On iPhones, there’s a handy Offload Unused Apps feature that stores apps in cloud storage. Now, Samsung is jumping on the bandwagon by introducing similar functionality to its Galaxy devices with One UI 7.0. This new feature takes storage management up a notch, enabling users to offload apps to the cloud while keeping their data intact.
One UI 7.0 beta brings iPhone-like cloud app storage
To clarify, the ability to store apps in the cloud was first introduced with Android 15. Since One UI 7.0 is built on Android 15, the ability to archive apps on the cloud is now available on Galaxy devices as well.
With the One UI 7.0, apps you rarely use can be removed from your device’s local storage while staying visible in your app drawer. The key data — like settings and user progress — is backed up to the cloud. When you need the app again, simply tap it, and it will download and restore itself seamlessly without any data loss. A small cloud icon appears next to archived apps.
Note: not all apps currently support the archive apps functionality with One UI 7.0. We’ve yet to figure out whether it’s because the One UI 7.0 is currently in beta or there’s something else.
It could fix limited device storage issues
This addition is a boon for users with limited device storage. Instead of choosing between deleting apps and dealing with constant storage alerts, you can now temporarily free up space without losing your app configurations. Having an iPhone, I can personally vouch it’s a valuable addition. It’s especially helpful for larger apps, such as games, which tend to take up a major chunk of storage.
That said, the One UI 7.0 beta is currently rolling out to the Galaxy S24 series. The full, stable version of One UI 7.0, however, is still on the horizon. It’s set to debut at the Galaxy Unpacked event on January 22. This is where Samsung will take the wraps off the Galaxy S25 series. So, wait, it might just be worth it.