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What you need to know
A recent discovery by an X user has unveiled that the new Google Maps update introduces enhanced support for glanceable navigation on Samsung’s Now Bar. Some Galaxy S24 users have reportedly encountered this feature within the One UI 7 beta, although it appears others are experiencing challenges. Google demonstrated various functionalities of Samsung’s Now Bar during the Unpacked event, including features related to news, sports, and navigation. Samsung has assured that the rollout of One UI 7 for older Galaxy S phones will occur “imminently” after launching its latest flagship models.
For those eagerly anticipating the One UI 7, the latest findings indicate a significant enhancement to one of Google’s popular applications.
As highlighted by Tarun Vats on X, Google Maps has received an update aimed at users of past-generation Galaxy devices in anticipation of the broader One UI 7 release (via 9to5Google). The update is labeled as version 25.04.01.71725 for Google Maps and enhances the Maps feature within One UI 7’s Now Bar and the “Live Activities” functionality.
The update indicates that users with a Galaxy S24, likely testing the One UI 7 beta, can expect to see navigation data from Maps integrated into the Now Bar. This feature will showcase brief information, including an icon for Maps, the distance to the next turn or destination, and a directional arrow for clarity. Additionally, users can swiftly exit Google Maps navigation via a simple action on the lock screen widget.
The Live Activities feature is represented by a small indicator at the top left of the home screen, showing users the distance and direction they should travel. Furthermore, a larger navigation card can now be viewed directly on the home screen, mirroring the information available on the lock screen.
Feedback on Vats’ thread highlighted that some users on Galaxy S23 devices have started seeing the update, suggesting the integration of Maps into the Now Bar will be rolled out widely as the updates become available. However, some Galaxy S24 users have reported that even with the update installed, the Maps functionality has not activated on the lock screen.
Google Maps v25.04.01.717254420 is rolling out live navigation in the Now Bar and Live Activities for devices on One UI 7. Works on S24 too! Repost pic.twitter.com/6XKVABfoOHJanuary 30, 2025
The integration of Google Maps with the Now Bar is not entirely new; a press release from the recent Unpacked event confirmed this collaboration. The latest Maps update extends compatibility to older Galaxy devices trialing the One UI 7 beta, while users who purchase a Galaxy S25 will find these features readily available upon unboxing. Additionally, Google confirmed that the Now Bar will facilitate access to news, allowing users to stay informed at a glance.
Samsung’s progress on One UI 7 has been notable, with users participating in the beta program recently receiving Beta 3. This update was a substantial one, totaling 1.2GB, and addressed numerous bugs while enhancing features like the Game Booster mode, which received various performance tweaks. Other quality-of-life improvements were also introduced to streamline the Quick Panel’s operations.
The South Korean manufacturer has announced that the rollout of the One UI 7 (Android 15) update for older Galaxy S smartphones is set to happen “imminently.” According to their recent blog post, the software is slated for a launch within the first quarter of 2025, following positive feedback from testers on several features, particularly the new AI functionalities.
A launch target in Q1 indicates a window between now and March, meaning the wait is minimal as Samsung continues to refine the software.
Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra has entered the market as what it calls a “true AI companion.” This device features a refreshed user interface and includes the Now Bar and Now Brief, designed to provide users with tailored entertainment recommendations directly on their smartphones.
Source
www.androidcentral.com