What’s the real purpose behind One UI 9?
As I prepared to install the beta version of Samsung’s upcoming Android 17 skin, I questioned the necessity of One UI 9. While minor tweaks and additional customization options are welcome, launching a completely new version seemed excessive.
My experience with Android 17 on the Pixel 10 Pro XL was underwhelming, and I expected a similar experience here. For the most part, I wasn’t wrong. However, after three weeks with One UI 9 on the Galaxy S26, I’ve discovered one transformative feature that justifies the entire update.
Some Genuine Downtime
Managing non-stop internet usage on smartphones is challenging. Many apps provide essential connectivity and access to valuable information but are also designed to be addictive, encouraging endless scrolling.
Many services propose a strict ban as a “solution,” yet the “forbidden fruit” effect often makes banned items more tempting and leads to easy circumvention with some blockers. Here’s where One UI 9’s ‘AI Network Guard’ feature shines. Instead of merely blocking apps, it cuts off the internet connection when a restricted app is launched.
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Many of the most engaging apps, including social media platforms, email clients, and web browsers, depend entirely on internet connectivity. By disabling this, the app loses its addictive nature, while other essential tools on the phone remain intact.
To start browsing, I have to be intentional and fully committed to the task at hand
The effectiveness of this feature has been remarkable. Although I’ve removed all social media from my phone, I habitually open Firefox for a quick dopamine hit. If the One Sec app doesn’t halt me, AI Network Guard certainly does. Essentially, to browse, I must be deliberate and focused, which is precisely the aim.
For those who wish to keep apps like TikTok or Instagram but limit their usage to certain times, this feature could be even more advantageous. While a web browser might be necessary during work hours, there’s often no valid reason to browse social media while working.
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However, AI Network Guard is rather hidden. It requires navigating to Settings > Connections > Wi-Fi, tapping the three dots in the top-right corner, and then selecting ‘Intelligent Wi-Fi’ five times to activate the ‘Connectivity labs’ feature.
Subsequently, you must set a password, select your distracting apps, and establish a ‘downtime’ schedule for automatic restrictions.
What I appreciate is its ability to restrict all browsers and games, preventing a simple visit to the Play Store to bypass it. While its deep placement in settings makes it easily overlooked, it also complicates the removal of restrictions. This extra step is enough to deter me from trying to bypass it.
With AI Network Guard, One UI 9 is a must-have in a way that Android 17 on Pixel phones simply isn’t
Nonetheless, AI Network Guard has a critical flaw: it lacks flexibility. Its static daily schedule doesn’t account for the diversity of people’s lifestyles.
Many might prefer to restrict distracting apps during weekdays and relax these limits on weekends. As of now, Samsung doesn’t accommodate this, which is a significant gap.
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With the integration of a straightforward scheduling tool, which Samsung has already used in other One UI apps, AI Network Guard could become the essential screen time management tool many parents and adults have been anticipating.
Not Interested in Screen Time Management? Skip It
In my perspective, AI Network Guard is the sole reason to try the One UI 9 beta at this moment.
As expected, there are numerous ‘new features,’ but they mostly consist of aesthetic enhancements and additional customization options.
There are new clock styles for the lock screen, a ‘Tape’ feature to redact data in Samsung Notes, and thicker quick settings buttons and toggles. You can also adjust the size of the media player in the quick settings panel. Truly groundbreaking developments.
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Overall, there are several dozen additions, but after three weeks of testing One UI 9, I can hardly recall them, which speaks volumes about their importance.
I initially thought Samsung was mirroring Android 17’s approach by focusing on minor adjustments and small quality-of-life improvements. Yet, with AI Network Guard, One UI 9 becomes indispensable in a way Android 17 on Pixel phones is not.
One UI 9 is set to launch on the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Z Flip 8 on July 22, and will gradually be available to all compatible Samsung Galaxy devices in the following months.
If waiting isn’t an option, the beta is currently accessible on Galaxy S26, S25, and S24 models.
