One UI 7.0 Could Introduce Individual App Locking: A Much-Requested Feature

Samsung’s One UI has always been about giving users more control and customization over their devices. However, when it comes to locking individual apps, the options have been quite limited. Currently, users are forced to rely on the Secure Folder, which, while effective, comes with significant drawbacks in terms of user experience.

With the One UI 7.0 beta program, there’s hope that Samsung may finally introduce the ability to lock individual apps without the need for Secure Folder. This feature already exists for Samsung users in China, making the global user base even more eager to see it implemented elsewhere.

Why App Locking Outside Secure Folder Is Needed

The Secure Folder is a robust solution for safeguarding apps and files, but it isolates data completely from the rest of the device. This creates hurdles for everyday tasks like sharing files or accessing content outside the folder.

Here are some scenarios where individual app locking would shine:

• Child Safety: Parents can lock sensitive apps while still allowing their children to access others, such as YouTube or games, without worry.
• Shared Devices: For users who share their devices, locking specific apps can provide much-needed privacy without restricting the functionality of the entire phone.
• Convenience: Unlike the Secure Folder, app locking wouldn’t require manual movement of files or apps, making it far more user-friendly.

Existing App Locking in One UI (China)

Interestingly, Samsung already provides this feature for its Chinese users, a smaller market for the company. This disparity has not gone unnoticed. Samsung users in larger global markets have voiced their frustration, pointing out the unfairness of this selective availability.

Samsung’s Response to User Feedback

The suggestion for individual app locking has gained traction among beta testers in the One UI 7.0 program. A member of the One UI beta team recently acknowledged the request, confirming that it is being evaluated by the project manager.

While it’s not guaranteed that this feature will make it to the public release of One UI 7.0, the acknowledgment alone is a positive sign. If the feature aligns with Samsung’s design goals, there’s a good chance it will roll out globally.

What This Could Mean for Users

If introduced, individual app locking in One UI 7.0 could be a game-changer for Samsung users. It would eliminate the need for third-party apps or reliance on Secure Folder, providing a more seamless and integrated solution for privacy and security.

Looking Ahead

While nothing is confirmed yet, the possibility of individual app locking has excited Samsung enthusiasts worldwide. It’s another example of how user feedback can shape the development of software updates.

For now, we’ll have to wait for the official release of One UI 7.0 to see if this feature makes the cut. If it does, it will undoubtedly be a welcome addition, enhancing both privacy and convenience for Samsung users.