This is where the device’s user interface (UI) comes into play, with the experience of the users in interacting with it referred to as the user experience (UX). In 2018, Samsung introduced an improved version of its standard user interface and software overlay called ‘One UI’.

As well as working to make them intuitive, consistent, and effective, UX designers try to base user interface interactions on the way we use physical objects in the wider world to promote familiarity. For example, users turn a digital page in an e-book just like they would a physical page, or slide their cards up in the Samsung Pay app in a way that mimics how they would remove a card from their wallet. But what do UX designers do when there is no way to base interactions on real-world actions? Samsung Newsroom sat down with the designers of One UI to find out.

An Interface to Help You Stay on Task

The concept of One UI started with the idea to try and help the busy users of today stay focused by simplifying their interactions with their smartphones. One UI designer Soeyoun Yim explained that the process of designing the interface was undertaken based on the concept of ‘everyday simplicity’, saying that, “One UI was designed to help users focus on important tasks by eliminating distractions.”

Now, One UI has been further developed into ‘One UI 2’, which was unveiled at the end of last year. This upgraded interface incorporates the icons from One UI in new styles and configurations, and includes revamped colors and movements. In addition, One UI 2 makes the icons more conspicuous with distinct color tones and motions, for instance when the ‘settings’ icon trembles to let users know that an update is underway.

‘Simplicity’ – to Help You Focus on What Matters

Simplicity was the number one priority for the designers when developing One UI 2. To that end, the pop-up screens that appear at the top and bottom of the screen were made more compact and simplistic to keep users from getting distracted while making use of features.

The camera app has also been simplified to ensure that the basic operation of the app isn’t impeded, and prevent users from getting distracted while they’re taking their picture. Taehee Hwang, the UX designer responsible for the camera app, outlined how this makes the user experience more straightforward. “The basic photo and video modes can be accessed at the bottom of the screen, while special modes such as the Food and Night modes can be accessed by selecting or swiping through to ‘More’,” she related. “This simplifies what is displayed on the screen so that users can concentrate on taking their picture.”

‘Comfort’ – So Your Eyes and Fingers Can Take It Easy

Making user interactions more comfortable and facilitating one-handed use were also at the fore of the development of One UI 2. Whereas One UI designated the top and bottom sections of the screen as the ‘viewing’ and ‘interaction’ areas respectively, One UI 2 allows the majority of tasks to be completed within the lower area of the screen. Moreover, for actions that require interaction in the top part of the screen, unnecessary finger movements were minimized to improve comfort and convenience.

The same principles were applied to the keyboard, making it possible for users to perform other tasks while keeping their fingers within the keyboard area. For example, by long-pressing the space bar, users can now control the position of the cursor from within the keyboard window without having to interact with the main text body. In addition, users can swipe left or right with two fingers to undo and redo actions, and adjust the dimensions of their keyboard to better match the size of their hands.

The ‘dark mode’ feature has been shown to reduce eyestrain, and One UI 2 has expanded the number of apps within which it can be applied. “Dark mode has been expanded to a number of apps that it wasn’t previously accessible in,” said Yim, “To make it more comfortable to use devices in the dark we are also applying a darkening filter to background wallpaper displays.” Yim also spoke to the designers’ efforts to further ease eyestrain, relating that, “An algorithm has been incorporated that analyzes the background image on the lock screen and automatically shows the time in the color that will show up best against that backdrop.”

‘Convenience’ – Streamlining Rich Experiences

The ‘Single take’ feature comes with One UI 2 on the Galaxy S20 and is capable of using Ultra wide, Live focus, and short video features to deliver various photo styles and results, all with a single shot. “We started by asking ourselves two questions,” explained Hwang, “Firstly, how can we make sure the users enjoy the moment? And secondly, how can we deliver a variety of results without requiring the user to do more than take a simple, standard shot?”

While explaining what went into developing the feature, Hwang explained that, “Since this feature was to be introduced on the Galaxy S20, we decided that a help message should be displayed when the user entered Single take mode. Moreover, to allow the user to view a wide range of results simultaneously on the same screen we introduced a new kind of viewer.”

The video calling feature was also further upgraded with the integration of ‘Google Duo,’ Google’s simple, high-quality video calling app. Sueyeon Lee, the designer in charge of integrating Google Duo and One UI, elaborated on the designers’ efforts to improve convenience, saying, “Our goal was to make the user experience more convenient by making the features of Google Duo the default for Galaxy devices.”

Lee went on to highlight some other user experiences specific to Galaxy devices, remarking that, “5G video calls have been brought to smartphones for the first time with this integration, allowing users to experience FHD video calls and use AR emojis and wide screen mode within their video calls.” Lee finished by saying, “We will continue to develop advanced, integrated communication experiences linked to the phone, message and contact apps.”

The Galaxy Z Flip represents a totally new style of device with a revolutionary format. Thus, the question of how to provide top-tier usability and convenience on the new smartphone required the designers to think outside the box. Hyungwoo Shin, the designer responsible for developing the Galaxy Z Flip’s UI, outlined the development process, saying, “This is a whole new kind of device. We didn’t have access to any sample devices to which we could apply the new UI, so we had to print out screens, attach them to mock-up products and fold and unfold the devices to figure out how best to apply One UI.” In designing this special UI, the designers incorporated the ‘cover display’ aspect, which expands the interface onto the small screen on the outside of the phone that enables users to check the time, read notifications and take selfies when the phone is folded.

Special effort was put into developing the UI for the Galaxy Z Flip’s ‘Flex Mode,’ a feature that divides the screen into two halves when the phone is half-folded and set at a 90-degree angle. Shin explained how the design team catered to this unique form factor, saying that, “Designing a UI that would be suitable for a phone being used in Flex Mode presented a real challenge. We ended up creating a new layout that reflected the UIs seen on the foldable phones of the past.”

‘Accessibility’ – Fair and Available to Everyone

‘Accessibility’ means how easy to use and available a device’s features are to a wide range of users. The designers of One UI 2 worked to provide an equally accessible experience to everyone – regardless of age or disability – with features such as high contrast themes, which improve usability for visually impaired users. Samsung additionally consulted with differently-abled users to receive feedback on accessibility within the UI and to hear the users’ ideas on where there was room for improvement.

As a result, color adjustments and high-contrast features were implemented within the UI to expand usability to more differently-abled users. These changes also make it easier for users to access specialty features within the UI like Light Sensing, which detects nearby lights and informs the user of their status with vibrations, and Live Transcribe, which uses Bixby to transcribe audio messages and nearby noises.

One UI to Satisfy the Individual User

So, what’s next for the One UI design team? Since the first and second incarnations of One UI were about establishing the foundation of the interface, the next steps will focus on catering more to individual users. “Going forward, One UI will offer more customized content,” related Yim. “Active customization will be brought to bear to improve the individual user experience.”

As they continue their development work, the One UI designers will keep working to provide the best possible environment for Galaxy users, while ensuring that the interface is inclusive and makes inconvenience a thing of the past.

“Design” is a difficult word to define – it can encompass a range of meanings. Sometimes design is simply the shape of an object. At other times it is more abstract, like a user’s overall experience with a product. It can even be felt as an emotional resonance between the designer and the user.

Samsung Electronics designers take all these definitions into account when designing products. Their imaginations stretch from intangible elements, such as the UX (User Experience), to physical features, like the look and feel of the device.

Throughout the design process, all our designers have had a common goal in pursuing design that is “Inspired by humans, creating the future.” Samsung has long emphasized design as one of the company’s core assets, declaring 1996, “The year of the design revolution.” We want to tell a story about our philosophy and culture as well as our technology through our products, and to that end, we always put users at the center of design.

Designers meticulously designed the rounded edge of the Galaxy S10 to create a secure, comfortable grip. Galaxy S10’s new Infinity-O Display gives users a whole new experience when capturing footage or watching a video clip. Samsung’s One UI (User Interface) was devised to ensure consistent usability across all functions and services, allowing users to focus more on the important tasks. Designers carefully studied finger movements to ensure easy and fast access to key features of the device.

Change brings about new experiences. Not only does Samsung put users at the center of its design process, the company also deeply considers how to create meaningful change for users in their daily lives.

In 2019, millennials are the originators of social trends, and they value experiences over possessions. This generation boldly explores new discoveries and pursues individuality. Against this backdrop, we at Samsung are reaffirming our future direction, further committing ourselves to a user-centric design philosophy.

