Google Maps' recent update for the Now Bar readies it for the broader deployment of One UI 7
Samsung's latest update, One UI 7, is bringing exciting changes to its Galaxy devices, with Google Maps playing a significant role in enhancing convenience and personalization.
According to Samsung's confirmation, One UI 7 will arrive on past-gen Galaxy S phones "imminently" following the launch of its latest flagship trio. One of the key features of this update is the integration of Google Maps, which is mainly achieved through AI-driven tools like the Now Brief and Now Bar.
The Now Brief helps users save preferred locations for commuting within Google Maps, making everyday travel more efficient. On the other hand, the Now Bar allows quick access to live information and app alerts without unlocking the device. This integration not only improves quick access but also provides personalized commuting support.
The Google Maps update, version 25.04.01.71725, has been discovered, adding support for glanceable navigation info on Samsung's Now Bar. Users with a Galaxy S24 (and likely those in the One UI 7 beta) can expect to see Google Maps appear in the Now Bar, showing brief information like the icon, distance to the next turn/destination, and an arrow for additional understanding.
Users can also have a larger navigation card on their home screen with the same information as the lock screen. A notable feature is that users can quickly exit Google Maps' navigation via the lock screen by tapping the button in the widget.
However, some users with a Galaxy S24 have reported that the update has been installed, but Maps is not functioning on the lock screen. Samsung is reportedly looking into these issues to ensure a smooth user experience.
The update has been reported to appear on a Galaxy S23, meaning it will likely see Maps on the Now Bar once the update drops. The expected launch date for One UI 7 on older smartphones is Q1 2025.
For users planning to purchase a Galaxy S25, they can look forward to Maps, sports, entertainment, fitness tracking, and more via the Now Bar out of the box. Samsung's Galaxy S25 Ultra is marketed as a "true AI companion," featuring the Now Bar and Now Brief for personalized entertainment suggestions.
In addition to Google Maps, Samsung's One UI 7 update has also improved its Game Booster mode with playback setting changes, FPS setting alterations, and more. The Beta 3 update, with a 1.2GB download size, also comes with a long list of bug fixes.
Samsung's One UI 7 beta has progressed, with users receiving Beta 3 early this month. The company's AI features are reportedly sitting pretty well with users in the One UI 7 beta, indicating a positive reception for these updates.
In summary, the One UI 7 update integrates Google Maps mainly through AI-driven features like Now Brief and Now Bar, improving quick access and personalized commuting support. The update is available for several Samsung devices, with One UI 7 rolled out to several devices and One UI 8 starting on newer phones since July 2025.
Smartphones like the Galaxy S24 and likely its past-gen counterparts will soon display brief Google Maps information on their Now Bar, thanks to the integration brought by Samsung's One UI 7 update. This innovation not only adds convenience to navigation but also personalizes the commuting experience for users.
