Samsung is set to enhance the functionality of its Now Bar feature for Android apps with the upcoming release of One UI 8 this year. Initially introduced in One UI 7, the Now Bar impressed many users with its sleek design and ability to provide useful, at-a-glance information.
However, its potential was limited as it only supported Samsung’s own applications and a select few Google services. In a positive move reflecting user feedback, Samsung is expanding the capabilities of the Now Bar to include third-party apps.
Observations from the One UI 8 beta reveal a developer option for “Live notifications for all apps,” indicating that Samsung plans to integrate with the new “Live Updates” framework introduced in Android 16. This change allows developers to send persistent, real-time updates to the Now Bar, lock screen, and status bar without users needing to unlock their devices or navigate into apps.
The opening of the Now Bar will significantly enhance its utility. For example, users will be able to track food deliveries or Uber arrivals directly from the lock screen, or check live sports scores without interrupting their current activities.
Additionally, there are indications that the Now Bar feature may extend to Galaxy smartwatches by 2026, in line with Google’s efforts to integrate Live Updates into its Wear OS. For developers, this presents an exciting opportunity.
By utilizing Android 16’s Live Updates APIs, apps can engage users more effectively without overwhelming them with repetitive notifications. Samsung’s decision to adopt a standardized approach rather than relying on a proprietary system improves both the developer experience and user satisfaction.
For Samsung users frustrated by the Now Bar’s previous limitations, the awaited enhancements are just around the corner, and developers would do well to familiarize themselves with the upcoming features in Android 16.