Samsung is rolling out the One UI 7 update, which introduces features like “Live Notifications” and the “Now Bar,” reminiscent of the “Live Activities” feature that Apple has been enhancing for iPhones over the years. With the Galaxy S25 officially launched, Samsung confirms support for various applications, including Google Maps.
Apple’s Live Activities debuted a few years back to provide visibility of ongoing tasks directly on the lock screen and within the iPhone’s “Dynamic Island.” Although it took time for app developers to utilize this feature, it is now a highly valued tool on iOS, a capability that Android has been lacking until now.
With the introduction of One UI 7 and the Galaxy S25 series, Samsung is bringing its own version of “Live Notifications” and the “Now Bar,” mirroring the functionality found in Apple’s offerings.
The Now Bar appears on Samsung’s lock screen, displaying data from compatible apps even while the device remains locked. Certain features, such as media playback, can offer an expanded interface with controls accessible before unlocking the device, while others may show limited information and necessitate unlocking for further interaction.
Currently, Samsung is supporting eight different applications.
- Sports from Google
- Google Maps
- Samsung Health
- Interpreter
- Clock
- Voice Recorder
- Samsung Notes
- Emergency Sharing
During our hands-on session this week, we tested Google Maps, and it functioned flawlessly. While navigating, directions are displayed on the Now Bar on the lock screen and in the notification area as a Live Notification.
Interestingly, despite being in development for some time, Google Maps has yet to implement support for Live Activities on iPhones.
The UI for ongoing media playback will be available, and it’s notably similar to that of Apple’s interface.
In addition to the aforementioned features, Samsung will introduce the “Now Brief,” which will utilize the Now Bar but not the Live Notifications.
There’s speculation that Google is developing a comparable feature for Android 16, suggesting that this capability may eventually be available on Pixel and other Android devices. For now, it’s exclusive to Samsung devices running One UI 7.
The Galaxy S25 series is now available for pre-order at Samsung.com, featuring savings of up to $1,200, along with an additional $50 discount when you order through our links within 30 minutes.
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