Enhancing the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Experience
After spending a week with the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, I encountered a persisting issue that hindered my overall experience: the cumbersome grip. Despite its lighter design compared to previous models, the new flatter sides made it challenging to hold securely. This design also complicates reaching the screen's corners, diminishing usability considerably.
Adapting to One UI 7
In addition to the physical challenges, Samsung's One UI 7 introduces a learning curve. The updated method of accessing the quick panel is less intuitive, requiring a swipe from the top-right corner, while swiping down elsewhere pulls up the notification panel. Although returning to a single-panel layout is an option, it compromises quick access to other widgets.
Discovering Good Lock: A Game Changer
Amid the early challenges, I discovered a solution in Samsung's Good Lock app. Designed to provide various customizations for Galaxy devices, this app was something I hadn't explored until now. Initially, my use of Good Lock on the S25 Ultra was limited to tweaking animations and icon placements. However, I found a transformative feature: One Hand Operation+.
Making One-Handed Usage Easier
The One Hand Operation+ feature aims to simplify one-handed device usage by adding customizable gesture handles on the screen’s sides. These options surpass the basic reprogramming of the back swipe gesture, enhancing functionality significantly. The app allows customization of up to six shortcuts per side for short and long swipes, including straight, diagonal up, and diagonal down motions. It also offers detail-oriented control over the touch area’s dimensions and appearance.
Optimizing Gesture Controls
My configuration included a diagonal down swipe on the right handle to open the quick panel, effectively eliminating the need for finger gymnastics. Now, whether I'm surfing the internet, streaming videos, or snapping pictures, the quick panel is just a swipe away. Personally, I've set the diagonal up swipe to launch the calculator, a vital tool in my work as a freelancer managing finances.
| Gesture | Function | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Diagonal Down (Right) | Quick Panel | Access the quick panel instantly without reaching the top-right corner |
| Diagonal Up (Right) | Calculator | Quick access to calculator for financial management |
| Diagonal Up (Left) | Quick Tools | Floating panel with essential shortcuts like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth |
Adding Value to the S25 Ultra
The left handle's Diagonal Up gesture is programmed to access Quick Tools, a floating panel which provides shortcuts to essential functions like Wi-Fi toggles, volume control, Bluetooth, Auto Rotate, and a Scanner. Despite only scratching the surface of what long swipe gestures can offer, the Good Lock app’s customization has significantly enhanced my S25 Ultra experience, allowing up to 50 possible actions.
Transitioning to a Full-Time Device
Initially, the Galaxy S25 Ultra didn’t seem like a device I’d commit to long-term. However, resolving the usability issues means I'm now ready to transition fully from the iPhone 16 Pro. Samsung's superior display brightness and clarity, combined with the highly refined One UI 7, offer compelling reasons to make this switch.
Installing Good Lock and adjusting settings has been unexpectedly transformative, greatly impacting the phone's functionality. Having witnessed its potential, I’ll likely rely on it for future Samsung devices.