“Be Bold. Resonate with Soul.”

This motto illustrates our desire to nurture more compelling experiences and bring meaningful changes to users by creating bold and innovative designs. We aim to instill an authenticity and emotional resonance into our designs that permeates throughout people’s daily lives.

There are about 1,500 Samsung Electronics designers across the globe. These conscious pioneers will continue striving to make the world a better place as they design Samsung products, services, and technologies and deliver exciting experiences, meaningful stories and organic connections to users.

In light of modest global sales recently, some observers say that smartphone innovation has hit a bottleneck, as new devices bear more iterative upgrades instead of groundbreaking features. Others even predict that the smartphone era may be coming to an end soon.

But with mobile technologies like 5G, AI, and AR maturing rapidly, users will be able to do even more with their smartphones soon. Instead of losing relevance, the next wave of technological innovation will make the smartphone more central to our lives than ever before. Whether it’s leveraging increased connectivity or harnessing next-generation mobile intelligence, a larger display will be key to accessing future smartphone experiences.

Despite current trends, we are still living in a world where the size of the smartphone display can only be as large as the device itself. At Samsung, we began to ask ourselves how we can overcome this limitation and expand the possibilities of what users can accomplish on the go.

The Shape of Things to Come

Smartphone displays can’t get any larger without compromising portability – this was the orthodoxy for a long time.

Instead of accepting the status quo, resolving the contradiction between screen size and portability and developing a new form factor became the central focus of our innovation efforts.

The recent unveiling of the Infinity Flex Display at SDC 2018 signaled the start of this new chapter. But building a foldable device was no mean feat. After the prototypes of the flexible display debuted at CES in 2011, it took another seven years to perfect the technology and deliver a truly meaningful experience to users. From developing new materials to overcoming mechanical challenges, the foldable screen demanded a total reconfiguration of the smartphone from inside out.

Preparing for the New Era

We expect to see a sea change in the smartphone form factor in the coming years. From rollable and stretchable devices to the devices that can fold in multiple ways are no longer beyond the realms of reality. Samsung is ready to usher in this future and create meaningful experiences for consumers that help them do more of what they love.

To build the new foldable device, we made significant investments to create a new material that completely changes the anatomy of the smartphone display. We also created a natural and durable folding experience that users can appreciate from the very first time they unfold the device and crafted an innovative mechanical technology that can withstand hundreds of thousands of folds. We also had to rethink the placements of the battery, cooling system, and camera so that they can be placed inside the slim body efficiently. Last but not least, we developed an intuitive UX to ensure apps can transition seamlessly between the smaller and larger displays. We are committed to continue pushing the limits of possibility and lead the mobile industry into a new era.

Smartphone innovation is at the cusp of the next major transformation. The arrival of the Infinity Flex Display is just the beginning. We will continue pushing the limits of possibility and shape the future as it unfolds.

From touch-based controls to voice commands, Galaxy’s UX has continuously reinvented the way we interact with mobile devices. Building on a legacy of cutting-edge innovations, Samsung’s One UI promises to make the smartphone experience more flexible and responsive to our needs than ever before.

Take a look at the infographic below to learn more about the evolution of Galaxy’s UX.

Samsung Newsroom recently conducted a series of interviews with various members of the team behind the company’s latest flagship. Check out the roundup of quotes below to learn more about the insights that shaped the Galaxy S9.

Providing a Single, Intuitive Experience

“[When designing the Galaxy S9,] we focused on enhancing the end-to-end user experience. For the camera, that involved ensuring easy-to-use Super Slow-mo video functionality, with immediately accessible videos that could be directly uploaded to social media through one intuitive process.”

Encouraging Self-Expression with AR Emoji

“‘Communication’ today has come to mean ‘self-expression’. We wanted [the AR Emoji feature] to provide the most personal emojis possible, which would capture users’ individuality with innovative AR technology. The My Emoji feature, which resembles the user’s own facial features, allows users to communicate their emotions in a way that’s uniquely personalized.”

Utilizing the Camera to the Fullest

“We will continue to strive for perfect, professional-quality images. But more importantly, our aim is to make it easier for users to fully utilize our sophisticated camera technology. Our goal is to develop a camera that always produces the best pictures for all users, without requiring them to tinker with settings.”

Producing an Exclusive Sound Experience

“Samsung partnered with HARMAN and Dolby Atmos to craft speakers that are richly satisfying in both sound quality and volume. Through our extensive research and development process, we found that immersive sound can bring a whole new experience to smartphone users who frequently view premium content on their devices. The Galaxy S9’s speakers are the culmination of Samsung’s ongoing efforts to foster peerless multimedia experiences.”

Refining Design Based on User Feedback

“The Galaxy S8 was applauded for its smooth, continuous design. When developing the Galaxy S9, we listened closely to input from users on ways to make that design even better. We decided to adjust the placement of the fingerprint sensor and the side buttons, and made the barely there bezels even slimmer. To create a more seamless look, we crafted the bezels and screen in a deep black, which allows them to blend together nicely and helps conceal the iris sensor, and we also equipped the device with thicker, more durable glass.”

Developing an Efficient UX That Empowers
Users’ Self-Expression

“We designed the Galaxy S9’s UX (user experience) with an emphasis on efficiency, because the easier it is to manage your device, the better your experience will be. And because smartphones are a representation of the user’s personality, we strived to make the UX as customizable as possible in order to foster users’ creativity and self-expression – and that includes the device’s wide spectrum of sound effects.”

Partnering to Make AI More Convenient

“We’ve greatly enhanced Bixby through partnerships that have enabled customized services in different countries, and we’re constantly exploring new Bixby features that can help make people’s everyday lives easier.”

Redefining Smartphone ‘Satisfaction’

“The basic features of smartphones have been refined to the point that consumers are largely satisfied. What matters is not how diverse the features offered are, but whether each feature delivers a high level of satisfaction. At this point, we need to think about the next phase for smartphones, which will involve delivering innovations that really resonate with the new generation of users.”

Staying Ahead of the Game

“[Going forward,] it will be important to stay a step ahead in innovative features, as well as time them to the market appropriately to grab consumers’ attention. We plan to continue exploring dynamic visual features, in addition to working on integrating new technologies like AR (augmented reality) and AI (artificial intelligence) into our devices.”

Lock Screen and AOD

The lock screen is the part of the smartphone we interact with the most. It’s often one of the first things we see when we wake up and check throughout the day. Galaxy S9 and S9+’s lock screen features give you the best platform to tell your own story every day. With the video wallpaper function, you can customize the lock screen to play your favorite images to keep you inspired all day long. The feature even lets you transform your treasured Super Slow-mo videos into lock screen wallpapers. You can also try making the notification bars on the lock screen transparent to see all the things that matter to you more clearly.

Set your favorite Super Slow-mo moment as video wallpaper

Adjust the transparency of notifications in Lock Screen and Security under Settings

Whenever you need to read the time precisely, simply tap the clock on the lock screen and it will tell you the seconds as well as minutes and hours.

Change lock screen time format

Want to keep something that makes you smile close by? Pin one of 20 pre-loaded animated GIFs on your Always on Display so you can be greeted with a dash of delight whenever you check your phone.

How to pin animated GIFs on Always on Display

Edge

There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to find an app quickly only to forget which folder it’s in. The Edge function on the Galaxy S9 and S9+ solves this problem by giving you the option to store your favorite apps and contacts on the side of the Super AMOLED screen. Samsung has improved the function to facilitate quicker access. Simply drag and drop an icon from Apps Edge to a designated box for a pop-up view. The Edge function on Galaxy S9 and S9+ also allows you to quickly reply to messages in a pop-up window.

Drag and drop icons from Apps Edge for pop-up view

You can now switch between Apps Edge, People Edge and Smart Select with a simple swipe. People Edge allows you to easily call or message your frequent contacts, while Smart Select lets you capture an area of your screen as an image or animation.

Swipe to access Apps Edge, People Edge, and Smart Select

App Pair

We’ve all been there. Switching back and forth between different documents and apps to gather all the information while writing an email on the go. The time spent navigating multiple apps could make writing a simple message feel like running a marathon. With App Pair on Galaxy S9 and S9+, you’ll never find yourself in such a situation again. With just one touch, the function launches two apps simultaneously in Multi-Window mode. You can even place the customized App Pair icon on the home screen to ensure easy access all the time.

