Samsung to Roll Out One UI 8 with Android 16: These Galaxy S-Series Phones Are Eligible

Samsung is preparing to deliver a major software upgrade with One UI 8, which is built on Android 16. With Android 16 already in early release stages, Samsung is speeding up its own development, hinting at a quicker-than-expected rollout for Galaxy users.

Beta Program Already Live

Samsung has reportedly begun internal beta testing of One UI 8, starting with its latest flagship series — the Galaxy S25 lineup. If everything stays on track, the public beta could arrive as early as late June, with the stable version expected sometime in July or August.

These Galaxy S Devices Will Likely Receive One UI 8

While Samsung hasn’t officially confirmed the eligible models, their software update policy gives us a good idea of which phones will get the update:

  • Galaxy S25 series (S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, S25 Edge)
  • Galaxy S24 series (including the S24 FE)
  • Galaxy S23 series (including the S23 FE)
  • Galaxy S22 lineup
  • Galaxy S21 FE

Notably, the standard Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra are unlikely to be included as they originally launched with Android 11 and may have reached their OS update limit.

What to Expect from One UI 8

Samsung’s One UI 8 brings a refreshed user experience focused on productivity, customization, and AI-powered features. Here are some highlights:

  • Enhanced multitasking: Smarter split-screen mode lets you resize apps with more flexibility and return to minimized windows later.
  • New Quick Share interface: File sharing is now more intuitive, with distinct “Send” and “Receive” tabs.
  • Dynamic wallpapers: The background changes brightness depending on the time of day.
  • Galaxy AI improvements: Features like “Now Brief” and “Now Bar” bring contextual suggestions and smarter notifications.
  • Auracast audio sharing: Stream audio to multiple Bluetooth devices at once, without pairing individually.

System App Improvements

  • Gallery: Now categorizes screenshots like tickets or passes automatically.
  • My Files: More sorting options, with a cleaner and compact layout.
  • Calendar: Updated visuals and better integration with reminders.
  • Reminder App: Offers templates and faster search functions.

Security & Accessibility Boosts

  • Set a different fingerprint for Secure Folder access
  • Hide Secure Folder completely (invisibility + no notifications)
  • Zoom tools and Bluetooth hearing aid compatibility for better accessibility

Rollout Timeline at a Glance

PhaseExpected DevicesTimeline
Internal BetaGalaxy S25 seriesOngoing (June)
Public BetaS24 & S23 seriesLate June–July
Stable UpdateFlagships & FoldablesJuly–August 2025

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