Apps
Samsung updates Auto Blocker to v1.3 with Android 16 (One UI 8) support

Samsung has just updated the Auto Blocker app to version 1.3, which makes it compatible with Android 16-based One UI 8 software.
Recently, Samsung rolled out a new Auto Blocker app update to various Galaxy devices. The company has released version 1.2.02.1 for Galaxy smartphone users, while an early One UI 8 version has also appeared on APKMirror.
Auto Blocker’s One UI 8 version is only available on APKMirror. Installing the new version on your Galaxy device running One UI 7.0 may render it useless. The system may not even let you install the version due to incompatibility.
In case the Auto Blocker is enabled, you are restricted from sideloading apps on your device. The suit is aimed at keeping your data and privacy secure against hacking threats as well as potential leaks of your phone’s data and documents.

Source – APKMirror
Introduced with One UI 6, Samsung’s Auto Blocker is getting upgraded with each One UI iteration. While specific changes are undisclosed, the security-centric application is set to add new tools to safeguard your Galaxy device’s privacy.
To recall, the latest One UI 7 update has enhanced the Auto Blocker utility. The feature’s “Maximum Restrictions” option has added 2G networks blocking and automatic reconnection to non-secure Wi-Fi networks.
Samsung upgrading stock apps with new OS support shows that the One UI 8 will be here soon. The new OS would debut in July with next-gen foldables. Galaxy users can expect a Beta Program by the end of May or early June this year.
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Apps
One UI 8 revamps Galaxy Buds app with modern design, enhanced features

Samsung has started rolling out an update for the Galaxy Buds 2 Manager and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro Manager apps for users on One UI 8. This update brings a fresh and cleaner design to the Galaxy Wearable app, which is used to manage your Galaxy earbuds.
The new update of the Galaxy Buds Manager app arrives with version 8.0.25061651 and is now available for Download via the Galaxy Store on One UI 8 devices. Let’s explore what’s new in this update.
What’s New in One UI 8 Galaxy Buds Manager
The update introduces a major redesign to the way you control your buds. The first noticeable change is the new, simplified user interface. The colorful icons that previously represented different settings and features have been replaced with monochrome (black-and-white) icons. This gives the app a more modern and sleek look, aligning it with the overall design of One UI 8.
Moreover, the battery indicator has also been updated with an improved design. The battery status of your earbuds is now shown in more detail, making it easier to understand how much charge is left.
Notably, this new battery display is similar to the one found in the One UI 8 battery widget. It’s a minor change, but it makes managing your earbuds a lot clearer and more convenient.

Image via Tarun Vats
To update the Galaxy Buds Manager app, open the Galaxy Store on your device, go to the “Menu” section, select “Updates,” and tap on the “Update all” option at the top-right of the screen. This will automatically update the Galaxy Buds 2 Manager and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro Manager apps to the latest version.
Right now, this update is available only for devices running One UI 8, which is based on Android 16. Currently, Galaxy S25 users are testing the One UI 8 Beta 2 update, and the company is working to expand this update to more devices soon.
It’s not yet available for phones running One UI 7. However, Samsung may release it for older devices in the future. Additionally, the company could bring this updated design to other Galaxy earbuds in upcoming updates.
Apps
Google giving Android Photos Editing a serious boost – First Look

Android’s native Gallery app, Google Photos, is gearing up for a big upgrade with new Editing UI and features. The new stuff is yet to be rolled out to the public, but the upcoming changes and features have now been leaked.
Google Photos is preparing for a big upgrade, including a Material 3 Expressive redesign and a set of new editing features. The entire interface is going to adapt to Material 3 Expressive, including shapes for the walkthrough, tiles, and buttons.
Google Photos Editor has also reorganized all the existing tools into a row of new sections. The newly deployed editor design now introduces tabs including Auto, Actions, Markup, Filters, Lighting, and Color.
Based on the screenshots mentioned, users may find that some tools have vanished. However, it’s not entirely correct, Google Photos has just simplified access to features by organizing tools in the best preferred way based on feedback.
- Crop – It’s now found under “Actions”
- Tone and Color – These adjustments are now positioned as standalone sections

Source – Android Authority
The new editing interface has added a “Sky styles” option that offers effects like Luminous, Radiant, Vivid, Ember, and more. The selection tray of “Filters” is also more intuitive, delivering easier adjustment to filter strength.
Google Photos’ intelligent Auto editor tool is great. It just doesn’t simply deploy changes based on the image provided, but offers three enhancement options, including Enhance, Dynamic, and AI Enhance, so you get a more precise output.
The new design is bringing Portrait Blur, Eraser, Move, and Reimagine out of the Suggestions tab. It makes them even more useful as an existence in the mainstream feature selection tab, benefiting the broad Android smartphone user base.