Create App Pair icons with these simple steps and place App Pair icons on home screen for quick access

Landscape Mode

Most multimedia contents are best experienced in landscape on the smartphone. Using the entirety of the screen, the experience becomes more immersive. But switching from a video stream to other tasks can be cumbersome at times, as the home screen is usually fixed in portrait – until now. The home screen of Galaxy S9 and S9+ can rotate to landscape automatically, which means you don’t have to physically change the phone’s position whenever you transition between multimedia contents and other tasks.

How to enable Landscape Mode

Dedicated Fingerprint

Our phones often hold highly personal information. While it’s important to have such data locked away securely, efficient authentication is equally crucial. Galaxy S9 and S9+ strike the perfect balance between security and usability with Dedicated Fingerprint. The function lets you register two fingerprints to unlock the phone. Your normal fingerprint takes you to the home screen while your dedicated fingerprint gives you access to the Secure Folder directly from the lock screen.

Use Dedicated Fingerprint to securely access personal information

Take the Galaxy S8 and S8+. When designing its latest flagships, Samsung went to great lengths to ensure that the UX behind their groundbreaking, bezel-less designs would foster convenient and intuitive interactions. The result of the company’s efforts is a seamless interface that allows users to navigate the devices’ immersive displays with ease and take full advantage of their powerful features.

The tips and functions outlined below offer simple ways for users to further amplify their Galaxy S8’s convenience and get more out of their smartphone experience.

Get to Know the Navigation Bar

The navigation bar that houses the Galaxy S8’s Home, Back and Recents buttons has a few tricks up its sleeve, including allowing users to bypass their device’s Lock screen and instantly access the Home screen.

After activating the Unlock with Home button feature via Settings > Display > Navigation bar, a hard press of the square Home button from the Always On Display will unlock the device (a swiping motion is not required), while a double-tap will pull up the lock screen. The navigation bar’s settings also allow users to customize the Home button’s sensitivity to avoid unwanted presses.

Users may hide the navigation bar in apps where it does not automatically disappear or fix it to their screen by toggling the Show and Hide button, which appears on the bar’s far left side. The bar’s configuration may also be customized.

Using certain apps and functions may cause the navigation bar to disappear entirely. In those instances, users may navigate back to the Home screen by hard-pressing on the Home button’s usual location, and may access the navigation bar by swiping up from the bottom of the screen.

Take Advantage of the Edge Screen

The Edge panels in the Galaxy S8’s Edge screen offer access to apps, news and key functions with a simple swipe of the side of the screen. Users may customize their Edge panel selection and add more apps and shortcuts that work for them.

The Edge screen’s Edge lighting feature adds additional convenience, notifying users of incoming messages by illuminating the Infinity Display’s edges. This allows notifications to be visible even when the device is facing down, and creates an intuitive means to notify users of messages without disrupting their enjoyment of videos, games and apps.

Users may access the Edge screen’s settings by tapping Settings > Display > Edge screen.

Create Convenient Reminders

Find an interesting article that you’d like to get back to later? The Galaxy S8 allows users to conveniently save URLs using its Reminder function.

With the website pulled up, simply access your browser’s sharing options and tap on the Reminder icon. Webpage URLs are automatically saved, and users may additionally select exactly when they’d like to receive their notification.

The Galaxy S8 also allows users to create reminders based on texts. When viewing a conversation in the Messages app, long-press your selected message until the Message options menu appears and choose Send to Reminder. The message will automatically be saved to the Reminder app, and you’ll also be able to specify if/when you would like the reminder to appear.

In addition, the Galaxy S8 allows users to pin reminders to its Always On Display, making them visible at all times. To do so, open the Reminder app, tap on the reminder that you would like to display and select Pin to Always On Display.

Power Button and Sensor Shortcuts

Sometimes taking the perfect photo requires one to be quick on the draw with their camera.

To help users capture more of their special moments, the Galaxy S8’s camera launches instantly with a double-press of the power key. The camera’s zoom function is similarly seamless, allowing users to easily zoom in or out by dragging the white shutter button to the right or left.

In addition to unlocking the device, the Galaxy S8’s fingerprint sensor allows users to open apps and manage key functions. A simple swipe down or up will show or hide the notification panel, while swiping up on the sensor from the Home screen will launch the Samsung Pay app. The function may be found under Settings > Advanced features > Finger sensor gestures.

In a meeting and can’t answer the phone? With the Galaxy S8, you can politely decline incoming calls with preset text messages.

The Quick Reply feature activates with a two-second touch of the device’s heart-rate sensor and allows users to send a customized response that suits their needs. The function may be found under Settings > Display > Edge screen > Edge lighting > More Options > Quick reply.

Step Up Your Screenshot Game

The Galaxy S8 allows users to snap quick screenshots via a variety of convenient ways.

Users have the option to press and hold the ‘volume down’ and power buttons simultaneously, swipe the screen from one side to the other with the side of their palm, or utilize the Galaxy S8’s Smart Select feature, which is found via the Edge screen and allows you to select an area of the display to capture as an image or GIF.

Located under Settings > Advanced features > Smart capture, scroll capture is another useful option that’s designed to help users snap more complete screenshots. The function appears after a screenshot has been taken and allows for all of an app or page’s scrollable content to be included in the image.

Get More Done with Snap Window

The Galaxy S8’s new Snap Window feature allows users to select a portion of the most recently opened app to pin to the top of their screen.

This means that, for instance, a user may keep an eye on a video or constantly updated content such as stock prices and headlines via the top of their screen while using the remainder of the display to send an email, browse the web or manage other apps.

Activate the feature by pulling up your recent apps and tapping on the function’s corresponding button.

A Fun Way to Unlock Your Phone

After registering their irises for biometric verification, Galaxy S8 users have the option to select a fun mask or background to display when the security feature is activated.

Available designs may be found under Settings > Lock screen and security > Iris scanner > Preview screen mask.

Sharing Links with Samsung Cloud

Samsung Cloud offers users an effortless means to share large video clips and reams of pictures by creating a URL that lets others access your shared media.

The function maintains full picture quality and supports files of up to 1GB in size. Users may save up to 2GB of content per day. After two days, the files are deleted from Samsung’s servers.

To utilize the feature, select the photo or video that you would like to share in the Gallery app, tap Share and choose Link Sharing. The subsequent screen will allow you to select the app you would like to use to send your link.

Users may also provide others with access to shared content by sending a code. Those who receive the code will be able to punch it in to Samsung’s Link Sharing app and instantly view and download the shared files.

Members of the Samsung Mobile UX Innovation Team discuss with Samsung Newsroom the concept, the improvements and the inspiration of the Galaxy S8’s UX.

Q. What is the overall concept of the Galaxy S8 UX?

Joan Park: The overall concept of the Galaxy S8’s UX is ‘New Rhythm.’ The word ‘rhythm’ is derived from the PIE root ‘sreu,’ meaning ‘to flow.’ We chose this concept to introduce new services and functions through the smartphone’s UX and to enhance the flow of user interactions to better fit the way people use their phones today. Like the design of the device itself, the UX is seamless, unifying both visual and audio components to establish one continuous experience.

Q. How was this concept applied to the phone’s visual language?

Joan Park: The Infinity Wallpaper of the customizable Always On Display complements the color of the phone and makes use of the captivating Infinity Display to visually immerse the user. Its eye-catching aesthetic transitions smoothly to the Lock, Home and Apps screens for an added effect.

Seockhyun Yu: We applied similar dynamic effects to other apps to not only create a fun and immersive experience, but to ensure that users could intuitively use the device, guided by visual interaction. For example, users can easily zoom in and out on the Camera app by sliding the shutter button rather than using a pinch-zoom gesture. Also, when making or receiving a call, the color scheme is extracted from the contact’s picture and is displayed as the background in a gradient form.

Heekyung Deon: Even the phone’s icons and typography incorporate the Galaxy S8’s design language through a series of continuous curves and lines – an aesthetic inspired by a ‘Light & Line’ concept that is drastically different from previous Galaxy models. By cutting certain parts of the icons’ lines, we replicated a play of light and shadow that can be observed in everyday life. The result is a design that is systematic but also unique.

