One UI 8 to Launch with Enhanced Now Bar and Cover Screen App Support Features

Samsung’s recent Unpacked event showcased a dazzling array of foldable devices and wearables, including the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7, and Galaxy Watch 8 series. However, amidst the excitement of new hardware, a significant update has been announced: the Now Bar is finally receiving substantial third-party app support. The Now Bar is Samsung’s AI-driven widget designed to display live, relevant information on your device, such as sports scores and media playback, in a visually appealing format.

Previously, its functionality was limited, being predominantly confined to Samsung apps with occasional Google integration. That limitation is about to change. Samsung has revealed that the Now Bar is “now integrated with more third-party apps,” a promising development bolstered by the new Live Updates API introduced in Android 16.

First unveiled at Google I/O, this API allows apps to deliver real-time information directly to your lock screen or status bar. With this integration, the Now Bar is geared to provide immediate updates, enhancing its practicality. Beta tests have shown the revamped Now Bar in action, and many have expressed optimism that this update will finally make it a valuable feature.

Since its launch, users have often felt that the Now Bar failed to deliver on its potential, appearing as an aesthetically pleasing but functionally limited element. However, the addition of Live Updates suggests that it may soon fulfill its promise of delivering essential information precisely when you need it, without requiring any interaction. Additionally, Samsung is enhancing usability for foldable device users.

The Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Flip 7 FE’s cover screens will now support more full-fledged applications beyond just Samsung’s widgets. This shift mirrors the transformative experience pioneered by Motorola’s Razr series, potentially making Samsung’s foldable screens not just visually appealing but genuinely functional. These updates indicate a meaningful evolution in Samsung’s ecosystem, highlighting a movement away from its insular approach and toward a more collaborative integration with the broader Android community.