Disable Split Notifications in One UI 7

Updated 7 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

Yes, you can disable the split notification layout in One UI 7, but the setting is not where most users expect it. Instead of a dedicated toggle in the notification settings, Samsung routes the control through the “Notification pop-up style” option, which lets you switch between the new split view and the classic stacked list. This article explains exactly where to find that setting, how the split layout works, and what to do if the option is missing or grayed out.

Background: Why Samsung Changed the Notification Layout

One UI 7, based on Android 15, introduced a redesigned notification shade that separates each notification into its own card, with the app icon and timestamp on the left and the content on the right. This “split” design is part of Samsung’s broader visual refresh, which also includes new icons, a new quick settings panel, and a more rounded aesthetic. The goal was to improve glanceability and make each notification easier to act on, but many users found the layout visually cluttered or too spaced out, especially on phones with large screens.

The split style is not unique to Samsung—it mirrors a similar design in stock Android 15—but Samsung added its own twist by making it optional. In earlier One UI versions, notifications were stacked in a single column with a thin divider line. The new layout uses a two-column structure on tablets and foldables, and a card-like separation on phones.

How the Setting Works

The toggle that controls the split layout is officially called “Notification pop-up style.” It has two options:

Split – Each notification appears as a separate card, with the app icon on the left and the content on the right. This is the default in One UI 7.
List – Notifications are stacked in a single list, with the app icon above the text. This is the classic layout used in One UI 6 and earlier.

When you choose “List,” the notification shade reverts to the older, more compact appearance. The change applies immediately and affects all apps, including system notifications, messaging apps, and third-party apps.

Step-by-Step: How to Turn Off Split Notifications

Open the Settings app on your Samsung device.
Scroll down and tap Notifications.
Tap Advanced settings (on some devices it may be labeled “More notification settings”).
Look for Notification pop-up style and tap it.
Select List instead of Split.

If you don’t see “Notification pop-up style” right away, use the search bar at the top of Settings and type “pop-up style.” The setting should appear in the results.

Common Problems and Fixes

Some users report that the “Notification pop-up style” option is missing or grayed out. Here are the most common reasons and what to do:

Device not updated to One UI 7 – The setting only exists in One UI 7. If you’re on an older version, you won’t see it. Check for updates under Settings > Software update.
Carrier or region restrictions – In rare cases, carriers may disable the setting. If so, you can’t change it without modifying system files, which is not recommended.
Tablet or foldable specific – On some large-screen devices, the split layout is tied to the “Separate app icon” option. Try toggling that off in the same menu.
App-specific overrides – Some apps (like messaging apps) may use their own notification style, which can override the system setting. Check the app’s own notification settings.

If the setting is present but doesn’t seem to work, try restarting your phone after changing it. Also, note that the change only affects new notifications; existing ones in the shade may still show the old style until you dismiss them.

How to Choose the Right Layout for You

Choosing between Split and List is mostly a matter of personal preference. Here are some factors to consider:

Screen size – On larger phones, the split layout uses horizontal space more efficiently, showing more content per notification. On smaller screens, the list layout can feel more compact.
Number of notifications – If you get many notifications, the list layout lets you see more at a glance without scrolling. The split layout adds vertical padding, so fewer fit on screen.
Ease of tapping – The split layout gives each notification a larger touch target, which can reduce accidental taps. The list layout has smaller targets but is more dense.
Visual style – If you prefer a cleaner, more modern look, split may appeal to you. If you prefer a traditional, text-heavy interface, list is closer to what you’re used to.

There’s no right answer—try both for a day and see which feels more natural.

Comparison: One UI 7 vs. Stock Android 15

Stock Android 15 also uses a split notification design, but it does not offer a toggle to switch back to a list. Samsung’s decision to include the option is a differentiator. On Pixel devices, you can only change the layout by using a third-party launcher or a custom ROM, which is more complicated. Samsung’s approach is more user-friendly because it’s built into the system.

Another difference is that Samsung’s split layout includes a small app icon on the left, while stock Android shows the app icon in the top-left corner of the card. Samsung also allows you to adjust the notification transparency and background color in the same menu, which stock Android does not.

Alternatives and Workarounds

If the setting is not available on your device, or if you want even more control, consider these alternatives:

Use a third-party launcher – Launchers like Nova Launcher or Niagara Launcher can change the notification shade appearance, but they often require root access to fully replace the system UI.
Install a theme – Samsung’s Theme Store offers notification styles that can alter the look, but they may not revert to the exact list layout.
Use Good Lock – Samsung’s Good Lock app has a module called “QuickStar” that lets you customize the notification panel, including background color and transparency, but it does not change the split/list layout.
Wait for a software update – Samsung occasionally adds new options in later One UI 7 patches. Check for updates regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will disabling split notifications affect app notifications?
No, it only changes the visual layout. All notifications still appear and function normally.

Q: Is the setting available on all Samsung phones with One UI 7?
Mostly yes, but some carrier-locked devices or budget models may have it hidden. If you can’t find it, try the search method or check for updates.

Q: Does the list layout save battery?
No, the layout has no impact on battery life. Battery usage is determined by how often apps send notifications, not how they are displayed.

Q: Can I change the layout for individual apps?
No, the setting applies globally to all apps. There is no per-app notification layout option in One UI 7.

Q: Will this setting reset after a system update?
Usually not, but major updates (like from One UI 7 to 8) may reset some settings. It’s a good idea to check after a big update.

Q: I don’t see “Notification pop-up style” at all. What should I do?
First, confirm you’re on One UI 7 (Settings > About phone > Software information). If you are, try clearing the Settings app cache or contacting Samsung support if the option is truly missing.

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