Q. What were the changes made to the phone’s audio language?

Josh Youn: We wanted to complete the user experience through the musical interpretation of the Galaxy S8’s visual experience and overall aesthetic. Therefore, the essence of the phone’s visual language was injected into the Galaxy S8’s brand sound “Over the Horizon.” The latest version of the song aims to manifest the yearnings and changes of our current age, appealing especially to the millennial generation.

The phone’s ringtones have also been updated to better harmonize with the icons, wallpaper and exterior design of the device. Furthermore, five new vibration patterns that differ in strength, length and frequency have been added.

Q. What is the biggest difference in the Galaxy S8’s UX compared to the previous model?

Seungwook Nam: Perhaps the most noticeable difference in design is the considerably larger display. To create this expanded screen space, visually obtrusive elements were minimized, and the home key was embedded underneath the screen. We needed to make sure, however, that this alteration did not create any inconveniences for the user.

So, to ensure they could use their phones in a familiar way, we made it so that the ‘invisible’ home button would function in the way a typical home key would. Furthermore, when watching videos or playing games, users simply need to press and hold the location where the home button would normally be to activate its functionality, rather than pulling up a navigational menu, like some other smartphones require users to do.

Q. What improvements have been made to the Galaxy S8’s edge screen?

July Baek: With the Galaxy S8, we’ve made two major changes to the edge UX to enhance usability and allow users to do more, right from the edge screen. First, we added a new Edge lighting feature, which illuminates the edges of the smartphone when the user receives a notification to create a fuller experience. We also provided a notification preview function to alert users of incoming calls or messages while minimizing screen distractions so they can stay focused on their movie or game.

Secondly, we expanded the edge panel through the addition of Clipboard edge, Device maintenance, Smart select and Reminder panels to facilitate the user experience. The Clipboard edge panel, for example, can be accessed when using an app, without having to navigate between windows to access saved images or text.

Q. How has the Always on Display been updated?

Hayoung Kim: We also added FaceWidgets to the Always On Display. By double tapping the clock, users can scroll through these widgets to quickly control music playback, view their schedule and check upcoming alarms. Furthermore, users can customize their Always On Display screen with memos and to-do lists via the Pin to Always On Display function via the Reminder app.

Q. How would you define the perfect UX?

Junwon Jung: A good UX is not only appealing to the eye, but is also easy and fun to navigate, and built with comprehensive features. Furthermore, a UX isn’t simply what appears on the screen – it’s a continuous stream of use. Therefore, all of its elements must work harmoniously.

That’s why “perfect” is not a completed state but rather a process. Samsung’s UX designers are continuously working to understand what users want so that we can achieve a UX that’s as close to perfect as possible.

Q. Where does the UX team get their inspiration?

Hyunkyoung Kim: We are continuously listening to fellow employees’ ideas and keeping an eye on various blogs to better understand the current needs in the market. We also look at user reviews of previous products to make improvements on future models.

For example, the Samsung Connect feature that allowed users to play TV audio from their smartphone could previously only be activated when the Galaxy S7 was connected to a pair of earphones. But, after reviewing user feedback, we designed the Galaxy S8 so that it can play TV audio via its built-in speaker.

Through continuous brainstorming with related divisions and departments, we are always working to create innovative functions that add to the user experience. It’s very satisfying to receive positive user feedback regarding the newly applied features born from our efforts.

Home Screen

The Chinese edition of the Galaxy S8 lets users check the weather at a glance, quickly access five default apps and conveniently browse their other apps, right from the Home screen. They also have the option to use the standard Galaxy S8 Home screen arrangement, which features a vertical swiping interface to navigate between the Home and Apps screens.

Home screen (two on the left), Vertical Swiping Interface (two on the right)

Interactive Services

Chinese consumers frequently use their mobile devices to do tasks that have traditionally been done offline, like purchasing movie tickets, making a doctor’s appointment and booking train tickets. The Chinese-exclusive Samsung Assistant app and Yellow Page, a service accessible via a tab in the Phone app, along with the Messages app together help to facilitate transactions such as these.

Through Samsung Assistant and Yellow Page, users can browse for companies or services. After making a purchase or request, such as booking a train ticket, Samsung Assistant provides related information like traffic delays and reminders such as imminent departure times.

The Messages app, meanwhile, extracts and displays these notifications separately, and categorizes them for easier navigation.

Samsung Assistant (left: landing page, center: ticket purchasing page, right: reminder card)

Yellow Page (left), Messages (center and right)

Calendar

Users can simultaneously view both solar and lunar calendars via the Calendar app. The Galaxy S8 also offers a subscribable calendar that gives users the option of being notified about various events going on around them.

Camera

The Camera and Image editor apps are loaded with approximately 40 stamps designed especially for the Chinese market.

Smart Manager

Smart Manager features three additional Chinese-exclusive functions to enhance the mobile experience. Mobile Data lets users automatically purchase additional data; App Management gives users more control over their apps; and Blocked Calls and Messages enables users to block spam calls, including robocalls and telemarketing calls, and messages.

Samsung Health

Samsung Health provides China-specific information such as health-related events, as well as drug and clinic information.

Apps

Samsung collaborated with its Chinese partners to provide the best in entertainment via its Samsung Music and Samsung Video apps. In addition, S Roaming lets users easily and affordably use and manage data roaming services when traveling internationally.

Additional Features

A Chinese-language input tool facilitates seamless Chinese input functionality. Through Samsung’s partnership with Sougou, a leading Chinese search engine, this feature is continuously being improved. The Chinese model of the Galaxy S8 also boasts a screen recorder function.

Superior Images, No Matter the Conditions

Lighting and subject movement are two factors that greatly influence the outcome of a photograph. But in the real world, these conditions are not always ideal for taking pictures. The Galaxy S8, however, is embedded with sophisticated multi-frame image processing to ensure bright and clear photographs in nearly every environment.

With this technology, the camera takes three photos – instead of just one – then selects the clearest image and uses the other two to reduce the blur. By imposing the three images on top of one another, the resulting photograph is highly detailed with clearer contours. This even applies to images captured in less-than-ideal conditions, such as when zoomed-in in low light. Furthermore, the camera can capture and process the image so quickly that users cannot tell the difference between it and conventional smartphone cameras.

The phone’s 12MP F1.7 autofocus rear camera utilizes the same great Dual Pixel image sensor that was first introduced to the smartphone market with the Samsung Galaxy S7. With Dual Pixel technology, every single pixel enables precise and fast focusing, much in the same way that the human eye does. By splitting all of the camera’s pixels into two photodiodes for on-chip phase detection, the technology enables vastly improved autofocus performance, even in low light.

The 8MP F1.7 smart autofocus front camera has also been improved from the 5MP F1.7 front camera of the Galaxy S7. Until now, the front camera, which is most often used for taking selfies, was programmed to provide a fixed focus based on the average arm length of users. However, that distance has expanded with the proliferation of the selfie stick and other accessories.

Therefore, the Galaxy S8’s front camera has been equipped with autofocus features and facial recognition technology so it can better recognize and track faces, even when the distance between the camera and the subjects in the photo is increased. The result is superior selfie quality with a clearer, more detailed picture.

Filters and Stickers for Added Fun

As smartphone camera use has become more widespread, so too has the popularity of camera apps that let users apply various effects to add a bit of fun to their photographs. The Galaxy S8 gives users the option to use photo filters, stickers and stamps in the same way as these popular apps.

With a simple, convenient filter setting, users can let their creativity run wild by choosing from a collection of 16 filters, including eight beauty filters. Or, they can let the camera do the work for them via the Auto Filter feature, which automatically applies a filter optimized for the photo. Filters can be previewed before finalizing the edits.

Users can also choose from a selection of 34 stickers and 50 stamps to add to their photos, right from the native Camera app. The camera’s facial recognition technology can instantly apply static and animated facial feature stickers on the subject when in Camera or Video mode. New stickers and stamps will continue to be added in the future.

One-Handed Control

With the Galaxy S8’s enhanced UX, capturing life’s special moments has never been easier. Even with the phone’s large display, users can effortlessly launch and control the camera app with one hand.

A swipe right triggers shooting mode, while swiping left opens filter settings for convenient editing. Swiping up or down lets users effortlessly switch back and forth between the phone’s front and rear cameras. The camera’s zoom function has also been simplified and can be controlled by moving the shutter button to the right or left with one hand.

