Navigating Samsung's One UI App Drawer Evolution

Samsung's One UI continues to set a benchmark, especially with its app drawer's overhaul. This article dissects its evolution, focusing on practicality and user benefits.

The Move to Vertical Scrolling

In 2026, Samsung replaced its page-based drawer with a vertical interface in One UI 7. Statistics show navigation speed can improve by 20-30% with bottom tabs, akin to this shift ( source: Zapier). Studies validate vertical designs, proving Samsung's leap addresses usability gaps.

Key Features of the One UI 7 and 8.5

• Hybrid Sorting: One UI 7's introduction of sorting tied to layout is ingenious. Alphabetical orders queue vertically, whereas custom arrangements stick to horizontal—catering to both efficiency and personalized setups.

• Redesigned Search Bar: One UI 8.5 refines with a sleeker, more modern search bar design. This tool enhances aesthetics and function, standing out as a progressive update.

Real User Experiences: Adaptations and Feedback

Feedback has been paramount. Initially, Samsung's horizontal layout was met with discontent, pushing many users towards third-party solutions like Good Lock.

The hybrid method in One UI 7 acknowledges diverse user habits. While power users enjoy customization, general users benefit from increased efficiency.

Challenges: Addressing User Frustrations

Previously, users found page navigation cumbersome, with constant swipes creating friction. The vertical design addresses this by simplifying app access. However, the constraint of automatic layout selection based on sorting can still be a point of contention.

Integrating One UI with Business Tools

One UI's adaptability is not just for personal use. Its enhanced UX supports seamless integration with business technology, essential for tools like Salesforce or when utilizing Automations.

For small businesses, leveraging Samsung's UX alongside AI marketing strategies (/en/blog/why-small-businesses-need-ai-marketing) and AI chatbots (/en/blog/ai-chatbots-vs-human-support) is lucrative.

Conclusion: The Forward Path

Samsung's One UI app drawer transformation is a testament to listening to users and aligning with industry standards. As more businesses embrace mobile-first strategies, incorporating these UX advances is crucial.

FAQ

1. How to change app drawer from vertical to horizontal?

   Unfortunately, One UI app drawer orientation depends on the sorting method you've chosen. Vertical scrolling is the default for alphabetical orders, while custom sort arrangements maintain horizontal scrolling. Ensure your device's version supports these features, typically starting from the One UI 7 update.

2. How to change app drawer scrolling orientation in Samsung S24?

   On the Samsung S24, the app drawer's horizontal or vertical scrolling is linked to the sorting choice. You can manage this by accessing the three-dot menu on the bottom search bar and choosing either 'Alphabetical' for vertical scrolling or 'Custom' for horizontal.

3. What is One UI app drawer?

   The One UI app drawer is Samsung's interface for organizing and accessing apps. With One UI 7 and above, it now supports smarter navigation through a vertical scrolling design for more efficient app discovery.

4. What is One UI 7 horizontal app drawer?

   One UI 7 uses a hybrid app drawer layout. The horizontal arrangement continues to exist but requires users to sort apps manually to maintain this format. This approach balances user familiarity with modern vertical scrolling demands.