What’s the Purpose of One UI 9?
Before I went ahead and installed the beta of Samsung’s forthcoming Android 17 interface, I was left puzzled. Another iteration? It felt like it was just being drained for everything it’s worth. Having been quite disappointed with Android 17 on my Pixel 10 Pro XL, I expected the same familiar tale here. And for the most part, I was right.
However, after experimenting with One UI 9 on the Galaxy S26 for three weeks, one feature emerged as a standout. It’s a true game changer and redeems the entire update.
A Bit of Real Downtime
Navigating pointless internet browsing on a smartphone feels like trying to resist a delicious Greggs pastry. Apps lure you in with essential connections and useful information, yet they are designed to keep you endlessly scrolling. The “answer”? Some services simply impose bans. But, simply trying to stop something only makes it more tempting. Enter One UI 9’s ‘AI Network Guard’. Instead of restricting apps, it completely cuts off the internet when you access a blocked app.
Many applications such as social media, email, and browsers require an internet connection. By shutting it off, you diminish their influence. It works. I’ve eliminated all social media, yet still find myself opening Firefox out of routine. If the One Sec app’s alert doesn’t deter me, AI Network Guard will. To start browsing, I must be deliberate, and that’s precisely how it ought to be.
If you’re holding onto TikTok or Insta but wish to limit their usage to specific times, this feature is even more beneficial. You might require a browser during the day, but there’s no reason to be endlessly scrolling when you should focus on your work.
AI Network Guard is hidden like an exclusive club. You need to dive into Settings > Connections > Wi-Fi, tap the three dots, hit ‘Intelligent Wi-Fi’ five times to reveal ‘Connectivity labs’. Set a password, select your apps, and establish a schedule.
You can block all browsers or games, preventing you from just hopping onto the Play Store. It’s a bit cumbersome, but that’s the point. Making the removal of restrictions tedious is enough to deter me.
However, AI Network Guard has a significant drawback: it’s as inflexible as a frozen fish. Many people might wish to loosen the restrictions on weekends. Currently, that’s not an option. A significant oversight from Samsung.
If You’re Unconcerned About Screen Time, Pass
To be honest, AI Network Guard is the sole compelling reason to check out the One UI 9 beta.
There are numerous ‘new features’, mostly just a fresh coat of paint and some tweaks.
New clock designs for the lock screen. ‘Tape’ to conceal items in Samsung Notes. Larger quick settings buttons. Adjust the media player size in quick settings. Groundbreaking stuff.
There are plenty of additions, but after three weeks with One UI 9, I couldn’t list them. That says it all about their significance.
While Samsung was adhering to the Android 17 framework, with AI Network Guard, One UI 9 stands out as a necessity in a way that Android 17 on Pixel devices simply does not.
One UI 9 is scheduled to launch on the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Z Flip 8 on July 22, before rolling out to all compatible Samsung Galaxy devices soon.
If you can’t wait, the beta is currently available on all Galaxy S26, S25, and S24 models now.
Summary: Why Consider One UI 9?
Let’s get straight to the point: If you’re tired of scrolling through endless cat videos while you should be focusing on work, then AI Network Guard is your solution. Otherwise, pass on it.