With advanced photo processing, fun new features and a convenient UX, the Galaxy S8 delivers on Samsung’s heritage of offering best-in-class Galaxy technology.

Tizen’s SDK will be making a new start as Tizen Studio 1.0 on September 1, 2016.

Installing the new Tizen Studio allows developers to select necessary platforms and profiles. It will also allow developers to experience a fast and stable development environment, as well as a new UX and UI.

Applications for the recently released Gear S3 can be developed using Tizen Studio 1.0.

The existing Tizen SDK was released in accordance with the Tizen platform. Since there was an SDK program for each platform, this meant developers had to install several SDK programs if they wished to develop for several platforms. Therefore, it was often difficult for some to maintain, and managing related updates was also time-consuming.

Accordingly, following the release of the Tizen 2.4 SDK, attempts were made to integrate the whole process. Starting with Tizen Studio 1.0, users can select and install necessary platforms and profiles with a one-time installation. In addition, Tizen Studio has been made stable and lightweight through a platform version-up, and its usability has been improved through the overall improvement of both its UX and its UI.

From now on, version control will be used separately for the Tizen platform and Tizen SDK, and Tizen Studio can be downloaded from the Tizen Developer site (developer.tizen.org).

Improved Development Environment in Tizen Studio 1.0

1. Launching tools: Installer, Uninstaller, and Package Manager

While the old Tizen SDK involved a lot of unnecessary information and difficult error handling, the new Tizen Studio environment only conveys information necessary for easy development.

The information structure that made it difficult (beginning with the installation process) has been simplified, and heavy graphics have been scaled down.

2. Developing tools: IDE perspective theme, Project Wizard, Certificate Manager, and Menu and tool icons

Before the improvement, application development and testing were possible only after a seven-step certification process. After this, developers also needed to go through an additional Samsung certification process. With the new Tizen Studio, however, applications can be developed and tested without additional certification. A Samsung Certificate menu has also been integrated in the Certificate Manager section.

3. UI tools: UI Builder, Component Designer, and EDC Editor

 Before the new improvements, usability was low since each UI tool had a different UX. With the new Tizen Studio, however, consistent UX and GUI have now been applied. Features have also been rearranged in order of common usage, allowing UI applications be developed easily, based on WYSIWYG.

4. Testing tools: Emulator

 Before Tizen Studio, complex menu names and screen layouts in the previous SDK incarnation made it difficult for users to understand the emulator environment. In the new Tizen Studio, a consistent UX has been applied, a device template feature has been added and the filter feature for each profile has been improved.

5. Testing tools: Dynamic Analyzer

The layout of each feature has been improved and the graphic elements have been redefined. In addition, the layout scalability has been secured for new features (such as memory profiling and CLI).

Other improvements in Tizen application development environment

With the release of Tizen Studio 1.0, Tizen has reinforced its developer site content, improved its search engine, added 50 new improved-quality sample applications and enhanced its existing sample applications.

Tizen continues to strive to provide an application development environment that satisfies the needs of developers as the platform continues to evolve.

One of the most defining characteristics of the Galaxy Note series is the analog relationship it establishes with its users. Furthermore, its signature S Pen enables them to make a physical connection with the device—an attribute that sets it apart from other smartphones.

When designing the Galaxy Note7, Samsung designers spent a great amount of time outside the  studio to examine how users interacted with and used their mobile devices on a daily basis.

Rather than using the traditional visually-led approach, they focused on the experience of interacting with the phone’s physical qualities. These efforts allowed them to create the Galaxy Note7, combining innovation and technology with a more user-focused approach.

As a result, the Galaxy Note7 is perfectly symmetrical, merging form and function to provide the comfort, convenience and grip that enable users to do more and get more out of their smartphone. Likewise, Samsung has refined the device’s UX to provide a seamless interaction between the user and the device.

New Curves, Carefully Refined Details

The Galaxy Note7 is the first in the Galaxy Note series to boast a dual-edge display—an addition that stays true to Samsung’s design heritage. To incorporate this elegant aesthetic, Samsung had to find a way to maintain a flat screen surface for writing, while also ensuring enough space for storing the S Pen.

For those reasons, the subtle curves like those on the Galaxy S smartphones wouldn’t suffice. Therefore, Samsung carried out the most advanced 3D thermoforming process ever attempted on a phone to create extremely steep curves with a tighter radius at the very outer edges of the glass so not a single millimeter of writing space would be wasted.

Samsung applied the same radius to the device’s edges on both the front and back of the Galaxy Note7, a different approach than the one used on the Galaxy Note5, which also featured a curved design. This resulted in a device that is perfectly symmetrical—from top to bottom, side to side, and front to back.

To complete the balance, the glass and metal parts of the phone were fused together to allow for a more seamless and even surface. In fact, there are no edges or unnecessary surface protrusions between the different materials. The camera protrusion was also greatly minimized, making the device even easier on the eyes and smoother to the touch. These changes provide a more natural feel in the hand.

An Enhanced Look and Feel

The dimensions of the Galaxy Note7 are also different than those of the previous model. It is now more compact in size with a narrow body, but boasts the same large 5.7-inch screen with a bezel less than half the size of the Galaxy Note5.

Despite the addition of the Galaxy Note7’s iris camera and IR LED sensor, the device’s slim upper bezel is maintained thanks to the new technology.

In addition, the Galaxy Note7’s touch sensor is directly printed on the display panel. The device is also lighter than its predecessor, in spite of its larger battery.

These factors, along with the smartphone’s new dual-edge display and symmetrical design, make for a much better grip. Never before has a Galaxy Note been so easy to hold and operate in one hand.

With a new color offering, the Galaxy Note7 also has a premium look that fits almost any style. Blue Coral, the new hue, follows this year’s color trends, which are less vivid and more tranquil, and is also in line with the phone’s design concept of balance.

Although Blue Coral is beautiful on its own, Samsung, for the first time, decided to create a separate color for the phone’s metallic frame. The resulting color combination is both stunning and calming.

The three existing variants—Black Onyx, Gold Platinum and Silver Titanium—are also available. As a bonus, interactive wallpapers that complement each color have been added.

Strong and Sturdy

Despite its beautiful aesthetic, thanks to its Aluminum 7000 Series metal, the Galaxy Note7 is 1.3 times stronger and 1.2 times more scratch resistant than the metal used on the Galaxy S7.

Also integrated into the design is Corning® Gorilla® Glass5, which has an extremely high resistance to scratches and damages. This new glass is designed to provide further protection against breakage from everyday drops. So much so that in rigorous lab tests, it survived drops onto rough, unforgiving surfaces up to four times better than competitive glass designs.

As the first Note model to be IP68 certified, the entire phone (including the S Pen) is water and dust resistant. As a result, the Galaxy Note7 is now further protected from spills, and can be used in wet environments—even underwater.*

Pure and Simple

Samsung made subtle yet impactful enhancements to the user interface of the Galaxy Note7 to create a more natural, frictionless user experience.

First, the colors, shapes and overall design of the graphical user interface were simplified for a more orderly aesthetic, while the focus was shifted to function, information and content. To enhance consistency, Samsung made the icons uniformly rounded, while simultaneously softening their colors.

The most noticeable changes to the UX, however, are in the Settings and Quick Panel menus, which consist of much simpler graphical interfaces. Here, the menu trees and categories have been simplified* so that tasks can be completed in less steps, with fewer taps.

Finally, the number of Task edge features has increased. Now, users can do even more, such as record an exercise in S Health, create a drawing or view unread emails from the edge of their device.

Thanks to its refined design and outstanding durability, the comfort and convenience of the Galaxy Note7 are unsurpassed. Furthermore, its streamlined and intuitive UX provides the seamless experience that users have come to expect. Pushing the boundaries of design, the Galaxy Note7 features true craftsmanship and industry-leading innovation.

For more product information, please visit www.samsung.com/galaxy

*Dust and water resistance based on IP68 rating, which tests submersion up to 5 feet for up to 30 minutes.

**All functionality features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

Yoojin Hong, Vice President of the User Experience Design Team, Mobile Communications Business, explains why and how Samsung made these updates possible.

Q. In such a dynamically changing environment, how is Samsung changing its approach to user experience?

Today, there are two aspects that directly impact the way we approach user experience design: first is the evolution of software, and second is the user experience as part of the software creation process.

