One UI Archives

AppWizard

May 18, 2026

After fixing a family friend’s phone, I realized Google Play Protect is not doing enough

An elderly relative and a friend were misled into downloading problematic apps due to deceptive advertisements that appeared as system notifications. These ads led users to the Play Store under false pretenses, resulting in the installation of apps that generated excessive ads and altered user interfaces. In one case, a user unknowingly installed a launcher app disguised as a messaging application, which compromised her device's functionality and privacy by requesting excessive permissions. Google Play Protect failed to identify the problematic app, which continued to generate ads even after its removal. The app's misleading title and vague description contributed to the confusion, highlighting the need for improved safeguards in the Play Store to protect less tech-savvy users.

AppWizard

May 15, 2026

One UI 9 makes it easier to spot sideloaded apps on your Galaxy phone

Samsung has begun the rollout of the One UI 9 beta for the Galaxy S26 series, featuring enhanced security measures. Key additions include the Auto Blocker with a security report feature and the reinstatement of USB connection blocking in Maximum restrictions mode. The beta version allows monitoring of "unknown" apps, alerting users to high-risk applications and blocking their execution and installation. Users can access the Manage unknown apps section in Settings to view and uninstall sideloaded applications from non-approved sources. This feature aims to improve user experience and security oversight, with expectations for inclusion in the stable release.

AppWizard

May 14, 2026

Samsung may be working on its most aggressive anti-distraction tool yet

Samsung is developing a feature for One UI 9 called “Network management for concentration,” which aims to help users manage distractions by controlling internet access for specific app categories, including Browser, Game, Social, Streaming, and Other. This feature is found in the hidden Connectivity Labs menu and allows users to restrict internet access without manual intervention. It includes a six-digit PIN system for security, ensuring only authorized users can modify settings, and features a “Downtime” mode to schedule automatic activation of restrictions. The feature is currently in the experimental phase, with its public release uncertain.

AppWizard

May 13, 2026

Samsung’s drawing app just got a big update on Galaxy devices

Samsung has released an update to the PENUP drawing app, now at version 3.9.22.23, which includes the following new features: - 53 new downloadable brushes. - Dual Brush Feature for combining two brush strokes. - Individual Brush Settings with organized access and preview options. - Export and Import Draft Options using the “.penup” extension for sharing incomplete drawings. - Auto Select Mode for the Lasso selection tool. - Automatic UI Rotation into landscape mode. - File Syncing across devices using a Samsung account. The update is available to all Galaxy device owners using the PENUP app, regardless of One UI version, and can be accessed through the Galaxy Store.

AppWizard

May 12, 2026

Samsung confirms Voice Recorder app bug on One UI 8.5, rolls out fix

Samsung's Voice Recorder app is experiencing a glitch on Galaxy devices, causing crashes when users attempt to summarize recordings that have been transcribed into text. This issue primarily affects devices running One UI 8.5 if the setting to “Process data only within the device” is activated. Samsung has acknowledged the problem and recommends users update the app to version v21.5.86.26 to restore functionality. Users can update the app through the Galaxy Store.

AppWizard

May 12, 2026

Samsung’s solution for apps with ‘excessive’ ads is rolling out now

Samsung's Device Care has introduced a new feature to block apps that generate excessive advertisements as part of the One UI 8.5 update. This feature includes two blocking options: a "basic" setting and an "intelligent" blocking feature that uses analytics to identify and manage ads. The rollout of One UI 8.5 began in the U.S. on May 11. The update version 13.8.80.7 includes the ad-blocking feature, which has been in development since December and may utilize AI to monitor ads across all installed applications. The update also brings AI call screening, enhanced editing tools, and minor user interface adjustments.

AppWizard

May 11, 2026

Samsung is cracking down on apps that spam your phone with ads

Samsung's Device Care app, version 13.8.80.7, introduces a feature to block applications that frequently send advertisement notifications. This feature allows users to place problematic apps into a "Deep Sleep" mode, silencing their notifications. Users can choose between Basic blocking, which uses internal data to restrict known ad-spamming apps, and Intelligent blocking, which analyzes notifications in real-time. The feature is currently available only for the Galaxy S26 series and can be monitored through the settings path: Settings -> Device care -> Care report -> Excessive alerts. The update is being rolled out in phases via the Galaxy Store.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

Samsung Driving Insights app could be the backseat driver no one asked for

A newly leaked build of Samsung's One UI 9 reveals an app called Driving Insights, which uses artificial intelligence to provide personalized feedback on driving habits. The app analyzes driving behaviors through location tracking and AI algorithms, generating weekly summaries for users. It assesses aspects such as speed and braking intensity, and activates when a phone connects to a vehicle's Bluetooth. Users can filter reports by time and distance, receiving feedback ranging from commendations to constructive advice. The app will also monitor rapid acceleration and sharp turns. Driving Insights aims to enhance driving practices, but raises concerns about the reliability of AI-generated advice in promoting safe driving.

AppWizard

May 1, 2026

Android 17 Tackles App Layout Issues on Foldables and Tablets

Google is enhancing app adaptability for larger devices with the upcoming release of Android 17, which aims to resolve issues with apps not adjusting layouts across different screen sizes. In previous versions, apps were limited by developer-defined rules, but Android 17 will override these settings for apps targeting API 37, allowing them to run in full-screen mode. Some exceptions may apply, particularly for gaming applications that require fixed screen ratios. The final version of Android 17 is expected to be released around mid-2026, with Samsung planning to launch its One UI 9 alongside new foldable devices.

Winsage

April 30, 2026

Samsung is reportedly ditching Windows on its Galaxy Book laptops

Samsung is reportedly considering moving away from Windows 11 for its upcoming Galaxy Book laptops, exploring the use of Android 17 and One UI 9 as the operating systems. The timeline for the launch of these Android-powered devices is uncertain and may coincide with Google's I/O developer conference, where Aluminium OS is expected to be unveiled. This potential shift is part of a broader trend in the laptop market, with companies reevaluating their strategies in response to changing consumer preferences and competition.