Visually, the Samsung Internet app is getting a makeover. Leaked screenshots reveal a new icon and welcome screen, hinting at a more modern aesthetic. The address bar, now located at the bottom of the screen for easier reach, sports a blurred, almost ethereal look, subtly fading into the background as you scroll through content.
This design tweak isn’t merely cosmetic; it’s a calculated move to maximize screen real estate and minimize distractions, letting users focus on the content itself. It’s a small change that could have a big impact on overall usability.
The browser’s grid layout is set to mimic the look and feel of Samsung’s Gallery app, offering a familiar and intuitive way to navigate multiple tabs. Floating options are also being introduced, designed to provide quick access to essential functions, such as sharing, adding to bookmarks, and more.
Speaking of tabs, managing them is about to get a whole lot easier. Synced tabs and Secret Mode are now just a tap away within the tabs menu, and the browser offers options to display tabs either stacked or listed as semi-transparent overlays. Internet Browser version 29.1.2.23 is the version number to watch out for.
The One UI 8.5 update isn’t just about aesthetics and usability; it also brings significant improvements to privacy and functionality. The redesign promises to tackle those persistent, fixed-position pop-ups that plague many websites, offering a more streamlined browsing experience.
But the real game-changer is the potential integration of AI-powered search. Hidden within the debug settings is a new “AI Search” option that allows users to query information using either Gemini or Perplexity. Imagine being able to conduct research and gather information without ever leaving your browser – that’s the promise of this feature.
“The integration of AI search within the browser is a bold move that could redefine how we interact with information on our phones.” – A.I. Analyst, Hashlytics.io
Finally, Samsung is addressing a long-standing user frustration: closing multiple tabs. A new pop-up menu will offer the option to close all tabs at once, along with a “never show this message again” toggle for those who prefer a more streamlined experience.
The One UI 8.5 update for Samsung’s Internet app represents more than just a visual refresh. It’s a strategic move to enhance usability, improve privacy, and integrate cutting-edge AI capabilities. If these leaks prove accurate, Samsung is poised to deliver a browsing experience that’s not only visually appealing but also smarter and more secure. The question now is: how will Google and Apple respond?
