Samsung is rolling out the next chapter for its Galaxy ecosystem with One UI 8, the company’s latest software suite built on the foundation of Android 16. This update represents a significant step forward, focusing on deeper artificial intelligence integration, next-generation security, and refined productivity tools. For users wondering about the Samsung One UI 8 release date, supported devices, and new features, this guide provides a comprehensive overview. The update officially debuted with the launch of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 series in July 2025, signaling a new era for Samsung’s software strategy.
This release is the result of a close and early collaboration with Google, ensuring that Android 16’s core architecture is seamlessly woven into the One UI framework. The outcome is a sophisticated software experience that leverages multimodal AI to understand user context, introduces a fortress of security enhancements, and delivers powerful productivity tools. This update is a key part of the latest gadgets trends and reviews, as software is just as important as hardware.
One UI 8 also marks a fundamental shift in Samsung’s release strategy. Major new versions will now debut mid-year with the latest Galaxy Z series foldables, elevating them as the premier platform for software innovation. This change is made possible by Samsung’s adoption of Google’s more efficient trunk-based development model, which promises to accelerate update delivery across the board. For millions of Galaxy users, One UI 8 is not just another update it’s the start of a smarter, safer, and more productive mobile experience.
One UI 8 Release Schedule: When to Expect the Update
Samsung has outlined a clear, phased rollout for One UI 8, ensuring its newest devices lead the charge while a vast number of existing Galaxy smartphones and tablets receive the update in a timely manner.
The Stable Rollout: A Phased Approach Starting in September
Samsung has officially confirmed that the public, stable version of One UI 8 will begin its global rollout in September 2025. The update process will start with the company’s flagship Galaxy S25 series, which includes the Galaxy S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, and S25 Edge.
Following the initial release, the update will be expanded sequentially to other eligible devices. Samsung aims to have One UI 8 deployed across most compatible Galaxy S, Z, A, and Tab series devices by the end of the year. Despite a thorough beta testing period, the company has reiterated its commitment to the September launch, assuring users that the public release is on track.
The One UI 8 Beta Program: An Early Look
For users eager to experience the new features ahead of the public release, Samsung is running a comprehensive One UI 8 Beta Program. This program is expanding in phases to include more devices and regions.
- Phase 1 (May 2025): The beta first opened exclusively for the Galaxy S25 series.
- Phase 2 (August 2025): The program expanded significantly around August 11, granting beta access to owners of the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy Z Fold 6, and Galaxy Z Flip 6.
- Phase 3 (September 2025): A third wave of beta access is scheduled for September, bringing the preview to the Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy Z Fold 5, Galaxy Z Flip 5, and popular mid-range models like the Galaxy A55, A54, A36, and A35.
This One UI 8 beta expansion shows a strategic testing process, with the primary stability being validated on the newest hardware before rolling out to older devices.
How to Join the Beta Program
Participation in the One UI 8 Beta Program is managed through the Samsung Members app. The program is available in select countries, including Germany, India, Poland, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
One UI 8 Supported Devices: The Complete Eligibility List
Samsung’s software update policy provides a clear framework for eligibility. Flagship devices launched since 2022 are guaranteed four generations of Android OS upgrades, while the Galaxy S24 series and newer flagships receive an industry-leading seven years of OS updates.
The following table provides a definitive list of Galaxy devices confirmed or projected to receive the One UI 8 (Android 16) update.
| Series | Device Name |
|---|---|
| Galaxy S | S25 Series, S24 Series, S23 Series, S22 Series, S21 FE |
| Galaxy Z | Z Fold/Flip 7 (Pre-installed), Z Fold/Flip 6, 5, 4 |
| Galaxy A | A73, A56, A55, A54, A53, A36, A35, A34, A33, A26, A25, A24, A17, A16, A15, A06 |
| Galaxy Tab | Tab S10 Series, Tab S9 Series, Tab S8 Series, Tab S6 Lite (2024), Tab A9/A9+, Tab Active 5 Pro |
| Galaxy M & F | M56, M55, M54, M53, M35, M34, M33, M16, M15, M06 and F56, F55, F54, F36, F34, F16, F15, F06 |
| Galaxy Watch | Watch 8 Series (Pre-installed), Watch 7, 6, 5, 4 Series |
Devices Not Receiving One UI 8
Based on Samsung’s update policy, the Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra will not receive One UI 8, as One UI 7 was their final OS upgrade.