Source – Android Authority
Last but not least, the new Search button within the Google Photos editor is a welcome move. If you find it difficult to access a particular editing tool, or you want to jump over there directly, you can just search and get it on the fly.
This small yet bold upgrade significantly improves the usability of the editor app. Note that these features and redesign are currently in development. Google may make them official at the Pixel 10 series launch event in the future.

Source – Android Authority
Apps
Samsung Health may introduce paid subscription for advanced features

For years, Samsung Health has been a great free app to track your steps, workouts, sleep, and more. But now, Samsung is thinking about adding a paid subscription plan that would give users access to advanced health features.
This news comes as Samsung announced its new One UI 8 Watch update. The update brings four new health tools – Antioxidant Index, Bedtime Guidance, Running Coach, and Vascular Load. However, not all features will be available on every device.
In a recent interview (via CNET), Dr. Hon Pak, head of Samsung’s Digital Health team, said the company is looking into premium subscription options for the Samsung Health app. It shows that Samsung might bring a paid subscription similar to what Fitbit and Garmin already offer.

Source – Samsung
The basic features in Samsung Health will likely stay free, but more detailed insights and coaching tools could be part of a paid plan. If you buy a newer Galaxy Watch or Galaxy Ring, you might get these advanced features included.
But if you have an older watch, you may need to subscribe to access them. Samsung hasn’t said how much the plan will cost or when it might launch.
Some of the new features are also being tested under Samsung Health’s “Labs” section. These tools use advanced sensors to measure things like antioxidant levels and heart strain more accurately. While Samsung Health is still free for now, things may change soon. Stay tuned for more information.
Apps
Samsung Find 1.7 bringing UI tweaks for easier device tracking

Samsung is getting ready to update its Samsung Find app to version 1.7.00.19. This new version will reportedly come with One UI 8 and bring a cleaner and simpler look to the app.
A reliable tipster shared details about the new Samsung Find update, comparing the new version with the older one (version 1.6.00.18). The main change is the improved design, which makes the app easier to use.
In the older version or in One UI 7, the list of devices looked crowded. The icons and names were placed too close together, which made it harder to find and manage your devices quickly. Also, it was not clear which device you were currently using.
The new version changes this. It has more space between each device, so everything looks neater and easier to read. A new label now says “This phone” under the device you are using, along with a green dot and a status like “Now.” This makes it simple to know which device is active.

Image via Theordysm
The bottom menu with three tabs – People, Devices, and Items, stays the same. But now, the tab you are on is easier to see, which helps with moving around the app.
Even though these changes are small, they make a big difference. The app now feels more modern and user-friendly. Users will be able to find their devices faster and manage them more easily.
Samsung Find version 1.7.00.19 shows a slightly changed UI of the app, which is expected to arrive with the launch of One UI 8. The new look and clear labels will improve the experience for many users. Stay tuned for more information.
Good Lock
Samsung Good Lock just got better – Here’s what’s new in version 3.0.12.2!

If you’re a Samsung Galaxy user who loves customizing your phone, you’ve probably used Good Lock. It gives you control over how your device looks and feels through several modules. Well, Samsung Good Lock just got a fresh update with version 3.0.12.2.
While the Samsung Good Lock 3.0.12.2 update is not a huge update, it brings a couple of small but useful changes that make using the app even better. The new update is available on the Galaxy Store for eligible devices.
With the fresh version, Samsung has made it easier to see which modules have been updated. Good Lock is made up of different modules like LockStar, QuickStar, KeysCafe, NiceShot, and more. Now, you won’t have to think which ones are new or updated; everything is clearer. That means you can explore the latest features faster and keep your phone up to date.
Moreover, the update improves overall app stability. That means the app now runs more smoothly, with fewer crashes or bugs. Whether you’re tweaking your home screen functions or adding cool effects to your lock screen, the whole experience should feel smoother and faster.
You can download the latest version of Good Lock directly from the Galaxy Store >> Menu option >> Updates. Just check for updates and install the new version. Also, you can download it directly from the third-party app link mentioned here.
Even though this isn’t a major update, it still helps make the app better and easier to use. Install it now and enjoy enhanced features.
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