Samsung is reportedly working on a new AI-powered feature for its upcoming One UI 9.5 update, designed to let users create custom widgets simply by describing what they want in plain language. The feature, dubbed “My Custom Widget,” appears to be Samsung’s take on Google’s “Create My Widget” tool, which was introduced as part of Gemini Intelligence. While the exact details remain under wraps, a leaked screenshot shared by tipster Fahad Ali Javed offers a first glimpse at what could become a standout addition to Samsung’s software experience.
What Is “My Custom Widget”?
According to the leak, “My Custom Widget” is a new option within One UI 9.5 that allows users to generate a widget based on a text prompt. Instead of manually configuring a widget from scratch, you type a description like “show my calendar events for today with a weather icon” and the system interprets the request, builds the widget, and places it on your home screen. This mirrors the functionality of Google’s “Create My Widget” feature, which uses Gemini’s natural language understanding to automate widget creation.
How It Differs from Google’s Version
The key question is whether Samsung is simply rebranding Google’s existing feature or developing its own independent implementation. The leaked screenshot shows the label “My Custom Widget,” which suggests a distinct branding, but the underlying technology could be the same. Samsung has a history of customizing Android features to fit its One UI ecosystem, so it’s possible that the company is adding its own twist, such as deeper integration with Samsung apps or additional customization options.
For instance, Samsung might allow users to specify not only the widget’s function but also its visual style, color scheme, or layout. The AI could then generate a widget that matches the user’s aesthetic preferences, something that Google’s basic version might not offer. However, without official confirmation, it’s hard to say whether this is a superficial rename or a genuine upgrade.
The Rise of AI-Powered Widgets
Widgets have long been a staple of Android customization, but they’ve traditionally required manual setup. With the advent of on-device AI and large language models, the next step is to make widget creation as simple as speaking or typing a request. Google’s “Create My Widget” is one of the first attempts at this, and Samsung’s “My Custom Widget” could signal a broader trend across the industry.
Why This Matters for Users
For everyday users, this feature could save time and lower the barrier to personalizing their phones. Instead of navigating through complex widget settings, you just describe what you want, and the AI handles the rest. This is particularly useful for people who aren’t tech-savvy but still want a functional, attractive home screen.
Moreover, it opens up creative possibilities. You could ask for a widget that combines fitness stats with a motivational quote, or one that shows your next meeting and a traffic estimate to the location. The AI would parse the request, pull relevant data from apps, and present it in a cohesive widget.
Potential Integration with One UI 9.5
One UI 9.5 is expected to be based on Android 16, and Samsung typically rolls out its major updates in the fall. While the leak doesn’t specify a release date, it’s likely that “My Custom Widget” will debut alongside other AI features that Samsung has been developing. The company has already introduced Galaxy AI, which includes features like real-time translation, generative photo editing, and smart suggestions. Adding a widget creation tool would fit neatly into that ecosystem.
How It Might Work in Practice
Based on the screenshot, the feature appears to be accessible from the widget picker or perhaps from a dedicated AI menu. Users would type a prompt, and the system would generate a widget preview. From there, you could adjust the size, placement, or content before adding it to your home screen. The AI might also learn from your preferences over time, suggesting widgets based on your usage patterns.
There’s also speculation that Samsung might allow voice input for widget creation, similar to how you can use Bixby or Google Assistant for other tasks. But that’s just conjecture at this point.
What This Means for Samsung’s Competition
Samsung is not the only company exploring AI-driven customization. Google is already ahead with its Gemini feature, and other Android OEMs like Xiaomi and OnePlus may follow suit. However, Samsung’s massive user base and its strong integration of hardware and software give it an advantage. If “My Custom Widget” works seamlessly across Samsung’s devices, from Galaxy phones to tablets and even foldables, it could become a compelling reason to stay within the Galaxy ecosystem.
Challenges and Limitations
As with any AI feature, there are potential pitfalls. The accuracy of the widget generation depends on the underlying language model and the quality of data from connected apps. If the AI misinterprets a prompt, the widget might not display the right information or might look cluttered. Also, privacy concerns could arise if the AI needs to access sensitive data like calendars, emails, or location to build the widget.
Samsung will need to ensure that the feature is transparent about data usage and offers users control over permissions. Additionally, the feature might require an internet connection if it relies on cloud-based AI, which could be a drawback for users in areas with poor connectivity. On-device processing would be preferable, but that depends on the hardware capabilities of the device.
Looking Ahead: One UI 9.5’s Full Feature Set
While “My Custom Widget” is an exciting leak, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. One UI 9.5 is rumored to bring a host of other improvements, including enhanced multitasking, better battery management, and deeper AI integration across the system. Samsung has been focusing on making its software more intuitive, and this widget feature could be a flagship example of that philosophy.
User Expectations and Feedback
The leak has already generated buzz among Galaxy enthusiasts. Many are eager to see how Samsung implements this feature and whether it will be available on older devices or limited to the latest flagships. Historically, Samsung has rolled out major One UI updates to a wide range of devices, so there’s hope that “My Custom Widget” won’t be exclusive to the Galaxy S25 series or the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 6.
However, the feature’s reliance on AI might mean that it requires specific hardware, such as a neural processing unit (NPU), which could limit compatibility. Samsung’s mid-range and budget phones might miss out, at least initially.
How to Prepare for the Update
If you’re excited about this feature, there’s not much you can do right now except wait for the official announcement. But you can start familiarizing yourself with AI tools and widget customization in general. Samsung has also been known to release beta versions of One UI before the stable rollout, so you might be able to test “My Custom Widget” ahead of the public release by joining the One UI beta program.
In the meantime, you can explore existing widget customization options on your Galaxy device, such as using third-party apps like KWGT or Samsung’s own Good Lock module. These tools give you a taste of what’s possible, though they require more manual effort.
Final Thoughts
The potential addition of “My Custom Widget” to One UI 9.5 is a clear sign that AI is becoming an integral part of smartphone personalization. By letting users create widgets with simple language, Samsung is making its software more accessible and powerful. While we await official confirmation, the leak offers an exciting glimpse into the future of Galaxy devices.
As with all leaks, it’s wise to take this with a grain of salt until Samsung makes an announcement. But if the feature lives up to its promise, it could redefine how we interact with our home screens. Keep an eye out for more details in the coming months as One UI 9.5 approaches its release.
