Samsung’s latest iteration of its smartphone interface, One UI 7 beta, has recently been the talk of the tech community, particularly with its debut on the Galaxy S24 series. As the new beta version rolls out, it brings with it a mix of enhancements and controversial changes, notably the removal of the popular lock screen widget carousel.
The One UI 7 beta introduces several key upgrades that aim to refine the user experience. A major change is the shift from a horizontal to a vertical app drawer, which simplifies navigation and makes the interface smoother. Additionally, the update includes the introduction of the Now Bar, which keeps users updated on live activities, and a redesigned Quick Settings panel, now detached from the notification shade for better accessibility.
Despite these improvements, Samsung seems to be taking a step back with the customization options available on the lock screen. Previously, users could tap the lock screen clock to access a full-sized widget carousel, featuring utilities like Weather, Calendar, and Digital Wellbeing. This feature provided not only convenience but also a way to personalize the lock screen extensively. However, in the latest One UI 7 beta, this option has been removed, leaving only mini widgets available below the clock.
Samsung’s Strategy vs. Google’s Approach
This change aligns Samsung’s interface more closely with Google’s own evolution in Android, which phased out native lock screen widgets after Android 5.0. Interestingly, while Samsung is reducing these features, Google is enhancing them in its latest Android updates. Android 15 QPR1 and QPR2 have reintroduced full-sized lock screen widgets, albeit primarily for tablets, showcasing a diverging approach to user interface design between the two tech giants.
For Galaxy enthusiasts who appreciate deeper customization, Samsung still offers a solution through its Good Lock’s LockStar module, which allows for the addition of any widget to the lock screen, maintaining a level of personalization despite the main UI’s limitations.
The Galaxy S24 Plus: A Blend of Power and Innovation
Amid these software updates, the Galaxy S24 Plus itself continues to impress with its robust features. The device boasts powerful performance, extended battery life, and a sophisticated triple-lens camera setup, all running on the latest Android operating system. This combination ensures a premium, high-quality experience for its users, affirming Samsung’s commitment to delivering top-tier technology.
As Samsung continues to refine its software, the One UI 7 beta reflects a balance between innovation and functionality. While some may miss the old features, the new enhancements in usability and system operations suggest a promising direction for the Galaxy series. Whether these changes will resonate positively with the Samsung community will depend on how they leverage the new features in their daily interactions with their devices.
