Samsung releases Android Pie-based One UI (beta) for Galaxy S9/S9+
What's the story
Days after announcing its latest Android Pie-based One UI interface, Samsung has kicked off the public beta program for the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+. One UI, which replaces Samsung Experience, focuses on single-handed usage and brings a host of new design and feature updates. Notably, the beta update is currently available in South Korea, US and Germany. Here's how to get One UI.
Process
How to join Open UI beta program and download update?
Firstly, download and sign in to Samsung Members app from either Galaxy Apps or Google Play Store (US residents need to download Samsung+ app). Now go to 'Notices' and select 'One UI Beta Program Registration' to complete and submit your application. If selected in the program, you'll be able to download the One UI beta update by going into Settings->Update Software->Download Updates Manually.
An overview
One UI: Reinvented one-hand user interface for the taller phones
Samsung claims its One UI is designed for "more natural and comfortable" intuitive UX as against Samsung Experience's UI that feels like a cluttered design. The new UI aims to offer one-handed usage by utilizing the upper part of the display for viewing while assigning the lower part for touch interaction - a design that makes sense on taller phones.
What's new?
One UI: A roundup of all the changes
One UI gets a bunch of changes to suit the viewing area and interactive area design that Samsung has adopted. Under the Clock App, tabs like Alarm, World Clock have been moved to the bottom. Similarly, pop-ups also appear at the bottom of the display. Notably, One UI also gets a system-wide night mode and a color-coded theme to match your smartphone.
Information
One UI will also introduce a revamped settings menu
With One UI, apart from the design aesthetics, Samsung is also simplifying the settings menu. Under the revamped menu, Samsung will group similar setting options together. This will basically make it easier for users to quickly browse and find what they are looking for.
Public release
These Samsung phones will get One UI update
Samsung will roll out the stable update to several of its smartphones. The Korean tech giant has confirmed that the update will be released for Galaxy S9, Galaxy S9+ and Galaxy Note 9 in January. Further, Samsung will also roll out One UI update to Galaxy S8, Galaxy S8+, and the Galaxy Note 8, but no specific timeline has been announced for these phones.