In terms of software evolution, unlike feature phones, most devices now include modern software such as Android or tizen that can be updated and evolve. This means the product’s user experience constantly changes as software updates are released that evolve the product into something better. While beta testing for some service or application is generally the fastest way to get a product on the market earlier, user experience cannot be beta. This is the challenge for most Samsung user experience designers. It must be complete and left to evolve on existing and future hardware for at least two to three years.

Second is the need to streamline the software creation process. At Samsung we realized the shortcomings of the traditional software design process where design and testing were done in fairly sequential and separated steps. Now, to meet users’ dynamic needs, we have adopted an agile development mentality to ensure we release better products faster. For instance, last year we launched a beta program to beta test the latest updates for the Android Marshmallow. Through this process, we listened directly to the feedback of our users and adapted their feedback to the official release version.

The amazing thing about Samsung is we are not afraid to change, and can move forward at the speed of technology once the strategy is set.

Q. What do you think most defines Samsung’s approach to user experience? What makes it unique?

Samsung is unique in that we not only design and develop our products and services, but we have the expertise and capability to manufacture these things in-house. The speed at which we develop hardware and software, as well as our range of products, is unique. Ultimately it is the optimization and evolution of hardware, software and user experience design that makes us unique from everyone else.

Q. What was the key insight that allowed Samsung to come up with the Gear S2’s user experience?

We wanted to make a watch – an everyday casual watch – rather than a smart device. The watch just happened to be smart. This was a very important principle in the design of the UX, and every design decision at Samsung.

For example: We debated a lot whether it should have touch interaction. Some argued that touch is the most intuitive and would carry on the smartphone experience. But we reminded ourselves that we are not making a mini-smartphone for the wrist. It’s a watch. Therefore it was a natural decision to use a familiar rotating bezel for the most common tasks: navigating and scrolling.

Q. Why did you select a circular design for the Gear S2?

Most real watches are circular in shape. It allows for better watch designs and forces you to focus on one thing at a time. By the very nature of the shape, a circle lets you focus on one thing while a rectangle lets you read from top to bottom or from left to right. It’s the perfect shape for users to ‘glance’ at the information quickly, not to ‘read it thoroughly’.

However, we found that there is a lot less real estate with a circle display. We were all used to a rectangular display. But we quickly found the value of center-aligned information when quickly glancing at information.

Q. How did you collaborate with other teams to design the UX of the Gear S2?

We all worked closely together as a team – hardware, software, industrial design, interaction design, visual design, motion design, prototyping, and so on – to ensure a seamless user experience.

For instance, the rotating bezel’s tension and friction were tuned with a scene transition implementation. We didn’t want the navigation to be overly difficult or simple. We also wanted the screen to start moving as the Gear S2 was rotated, so the rotation speed and starting point were carefully designed.

We included haptic vibration in the design and tuned it with the software and hardware as well. For instance, we designed a subtle vibration for when the Gear S2 hits the scrolling end. It had to be perfect with the rotating bezel, on-screen feedback and vibration all together.

We made a record number of prototypes when developing the Gear S2. Due to the new methods of interaction, we had to see and use the prototypes for ourselves. For instance, the watchface rotation. We weren’t sure whether the screen should transition to the right or left when rotating the bezel.  We made about 20 variations—just to check this one function—with different angles, speeds and directions. We had to actually see these things in action before making the decision. Nothing could work separately. They all needed to harmonize perfectly to deliver a smooth and natural experience.

Q. How do you see wearables affecting people’s lifestyles in the near-future?

Wearables are taking on the roles of smartphones and computers. They are allowing technology to be more invisible and natural, yet still accessible. I think the most immediate opportunity for wearables is that they free users from being active while still keeping them connected – for example, when exercising. And since they are worn, they have the opportunity to help enhance our personal wellbeing, health and fitness. In the longer run, wearables will become a main interaction point when everyday objects are connected seamlessly. We see this opportunity already with the ability to call Uber from the Gear S2 without pulling out the phone on the road.

The Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge are designed with an intuitive feel and uniform screen that maintain Samsung’s design heritage. The new user experience (UX) includes Always On Display that enables users to check time and notification with ease, enhanced use of messaging with minimized interference of other apps and one-touch shortcuts that increase functionality. With improved processing ability and software, the phones were designed with users’ needs in mind.

The UX designers of the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge explained the many design changes of the device and how they see these changes improving the user experience.

(from left to right) Jonghyun Han, Jieun Yang, Sangdeuk Nam, Sukjae Lee, Donggyu Lim

Q. What differentiates the UX in the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge?

Sangdeuk Nam: These phones are designed with special features that reflect the actual needs, usage patterns and experience of the users. In particular, the new UX includes refinements to the clock and weather information on the home screen, an app search within the app tray – making for a faster app search.

Hyosang Bang: As we designed the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge, we aimed the entire process of using the phone –taking it out of one’s pocket, using it and putting it back in one’s pocket – is one effortless flow of motion and experience. Through features such as the Always On Display, improved connectivity between messages, and quick access through the edge screen, the phones are designed to provide information in an intuitive and handy way.

Q. What is the Always On Display (AOD) and how do you expect users to benefit from this feature?

Jieun Yang: Through our research, we were able to see that users repeatedly turn the phone display on and off throughout the day just to check the time. The Always On Display allows users to check important information like time without turning on the screen and we expect improved user satisfaction from this feature.

To personalize their device, we also have developed themes like space, and many more, that users can download for AOD. The favorite theme will be applied throughout the device, including the clock and image on the home screen and will be continuous on the turned-on screen and the turned-off screen.

Q. What is the Smart Switch, and how will it benefit users?

Sang-a Eun: Some users are reluctant to change their phones because of the difficulty and inconvenience of moving data from one device to another. By using the Smart Switch, a service that allows users to easily send personal data from an old to a new device, users will have no trouble maintaining all previous experiences –even between various devices like a phone and tablet.

The users are able to transfer data from the previous device using a USB connector or by executing it in the setting menu of the device. To allow new users to easily and quickly send data themselves, we have explained the data transmission processes through image and infographic depicting the data transmission stage.

Q. What is notable about the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge messaging interface?

Hyojin Bae: The Galaxy S7 and S7 edge messaging are a trendier version of Legacy messaging and are intended to be used the same way as instant messaging (IM). We designed it to have Cross-app functionality, meaning that users can perform various activities using one particular app without moving around to different apps.

Sukjae Lee: For instance, if a user receives a web link in a text message, email, or memo app, they can use a web viewer to check the link in the same screen without exiting the app he or she was using. Also, the user can easily send attachments, like images, videos, music, memos, schedules, contact, and more, through a separate Attach Sheet interface.

Q. What is notable about the Sound & Haptic system in the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge?

Youngku Lee: The main focus in developing the audio ux was also the “consideration for users”. For example, we changed the low battery alert sound to be a more pleasant and relaxing auditory experience.

One example is the Galaxy devices’ signature sound – “Over the Horizon”. For the new Galaxy S7 and S7 edge, a fresh interpretation of the song has been uploaded in an exciting Fusion jazz style, a music genre that we think exemplifies the feeling of consideration.

Q. What are the improvements in UX for the enhanced edge function?

Donggyu Lim: The edge UX allows more efficient access to the routine tasks that are most frequently used. The biggest improvement is that the edge can be summoned on any screen without having to press a certain button. Also, the edge domain has been expanded so that users can check the news or scores for a particular sports team, right away. We also improved the shortcut function so that the user’s most frequently contacted person, most frequently used app, or the most frequently used function can be added and summoned on any screen.

Q. Is there a possibility for the edge UX advancement in the future?

Jonghyun Han: Samsung has released its third edge model and is also continuously advancing edge UX. In addition to the edge functions that we have prepared, there are even more functions being distributed through the SDK for use by third party app developers.

In the future, we expect that there will be an increase in more diverse services and functions through the expanded scope of the edge. Opportunities for messenger services, various news providers, and O2O services are wide open as well.

Sincere 7, innovate 7

The Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge are here. The journey to perfection has at last culminated the palm of your hands. The Galaxy S7 and S7 edge design story is an accumulation of the Galaxy series design identity as well as the relentless pursuit of creating a more human-centered device both in form and user experience.

As we mentioned in the previous episode, we’ll go a bit deeper into the design language of the new Galaxy S7 and S7 edge. Think of it as a precursor to the real thing you’ll be holding in your hand soon enough.

