After days of eagerly refreshing the Software Update menu on my Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, I was thrilled to discover that the highly anticipated One UI 7 update was finally available on the morning of April 10. With excitement, I proceeded to install the update, curious to see how it would enhance my experience on this flagship device.
Samsung's One UI 7 software, built on Android 15, has proven to be a significant success on newer models like the Galaxy S25 Ultra. However, the question lingered: how would it perform on the Galaxy S24 Ultra? To my surprise, the update was modest in size and completed in under three minutes without any issues. The installation process was seamless, requiring navigation through a couple of setup screens, including access to Google Gemini and the new Galaxy AI features.
For those waiting for the One UI 7 update, I should note that I am using an unlocked Galaxy S24 Ultra in the U.K. Samsung seems to be staggering the rollout to ensure smooth performance. Interestingly, my Galaxy Z Flip 5 is still awaiting the update, despite being an unlocked device as well. Currently, there's no way to prompt the update other than checking the Software Update option under Settings until it arrives.
The size and speed of the update do not do justice to the plethora of new features and changes it brings. If you’ve followed our reviews of the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25 Plus, Galaxy S25 Ultra, and Galaxy A56, you know we hold One UI 7 in high regard, ranking it among the best interpretations of Android 15 on smartphones, rivaling OnePlus’s OxygenOS 15.
Given the substantial nature of the One UI 7 update, here are a few standout features you should try first:
Now BarThe Now Bar is a fantastic new feature that appears at the bottom of your lock screen. It provides real-time information along with quick access buttons for essential apps like Google Maps, Samsung Notes, and media playback. Its convenient position and functionality make it a delightful addition, though its current capabilities are somewhat limited.
New Lock Screen and Always-On Display StylesIn addition to the Now Bar, One UI 7 introduces various widgets under the Edit Lock Screen option. You can now customize your lock screen with widgets ranging from a voice recorder to a calendar. Furthermore, you can adjust the clock style, font size, weight, and colors to your liking. Don’t forget to explore the shortcut icons in the bottom corners, which can be modified to access any feature found in the Quick Settings menu.
Split Pull Down MenuThis feature is sure to spark discussion among users. The new split pull-down menu divides notifications and Quick Settings, with notifications on the left and settings on the right. Whether this layout works for you depends on personal preferences, including factors like muscle memory and hand size. Fortunately, it remains an optional feature.
New Photo FiltersOne of the highlights of One UI 7 is its extensive photo filters and editing suite. When editing photos in the Gallery app, users can choose from various new filters, each offering a unique aesthetic. What’s particularly impressive is the ability to customize each filter using slider bars, allowing for a satisfying and transformative editing experience.
This overview merely scratches the surface of what One UI 7 has to offer for the Galaxy S24 series. The smoothness of the interface, logical menu design, and plethora of new features significantly enhance the functionality of last year’s flagship phone. While it may not completely transform the device, it refreshes its feel, making it seem like a new phone altogether.
Moreover, this update provides a compelling reason for users to reconsider upgrading from the Galaxy S24 Ultra to the Galaxy S25 Ultra. However, it's worth noting that Samsung has withheld one feature: Now Brief. This much-publicized Galaxy AI feature, designed to help users organize their lives, is exclusive to the Galaxy S25 series. Its absence on the Galaxy S24 Ultra raises questions, especially since many other Galaxy AI features are available on the older hardware.
The decision to upgrade depends on your lifestyle. If your daily routine is busy and requires extensive organization through your phone, Now Brief could be a valuable asset. For those with a simpler lifestyle, the feature may not hold significant value. Regardless, the arrival of One UI 7 on the Galaxy S24 is a positive development, modernizing what was already a superb smartphone. Its comprehensive enhancements make it an excellent choice for users who want to keep their devices updated without feeling the need to upgrade.
