Samsung Adds FIFA World Cup 2026 Animations to Galaxy Lock Screen

Samsung has updated the Always-on Display app for Galaxy smartphones to version 8.9.36.23, adding themed animations for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The update affects the Now Bar, which will now display visual notifications for key match moments—goals scored and red cards.

The animations were extracted from the latest app version and showcased in a preview. When a goal is scored, a ball entering the net along with a confetti effect will appear on the screen. A red card will be displayed on the side, likely next to the name of the team receiving the dismissal. To enable this feature, users must activate the Now Bar in Always-on Display settings and enable sports notifications in Google Discover.

The update is available via the Galaxy Store and is compatible with devices running One UI 8.5. The animations may also appear on older models if a corresponding update is released. The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off this week and will be hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico—the first time the tournament spans three countries since 1994.