Samsung One UI 7 Beta: User requests pour in for frosted glass effect, bolder status bar icons, and smoother animations

Samsung’s One UI 7 beta rollout has sparked both excitement and debate among users, with the tech giant unveiling new features alongside room for improvement. While features like the Now Bar and enhanced customization options steal the spotlight, users have made their preferences for additional changes loud and clear. Here’s what they want as One UI 7 continues its journey toward a stable release.

Frosted glass effect

A recurring demand from beta testers is the addition of a frosted glass effect for lock screen notifications. While the current translucent design is functional, users argue it fails to harmonize with the rest of Samsung’s sleek UI, particularly in terms of readability. A frosted effect, they believe, would elevate the experience, improving both visibility and aesthetics, especially against complex wallpapers.

Many testers have raised concerns that the lack of such refinement could make notifications harder to read, especially on bright or intricate backgrounds. They’re urging Samsung to embrace this effect across the lock screen, pop-ups, and even widgets for a unified visual appeal.

Bolder Wi-Fi and network status bar icons

Consistency is king, and users have zeroed in on the status bar icons, particularly Wi-Fi and network indicators. They find them thinner and less prominent compared to the bold battery icon, which feels out of place. The demand for thicker, modernized icons isn’t just about looks — it’s about creating a cohesive visual language. This relatively small tweak could make a significant difference in how users interact with their devices daily.

Smoother animations

Samsung’s animations have come a long way, but enthusiasts aren’t entirely sold on the beta’s app-opening effects. Testers are reminiscing about an internal version of One UI 7 with build number “XKN,” which featured smoother, more lifelike animations. The difference? A deceleration effect in app transitions that made interactions feel natural and in tune with real-world physics.

Current animations in the beta build “XKZ” feel stiffer in comparison, leaving testers longing for the elegance of the previous iteration. Samsung has a golden opportunity to refine its approach before the final release, and users are urging them to revisit the XKN animation style for inspiration.

Beyond these specific requests, users are advocating for a broader push toward improved consistency and usability. Suggestions include a larger clock area on the lock screen for better reachability and finer controls for animation speed. Many also hope to see new features like the depth effect for lock screen wallpapers — a feature that could rival Apple’s visual flair.

One UI 7 is still in its beta phase, meaning Samsung has ample opportunity to refine the software based on feedback. The company has a history of listening to its user base, and these requests show a passionate community eager to help shape the future of their devices. With the stable release expected in 2025, there’s plenty of time to polish these features and introduce new ones​.

For Samsung, the ball is in their court. For users, the beta is a chance to make their voices heard. Whether it’s frosted glass notifications or smoother animations, there’s no shortage of ideas to make One UI 7 a game-changer.