Touch is the New Sight: Surprised? Pick it up, you haven’t seen anything yet

Imagine a pebble on the beach polished by the constant crash of waves. It is a work of art, perfected by nature. That pebble smooth and seamless, is in a nutshell, the design approach of the new Galaxy S7 and S7 edge. The design really resonates in the touch rather than the look of the design. Pick it up, it feels better in your hand than it actually looks. We’re confident that you’ll quickly build a rapport with the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge as you keep reading and finding out more about the different functions and features of this new work of art.

A Simpler Design for You, a Highly Complex Approach for Us

The new Galaxy S7 edge front glass is designed with 3D thermoforming technology. The entire dimensions, including the tempered sides of the phone, were molded into one coherent whole. The tempered glass was slowly shaped in immensely high temperatures, a highly complex technique that is not for the faint of heart. This new form serves to enhance the grip, but also the subtle nuance of light that hit and reflects on the device gives it a dimension and depth unseen in a communication device until now.

3D thermoforming is the edge of the blade in technological advancement and combining design with such innovations is key. We don’t have the space to fully explain the complex processes needed to craft such a contour that unifies both glass and metal, nor do you need to understand such technicalities to fully experience the new Galaxy S7 edge. All you need is to pick up the device and feel the difference in your hands.

All That Needs to Stand Out is You

Right where it should be, but hidden flush in the contours as though hidden. The side button and rear camera of the new Galaxy S7 and S7 edge are incredibly subtle. What you have is a continuous fluid body that isn’t disrupted by the button or lens jutting out. We’ve also made a water and dust resistant body without scarifying the design by covering USB and ear jack with rubber. Without re-engineering the wheel, we’ve refined the status quo toward a perfect form. For the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge we chose usability and comfort instead to enable the camera and buttons to be unobtrusive. Now, all that needs to stand out is you.

Color and Material – Everything’s a Bit Deeper

A natural illumination and depth devoid of artificial treatment — four colors were developed to embody this quality: Black Onyx, Gold Platinum, White Pearl, and Silver Titanium. These hues glitter and shimmer as if illuminated from inside the glass surface. Such effects are achieved with an optical layer process that applies film on the surface of the curved glass.

Black Onyx, one of the newly developed colors, applies a unique pattern that fractures light into a unique ebony hue found only on the S7; it enriches the depth of the transparent glass material. Gold Platinum, is reminiscent of smokey quartz; Silver Titanium mixes white and silver for a stern yet vivid feel. Whichever you choose, each color affects the glass material in a distinct and unique way.

Even Easy to Miss Details Weren’t Missed

The first impression packaging and accessories of the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge were not far from the designer’s desk. The sturdy embossed black box hints at the new experience of touch that awaits you, and as it opens up like a book the revealing of the device is a new experience in itself; intuitive, yet undoubtedly premium in the classic sense without even having touched the phone yet.

The Galaxy S7 and S7 edge accessories follow a consistent design approach. In this way, you can literally see the underlying concept as well as the effort put in by each designer to develop each accessory and item to a stringent level of quality. Having said that, each of the 10 items (8 for the case, 2 for power) retain a unique look that was developed through collaboration and cooperation between the developers and designers.

Establishing Sincerity: A Life-Centered UX

A smartphone isn’t just another cool statement piece. It’s probably the most important personal hands-on hands-on device we use in our daily lives. It is therefore vital that you communicate and interact well with it. Likewise, the newly developed interface and UX design of the Galaxy S7 edge adjusts accordingly to your needs and usage patterns. It strives to create not the most efficient and quickest functions or commands but a rapport with you, an experience that is focused on you, where effectiveness and efficiency come naturally.

Connecting You Easier, Quicker

Your smartphone is also an interactive hub that connects all the diverse digital devices in your everyday life. With the Quick Connect function on the new Galaxy S7 and S7 edge, your phone links you with various devices around you. On/Off assists your phone in connecting with Samsung appliances as well as other Bluetooth connections, you can even check battery levels on certain devices. Also, a backlog of linked devices is kept so you don’t have to look for them again at a later time.

The Start of Smart Just Got Smarter

The home and lock screen is probably the focal point of any interaction with a smart device. The clock and weather display has been further refined on the home screen as well as a search function in each app tray for quick searches and access. A new added function is the temporary app tray that holds apps that you’re scrolling through on the home screen in one easy to access folder. The two shortcut icons on the lock screen are customizable to fit your everyday needs, or if you’re a minimalist at heart you can discard the icons all together for a crisp clear lock screen look.

Data Transfer Done Smart

With the Smart Switch function you can now transfer your data from a previous phone to your new Galaxy S7 and S7 edge. USB connection and Wi-Fi Direct are the two connecting options, what’s new about this function is that folders, widgets, home screen layouts, third party apps everything is transferred exactly as they were into your new phone. Maybe not the most exciting of functions newly introduced in the S7 series but the Smart Switch function is one more facet that shows the level of sincerity and personalization you can achieve with the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge.

Off, but Not Really

Even when the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge are turned off, it is still attentive to your movements. AOD (Always On Display), a function specific to the off state of the phone displays the time, calendar or message alerts when you need them without having to turning on the device as we do a thousand times a day.

Wider Edge, Better Usability

The edge panel just got wider. From 260 pixels to 550, the almost double increase in screen real estate opens up multitudes of opportunity that go beyond mere size. Image and text elements are two main benefactors of this increase, while the edge has been opened from just people and apps to third party applications and their functions. The position, size and transparency of the Edge Handler can also be adjusted according to preference.

The previous design of the edge screen was innovative enough for us to take that same technology but refine it and tailor it to fit more into the everyday habits and gestures of you, the user. We’re also confident that with the introduction of third party developers into this arena the floodgates of possibilities have been opened.

Won’t Let You Miss a Beat

The Cross App lets you access different functions even with an application already open on the screen. For example, messages, emails, memos can be accessed with a viewer window that pops up in front of the app in use. Also images, videos, music files, memos, schedule and contact info can be attached with the Attach Sheet interface while all that is going on. Video files can be accessed simply by tapping on the icon in the message app without leaving the screen, while the camera and photos can be taken or sent without even accessing the apps themselves.

Perfected Outside In

The design of a new product shouldn’t be redundant. If anything, the best products are perfected from a holistic approach; outside as well as in, whole and details, even the rapport that users share with their device is of importance. Without too much banter users intuitively understand the device as the sense of sincere premium sets in. Attachment to a product or device stem from this very source as well as we strive to aim higher in our aim to perfection, and we here at Samsung Electronics feel that is where the key to a satisfactory premium product lies.

The Galaxy S7 and S7 edge design has just begun and will continue to be perfected by you. When you interact with it, touch it and use it everyday the simplicity and beauty of meaningful design will touch your heart.

What makes a good smartphone?

Extraordinary design? Groundbreaking features? High-powered performance?

In short, a good smartphone is one that answers to the needs and demands of the user.

Created for today’s mobile lifestyle, the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge do just that by leading the industry with a unique mobile experience that features a refined design, higher-quality camera, enhanced software functionality, and unsurpassed connectivity to a galaxy of services, products and experiences. In addition, Samsung’s latest flagship devices marry sleek design with powerful performance so users can do even more, faster and easier.

Here are seven reasons why the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge are the most anticipated smartphones yet.

1. High Quality Images, No Matter the Time of Day or Location

The most raved about new features of the latest additions to Samsung’s Galaxy S line-up are its new camera capabilities. As the first smartphones to apply Dual Pixel technology, the devices are able to capture high quality images in low light environments, while a large F1.7 aperture ensures brighter, sharper photographs. New Motion Panorama and Selfie Flash functions let users have an entirely new phonetography experience.

2. Refined Design

While preserving the design heritage of its predecessor, the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge boast an even more seamless connection between its glass and metal materials, along with a slimmer rear camera. Thanks to the curvy form of the devices’ glass, these models now provide an even better grip and naturally fit in one hand. And, bringing back the microSD slot, the new flagship smartphones are more functional than ever.

3. Water and Dust Resistance

For people who work, travel and play in all kinds of locations and environments, the upgraded IP68 water and dust resistance of the devices is especially well-received. As the premium standard of protection against water and dust, the feature allows users to enjoy the sleek, curvy design of Samsung’s latest flagship smartphones without the inconvenience of a bulky additional case.

