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One UI 7: Master the Now Bar and Explore Samsung Internet’s UI Overhaul

One UI 7: Master the Now Bar and Explore Samsung Internet’s UI Overhaul

Samsung's One UI 7 is bringing some exciting changes to Galaxy devices, but perhaps none are as immediately noticeable as the new Now Bar. This pill-shaped UI element aims to provide quick access to notifications and media controls, but not everyone is a fan. This article breaks down everything you need to know about the Now Bar, including how to disable it, and also previews the UI changes coming to the Samsung Internet Browser with One UI 8.

The Now Bar: Love it or Hate it

The Now Bar in One UI 7 is designed to enhance your Galaxy experience by offering quick access to notifications, information, and multimedia controls directly from the Always On Display (AOD), lock screen, and status bar. It's a dynamic feature aimed at streamlining interactions with your device.

However, Samsung understands that not every feature is for everyone. If you find the Now Bar distracting or simply not useful, you have options. Here's how to tailor the Now Bar to your preferences:

Turning Off the Now Bar

One of the great things about One UI 7 is the level of customization it provides. You can choose to disable the Now Bar entirely or selectively remove it from the AOD.

  • To remove the Now Bar from the AOD: Open Settings, tap Always On Display, and set the Show Now bar switch to OFF.
  • To disable the Now Bar completely: This requires turning off every Live notification category individually in Settings. There isn't a single universal toggle.

AOD Media Controls: A Killer Feature?

Despite some users' reservations about the Now Bar, it unlocks one genuinely useful feature: media playback control directly from the Always On Display. Double-tapping the media controls on the Now Bar allows you to skip or pause tracks without waking the screen. This feature works across a wide range of Galaxy devices running One UI 7, making it a compelling reason to keep the Now Bar enabled.

Samsung Internet Browser: A Glimpse into One UI 8

While One UI 7 is still relatively new, Samsung is already working on One UI 8 and significant changes are expected, especially for the Samsung Internet Browser. A recent leak showcasing a testing version of the app reveals a major UI overhaul.

Samsung Internet One UI 8 design changes
Samsung Internet One UI 8 design changes

Key changes include:

  • Dynamic Colors and Blur Effects: The redesign utilizes dynamic colors and blur effects for a more modern aesthetic.
  • Refreshed Layout: The home screen, icon customization, and menu interface have all been revamped.
  • Simplified Menus: Menus are cleaner and more intuitive, with key options highlighted.
    Samsung Internet Browser Menu
    Samsung Internet Browser Menu
  • Wallpaper Integration: The background now features a wallpaper, blending the browser seamlessly with your device's overall look.
    Samsung Internet One UI 8 design
    Samsung Internet One UI 8 design

These changes aim to provide a cleaner, more organized browsing experience. The Customize Menu is particularly noteworthy, offering a clearer separation of options and a more intuitive layout.

What do you think?

One UI 7 brings immediate changes with the Now Bar, while One UI 8 promises a significant visual upgrade to the Samsung Internet Browser. What are your thoughts on these updates? Do you find the Now Bar useful, or will you be disabling it? Are you excited about the potential UI changes in One UI 8? Share your opinions in the comments below!

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