Similarly, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Z Flip 3 are also not on the eligibility list.
For several 2022 devices, including the Galaxy Z Fold 4, Z Flip 4, Galaxy A73, and Galaxy A33, One UI 8 will be their final major OS update.
A Deep Dive into One UI 8’s New Features
One UI 8 is defined by a deep enhancement of the core user experience, with powerful new features centered on AI, productivity, and security. These One UI 8 new features and updates are designed to make your device smarter and more useful.
The AI Revolution: Galaxy AI at the Core
One UI 8 transforms Galaxy AI into the intelligent fabric of the operating system.
- Multimodal AI and Gemini Live: The system can now understand user intent by processing voice, text, and on-screen visuals simultaneously. On the Galaxy Z Flip 7, users can launch Google’s Gemini Live directly on the cover screen for natural, conversational AI interactions without unfolding the phone.
- Now Bar and Now Brief: The Now Bar on the lock screen now integrates with Android 16’s “Live Updates” API, allowing more third-party apps to display real-time information.
Now Brief is an AI-powered widget that provides a curated summary of your day, including weather, events, and reminders.
Next-Generation Productivity
One UI 8 introduces fundamental changes to Samsung’s most powerful productivity tools.
- A New Samsung DeX Experience: In a major shift, Samsung DeX is now built upon Android 16’s native desktop mode. This move, part of the broader August 2025 Google System Updates, ensures better app compatibility and a more streamlined experience. It also supports higher display resolutions up to WQHD.
- Enhanced Split-Screen View: A new 90:10 split-screen mode allows you to dedicate 90% of the screen to a primary app while keeping a secondary app accessible as a thin sliver, perfect for referencing information.
- Redesigned Quick Share: The file-sharing service has been completely redesigned with a full-screen, app-like interface that clearly separates “Send” and “Receive” modes for more intuitive use.
Future-Proof Security
One UI 8 implements Samsung’s most significant security overhaul in years.
- Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP): This new system-level architecture creates isolated, app-specific encrypted storage within the hardware-secured Knox Vault, protecting data used by on-device AI features.
- Quantum-Resistant Encryption: The Secure Wi-Fi feature has been upgraded with post-quantum cryptography (PQC) to defend against “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks.
- Enhanced Secure Folder: Now built on Android’s native “Private Space,” the Secure Folder can hide apps, block notifications, and requires a separate biometric registration for maximum protection.
Practical Impact
For Galaxy device owners, One UI 8 represents a significant step into the AI-driven future. While not a dramatic visual overhaul like its predecessor, this update delivers substantive improvements that make the user experience more intelligent, secure, and efficient.
The alignment with Android 16’s native features, particularly in DeX, promises better long-term app support and a more cohesive ecosystem.
The focus on on-device AI and next-generation security protocols like PQC demonstrates a commitment to privacy and future-proofing user data.
This is a mature, thoughtful update designed to enhance what your device can do for you.
Can’t Wait for the Official Release? Install the Beta Now
If you don’t want to wait for the official release date and have a compatible device, you can join the beta program to experience One UI 8 today. We have a detailed, step-by-step walkthrough that shows you exactly how to install the One UI 8 beta safely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When will my specific Samsung phone get the One UI 8 update?
The stable rollout begins in September 2025 with the Galaxy S25 series. Other flagship devices like the S24 and S23 series will follow in the subsequent months, with most eligible devices receiving the update by the end of the year.
2. Is One UI 8 a major visual redesign like One UI 7 was?
No, One UI 8 is more of an evolutionary update focused on refining the user experience and integrating new features. While there are some UI improvements, the changes are less about a visual overhaul and more about enhancing functionality, AI, and security.
3. What is the biggest change to Samsung DeX in One UI 8?
The biggest change is that DeX is now built on Android 16’s native desktop mode instead of being a completely custom Samsung implementation. This should lead to much better app compatibility and a more streamlined experience in the long run.
4. What is Auracast, and how does it work in One UI 8?
Auracast is a Bluetooth LE Audio technology that allows you to broadcast audio from your phone to multiple compatible devices at once. In One UI 8, connecting to an Auracast broadcast is simplified, often just requiring the scan of a QR code.