4. Made for Gaming

With their optimized hardware and enhanced UX, which allow for smoother graphics and longer playing times, Samsung’s new smartphones can satisfy even the most demanding mobile gamer. And with the new Game Launcher app, users now have the ability to take control of their mobile gaming experience with numerous customization options.

5. A Phone That Stands Out, Even When the Screen is Off

The Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge offer a new Always On Display (AOD) feature that delivers constant information and notifications, such as the time or number of missed calls, while utilizing a miniscule amount of battery. With plenty of customization features, the AOD can be as unique as its user.

6. Simple and Soft UX

Customizable lock and home screens, beautified icons and the user-friendly Android 6.0 Marshmallow operating system have taken the user experience of the new Galaxy smartphones to an entirely new level. In particular, the refined edge screen of the Galaxy S7 edge provides practical functions and easier access to users’ frequently used content and tasks.

7. An Assortment of Accessories

No smartphone is complete without its accessories, and Samsung offers a collection of them to complement the design and enhance the features of its just-revealed devices. From battery packs and a LINE Friends collection to a new LED View Cover and the lifestyle band, Charm, these new accessories offer seamless integration to enhance one’s personal style.

The Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge will be available starting March 11 in select markets.

Generally, the design of a smartphone’s UX (user experience) must reflect what users want most from their devices and as such, Samsung Electronics took these needs and demands into careful consideration when refining the most recent additions to the Galaxy S line-up. Included among them are an Always On Display, which lets users check important information like time and notifications without waking the screen, as well as an enhanced processor and optimized software. Perhaps the two best words to describe the resulting UX of the new Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge are simple and soft.

Galaxy S6 (left) vs Galaxy S7 (right)

An Improved Look and Feel

One of the most visibly notable changes to the UX is the shape of the phone’s icons. Unlike the device’s predecessor, which featured icons of various shapes, the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge feature squircle (rounded square) icons to create a more organized, visually pleasing appearance. A user can even apply the squircle shape to third-party app icons by activating the icon customization function.

Samsung has also simplified the lock and home screens. Users can now customize these screens by adding two shortcut icons to their favorite apps. They also have the option of removing weather information from the lock screen.

The camera UX has also been modified. To make the function icons visible at all times, black strips were placed on the top and bottom of the screen. Users can also now launch their favorite camera modes even faster by placing shortcut icons directly on the camera screen.

Improved Usability

In terms of usability, the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge boast the recently released, user-friendly Android 6.0 Marshmallow operating system, which offers a whole host of new and improved features. Two of the most useful are Samsung Internet 4.0, which offers better privacy and functionality than the native browser, and Cross App, which lets users operate their favorite apps from within other apps.

The updated Smart Switch function lets users connect their devices’ built-in USB connector to other smartphones to transfer not only data files, but also home screen layouts and other phone settings in the same way they could with previous Galaxy models. (Support functions vary from model to model.)

A Cutting Edge UX

The most noteworthy modification of the Galaxy S7 edge’s UX is the enhanced edge screen. Rather than simply providing an aesthetic flair, the edge has been refined to provide practical functions and easier access to users’ frequently used content and tasks.

One way this was accomplished was by expanding the edge panel. While the edge panels of the Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ boast an aspect ratio of 260 pixels, the edge panel of the latest flagship device has nearly doubled in size, enabling users to enjoy richer content on a bigger panel. The 550-pixel display also allows third party companies to showcase even more content on the edge panel, while its horizontal orientation makes it easier to read.

Through Samsung’s ever-growing partnerships, the company has established a diverse collection of content especially for the wider edge panel, and expects it to grow even more now that it has released its Edge Panel SDK. With the strengthening of this third party ecosystem, users can experience a differentiated and richer edge experience through specialized news, sports, finance and mobile shopping apps.

With the Galaxy S7 edge, users can do more, faster, thanks to added features of the edge screen. New functions include Tasks edge, a panel that provides shortcuts to often used app features and tasks, as well as Quick tools, a panel that assists in simplifying everyday life with tools such as a ruler, compass and customizable flashlight.

Existing edge functions have also been improved. The number of apps that users can register in the Apps edge has increased from 5 to 10, while People edge now provides the names in addition to photographs of one’s top contacts, enhancing intuitiveness and readability.

Users can now access all these panels more easily by customizing the location, size and transparency of the Edge handle—the fixed tab that activates the edge features. The Handle will not interfere with any apps in use, so users are free to work or play without the edge panel getting in the way.

Together, these changes promise to let Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge users get even more out of their devices.

*All functionality features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

One change that’s immediately obvious is the application screen, which has been changed from black to white for better readability. Most importantly, though, the Samsung UX designers sharply reduced the number of menu options at every level and replaced ambiguous pictograms with clear and simple text. It does not take away from the phone’s functionality, but makes for a much faster and more intuitive user experience. Compared to previous devices, the number of steps to complete regular smartphone tasks has been reduced remarkably.

Reduce and remove for a simplified UX

Take the Contacts app on the Galaxy S6, and compare it to that of the Galaxy Note 4. Rarely used function tabs like Recent Contacts and Favorites have disappeared. Instead, there is a simple set of menu options, including Contacts, Groups and More. Clicking on More makes the new UX design philosophy even more obvious. The Galaxy S6 has narrowed this menu to just four options, Edit, Share, Manage Contacts and Settings – which is notably fewer than the Galaxy Note 4, which presented users with six options to choose from. This is the result of Samsung’s thorough survey on how people use their smartphones.

The Settings menu has also been slimmed down, with a similar offering of functions and structures that make it easy to get things done. In total, the Galaxy S6 offers 24 menu options arranged in four categories, including Connections, Personal, Device and System. It’s a significantly smarter and more efficient menu than the Note 4, which had a total of 34 menu options. The bottom line is Galaxy S6 provides already-optimized menu options, rather that cluttering the menus with too many options.

Samsung’s developers also improved the UX for the Galaxy S6 by reducing the number of pop-up alerts and notifications, such as Confirmation and Help.

The Graphic User Interface (GUI) is another area that has largely become simplified. Users want to focus on the information they regularly use. These kind of improvements can be found across the UX

By introducing text icons instead of pictograms, Samsung has simplified the way users access apps, which makes life a little easier for people who are not familiar with the system.

Samsung’s developers also purged the tech jargon and replaced it with normal language that users can understand. For example, the term Network SSID was replaced with Network Name, and Font Style with Font.

Another highlight of the improved UX is Visual interaction. For example, when you touch the screen to unlock the phone, a flow of water appears on the screen in response to your touch. When you slightly tilt the phone, the water flows in the same direction.

What’s more, when you swipe to the left or right of the Galaxy S6 edge home screen, the widgets and icons move seamlessly, as if they were smoothly gliding from one edge of the screen to the other.

Also, when you lock the screen, it doesn’t black out all at once. The center of the screen darkens and quickly spreads left and right, like a curtain effect, until the full screen is closed out and locked.

The home screen glides toward the edge of the phone (Left) A flow of water appears when unlocking the screen (Right)

New UX, Unique and Powerful

The Galaxy S6 edge is the world’s first smartphone with a dual curved display. But the edges were not just made for aesthetic purposes. They also have a significant impact on how people use the device. The edges can display important information, including weather, stocks and news, when the phone is lying face down. This information is visible on the edges of the device and can be activated with a simple touch.

Samsung calls this display the People Edge, and it’s obvious why. With People Edge, different colors – blue, green, yellow, orange and purple – can be assigned to different people (one for each color). When one of them texts or calls, the phone will glow the assigned color. So whether you are in the middle of an important meeting or playing sports, the color will tell you instantly whether someone near and dear is trying to get in touch.

Edge Lighting

People Edge UX

The Galaxy S6 is the first Galaxy S with Themes, which allow users to change the look and feel of the phone. Applying a theme will change the look of the lock screen, home screen and icons, as well as 14 applications such as Phone, Message, Clock and Calculator and the Notification Bar.

Samsung revealed a set of Avengers themes, a collaboration with Marvel, at MWC in March. More collaborations with other partners are also in the works. Samsung is developing a theme-maker tool that will be distributed to partners and individual theme designers.

Samsung has gone to great lengths to improve the UI and UX. It’s just one more thing that people are going to really love about the Galaxy S6 once they get their hands on it.