Samsung has initiated a beta program in South Korea for the forthcoming One UI 5.1.1 update on the Galaxy Z Fold 4. Today, early participants of the program have received the initial beta build. Although the version number may suggest a minor update, One UI 5.1.1 brings a plethora of fresh functionalities and enhancements to the foldable device.
What’s new in Galaxy Z Fold 4’s One UI 5.1.1 Beta Build
The release notes for One UI 5.1.1 highlight several noteworthy additions and enhancements. These include enhanced previews in the Recent Apps menu for split screen, full screen, or pop-up apps. Users can now switch directly from a pop-up to split-screen mode and conveniently move pop-up apps off the screen for temporary storage until needed again.
With the S Pen, users can preview apps by hovering over their icons. Additionally, the Taskbar has been updated to accommodate up to four recently used apps (an increase from the previous two), and the Taskbar area automatically adjusts when seven or fewer icons are displayed.
Additionally, One UI 5.1.1 brings expanded support for Flex Mode Panel to a wider range of applications. In Flex Mode, users can now enjoy convenient controls for media playback, including dedicated buttons to skip forward or backward by 10 seconds. The time bar on the media player allows for precise navigation to specific positions on the timeline.
Furthermore, the toolbar of the Flex Mode Panel can be customized to suit individual preferences. Quick Sharing functionality has also been enhanced, allowing users to share files with contacts even when they are not in close proximity. Furthermore, users now have the option to set an expiration date for shared files and revoke access at any time.
Samsung Health has introduced notable enhancements to its sleep coaching features, specifically targeting users with Galaxy Watch4 or newer smartwatches. The sleep coaching content and design have been improved to provide a more informative and visually appealing experience. Users can now easily access and comprehend the factors that influence their sleep score, gaining insights into their sleep patterns and quality.
Moreover, for Galaxy Watch5 models, sleep tracking includes the measurement of skin temperature during sleep, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis. Additionally, the summary info screen has been enhanced, presenting sleep-related data in a clearer and more concise manner. These updates aim to empower users with valuable information and support their sleep health and well-being.
Samsung’s Camera app receives several enhancements to its Pro Mode specifically tailored for Flex Mode. Users can now utilize Pro Mode more efficiently in Flex Mode, enhancing their photography experience. Additionally, when using the capture view on the main screen, users gain the ability to select multiple photos, allowing for easier management and organization of their captures. The remaster preview has been made more convenient, providing users with a streamlined preview of their edited photos.
Applying effects has also been simplified, making it easier to enhance and customize your images. Another notable addition is the ability to copy and paste tones and filters applied to photos, offering users a quick and seamless way to apply consistent editing across multiple images.
Samsung has introduced an improved drag and drop functionality that now supports both hands. With this enhancement, users can select items to move using one hand and seamlessly continue the gesture with the other hand. This feature is applicable in apps such as My Files and on the home screen, offering a more intuitive and efficient way to manage and rearrange files and icons.
In addition, Samsung has introduced a convenient feature called wireless battery sharing, which allows users to use their phone while charging other devices. When the phone is placed with the main screen facing down on a surface, users can utilize the outer screen to access and operate their device.
Samsung has implemented further enhancements to storage and memory management, ensuring smoother performance and optimized utilization of resources. Furthermore, users now have the ability to customize the screen layout of Samsung Internet according to their preferences.
A substantial update indeed, One UI 5.1.1 brings a plethora of features and improvements that significantly enhance the user experience, especially for folding devices. The timing of its official introduction alongside the Galaxy Z Fold5 and Galaxy Z Flip5 indicates a deliberate focus on maximizing the potential of these cutting-edge foldable smartphones.
While the initial beta program for One UI 5.1.1 has started in South Korea, it is expected that the finalized update will roll out to older Fold and Flip models after the launch of the new devices, likely in the timeframe of August or September. As the beta program expands to other regions, users can anticipate more information on its availability and roll-out schedule.
Stay tuned for further updates as we keep you informed about the progress and expansion of the One UI 5.1.1 update for Samsung’s folding smartphones.
Source(s)