One UI 8.5 Beta Highlights Waning Emphasis on One-Handed Use
Samsung’s One UI was a game-changer when it launched in late 2018, primarily for its focus on improving one-handed usability on increasingly large smartphones. However, the latest One UI 8.5 beta reveals that this core principle seems to have taken a backseat. While the update brings some minor tweaks, it falls short of advancing the user experience in meaningful ways, particularly for those who value ease of use with one hand.
Minor Changes in One UI 8.5 and Their Limitations
One of the few adjustments in the One UI 8.5 beta is the repositioning of the search button within the Settings app. Previously located at the top right, the search function has now been moved to a bar at the bottom of the screen, which is more accessible for thumb reach. This change initially suggested Samsung might be extending this design philosophy to other native apps. Unfortunately, the rest of Samsung’s apps retain the search button in its traditional top position, creating inconsistency across the interface.
This inconsistency is puzzling, especially since many Samsung apps like the dialer, calendar, and gallery have ample space in their bottom navigation bars to accommodate a search button. The phone app, for instance, only features the keyboard, recents, and contacts in its bottom bar, while the calendar dedicates its entire bottom bar to event creation. This suggests there is room to improve one-handed usability further, but Samsung has yet to take that step.
Quick Settings Layout Still Not Optimised for One-Handed Use
Another area where One UI 8.5 falls short is the Quick Settings panel. Samsung has revamped this panel to be more customisable than ever, allowing users to resize toggles and adjust sliders. However, the edit, power, and settings buttons remain fixed at the top of the screen, making them harder to reach with one hand. By contrast, Google’s Android 16 Quick Settings places these buttons at the bottom right, which is more ergonomic.
Given Samsung’s efforts to let users move many other elements within the Quick Settings, it’s frustrating that these essential buttons remain immovable. As smartphones continue to grow in size, making such frequently used controls easier to access should be a priority, yet Samsung seems to have overlooked this in the latest beta.
The Legacy and Future of One UI’s Design Philosophy
When One UI first arrived, it was praised for its thoughtful design choices, such as over-scrolling and relocating key menus and buttons from the top to the bottom of the screen. These changes made navigating large devices much easier. However, after seven years and eight major releases, One UI’s progress in enhancing one-handed usability appears to have plateaued. While the interface has not deteriorated, it has not significantly improved either.
Samsung’s initial commitment to one-handed use was a defining feature that set One UI apart from other Android skins. Yet, with the latest beta, it feels like this focus has diminished. As phones grow larger, the need for software optimisations that facilitate one-handed operation becomes even more critical. Samsung’s decision to name its entire software experience after this concept underscores its importance, making the current lack of advancement all the more disappointing.
What to Expect Moving Forward
As the One UI 8.5 beta rolls out, it’s clear that Samsung has made only incremental changes to one-handed usability, leaving room for improvement in future updates. Users who value this feature will likely hope for a renewed focus on consistent and accessible UI elements across all Samsung apps. With the smartphone market continuing to evolve, it will be interesting to see if Samsung revisits the core principles that originally made One UI stand out.