Samsung reveals first look at major Android revamp – and you can get it before everyone else

SAMSUNG has given its first official glimpse of the new Android revamp coming to Galaxy smartphones soon.

The tech giant’s own version of Android, called One UI, has packed in a load of fresh features for its big seventh release.

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And although One UI 7 isn’t widely available yet, you can opt to use it before anyone else as part of a new beta programme available in the UK and US, as well as Germany, India, Korea and Poland from today.

Samsung has developed greater personalisation and control in the free update.

The home screen has been simplified with less visual clutter, along with new look widgets and lock screen changes.

A new notification system has been introduced too, with a Now Bar at the bottom of the screen similar to iPhone’s Dynamic Island, which highlights activities from various features like Interpreter, Music, Recording and Stopwatch.

Samsung says the move will reduce the need to constantly unlock your device.

The firm has also boosted its AI efforts with improvements to the writing assist tools, as well as upgraded call features so conversations are automatically transcribed to refer to later, meaning you no longer need to rush to take notes.

Users will notice a revamp to the camera app too.

Modes have been reorganised to make it easier to find the features you need and to give you a clearer preview of the picture you’re taking or the video you’re recording.

Samsung’s security features have been enhanced with theft protection, auto Blocker and more.

Galaxy users can now take advantage of additional security measures in Identity Check, an opt-in feature designed for when a device’s PIN becomes compromised.

And when your device is in an unfamiliar location, biometric authentication will be required to make any changes to important security settings to avoid bank raiding attacks.

A new setting lets you block USB connections to prevent any other access through the USB port while the device is locked, except for battery charging.

Try the new Samsung Android update first

Galaxy S24 owners can try the new Samsung Android update first as part of the beta programme.

It’s available via the Samsung Members service.

But be warned, beta means that the new system is still in testing – which means you may encounter errors and bugs.