Samsung One UI 7 to Bring Large Folders: A Much-Awaited Feature

Over the past few weeks, several reports have been about the upcoming One UI 7 system. A recent report from Sammy Fans suggests that Samsung’s upcoming One UI 7 update, built on Android 15, will launch a feature known as Large Folders. This feature has long been in various rival Android interfaces. While regular folders have long been a part of Android’s home screen, Large Folders enhance user convenience. It allows quicker access to frequently used apps. This feature enables users to open apps directly with a single tap. It streamlines the app opening process compared to the standard folder method.

The Concept of Standard Folders

One UI allows users to group apps within folders on the home screen or app drawer. This keeps frequently used apps readily accessible while minimizing clutter. However, Large Folders take this a step further.

What Are Large Folders?

Phones running HarmonyOS and HyperOS, for instance, offer custom Large Folders that expand beyond the standard folder icon size. These Large Folders typically offer a 3×3 grid layout, allowing for direct access to eight apps with a single tap. The ninth slot displays a minimized icon which is for more apps within the folder. Tapping this minimized icon expands the Large Folder, revealing all the contained apps for easy selection. While specifics remain under wraps, leaks suggest One UI 7’s Large Folders will adopt similar functionality. Samsung might even introduce more upgrades specific to Galaxy devices. The question remains whether Large Folders will be included in the initial One UI 7 Beta or reserved for later builds.

Launch Timeline

Samsung’s One UI 7 Beta program is rumoured for an August launch, potentially followed by a stable rollout in late October after a Developer Conference unveiling. The Beta program is expected to be available in China, Germany, India, Poland, South Korea, the UK, and the US.

Comparing with Competitors

The addition of Large Folders, while not groundbreaking, represents a step towards user experience parity with competitor Android skins. Whether Samsung’s implementation offers any unique advantages over existing solutions remains to be seen.

User Benefits

Large Folders offer several key benefits for users:

1. Convenience: With a 3×3 grid layout, users can access up to eight apps with a single tap, reducing the need for scrolling.
2. Customization: Users can custom Large Folders to suit their needs, adding frequently used apps for quick access.
3. Organization: Large Folders help keep the home screen organized. It reduces clutter while keeping important apps readily accessible.

Samsung Large Folders may come with other upgrades like custom options to boost visuals.

Anticipated User Reception

The launch of Large Folders is likely to be well-received by users, mostly those who have been waiting for this feature. The convenience and organization offered by Large Folders will enhance the overall user experience.

For developers, the inclusion of Large Folders in One UI 7 gives new options. Apps that are frequently used and placed in Large Folders will benefit from increased visibility and accessibility.

As with any new feature, user feedback will play a crucial role in refining Large Folders. Samsung’s Beta program will provide a chance for users to test and provide feedback. It will allow the company to make changes and upgrades before the stable rollout.

Looking ahead, the launch of Large Folders could pave the way for other upgrades in One UI. Samsung’s commitment to improving user experience through thoughtful design and innovative features will likely continue to drive updates and improvements.

Other features to expect with the One UI 7 update

According to previous reports, the One UI 7 system will come with revamped album icons, enhanced quick settings, and optimized battery icons. Chun Bhai (@chunvn8888) also claims that this system will bring a new icon for the Gallery app, Galaxy Avatar and the new Samsung account intro.

One of the major changes in the Samsung One UI 7 is the repositioning of the search bar in the app drawer. According to leaked screenshots, the search bar has been moved to the bottom of the screen. This change makes it easier to use with one hand, a thoughtful adjustment for larger devices.

Another visually striking update in the Samsung One UI 7 is the new charging animation on the lock screen. Netizens have shared screenshots and videos of the new charging display effect, which adds a dynamic and engaging visual element to the lock screen. This feature not only looks good but also provides clear feedback on the charging status of the device.

Samsung has also tweaked the One UI Launcher to allow users to show or hide icon names on the home page. This option provides a cleaner look for those who prefer a minimalist home screen. Users who want more information at a glance can keep the icon names visible, offering flexibility to suit different preferences.

The Samsung Internet browser app is also getting a new icon, along with optimized font display effects. These changes aim to enhance the overall aesthetic and readability of the browser, making it more pleasant to use.

Conclusion

The rumoured introduction of Large Folders in Samsung’s One UI 7 is a welcome addition that will enhance the user experience. By offering a more convenient and organized way to access frequently used apps, Samsung is aligning with competitor Android skins while potentially introducing unique refinements. The anticipated August launch of the One UI 7 Beta program will provide users with an opportunity to test this feature and provide valuable feedback, paving the way for a stable rollout in late October. As Samsung continues to refine and innovate, users can look forward to more enhancements and improved functionality in future updates.