Samsung’s One UI 8 is the newest version of its custom Android interface, built on Android 16. Launched in July 2025 alongside the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, it focuses on smarter AI tools, smoother multitasking, and subtle design tweaks to make your phone feel more intuitive. As of late August 2025, it’s already out on some foldables, with a wider rollout coming soon. This article breaks down everything you need to know in simple terms, based on official announcements and user feedback.
Release Date and Availability
One UI 8 made its debut on July 9, 2025, at Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event in New York. It shipped right away on the new Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 foldables. For other devices, Samsung kicked off a beta program in May 2025, starting with the Galaxy S25 series. The stable version is set to roll out in September 2025, beginning with flagship phones like the Galaxy S25, S25 Plus, and S25 Ultra. Older models will follow over the coming months, with Samsung promising updates for up to seven years on supported devices.
The beta has seen several updates, with the latest (Beta 6) spotted recently, hinting that the final stable build is almost ready. If you’re eager to try it early, sign up via the Samsung Members app, but remember betas can have bugs.
Key New Features
One UI 8 isn’t a huge visual overhaul—it’s more about refining what works and adding smart features. Here’s a rundown of the highlights:
- AI Enhancements: Galaxy AI gets a boost with multimodal capabilities, like better voice-to-text, real-time translation in calls, and AI-powered photo editing. Tools like Audio Eraser (for removing background noise in videos) and the Now Bar (a quick-access hub for notifications and controls) have been improved for faster, more accurate results.
- Design Tweaks: Expect dynamic wallpapers that change based on time or weather, a narrower notification shade for easier one-handed use, and smoother animations. The interface feels more polished without straying from the familiar One UI look.
- Multitasking Upgrades: Especially on foldables and tablets, you can now snap apps into place more easily, with better support for floating windows and split-screen views.
- Sharing and Connectivity: Quick Share is faster for file transfers between Galaxy devices. Plus, new group audio sessions let you share music or podcasts in real-time with friends.
- Performance and Security: Under the hood, it’s optimized for Android 16’s efficiency, with better battery management and stronger privacy controls. Samsung also updated apps like Good Lock for more customization options.
Overall, it’s evolutionary rather than revolutionary, emphasizing AI to make daily tasks quicker.
Supported Devices
Samsung has expanded the beta to more phones, and the stable update will follow suit. Here’s a list of eligible devices based on current info:
- Flagships: Galaxy S25 series, S24 series, S23 series (including FE models).
- Foldables: Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Fold6, Z Flip7, Z Flip6.
- Mid-Range and Others: Galaxy A series (like A55, A35), Galaxy M and F series (e.g., M17, F17), and tablets like the Galaxy Tab S9 series.
Older devices like the S22 or A53 might get it too, but check Samsung’s update policy—devices launched after 2022 generally qualify for major updates. For a full list, visit Samsung’s support site or the Members app.
Beta Program Details
The One UI 8 beta is open to users in select countries, including the US, South Korea, and India. It started with the Galaxy S25 series in May, then expanded to foldables and more. Recent builds show it’s stable, with fixes for bugs in earlier versions. If you join, you can provide feedback directly to Samsung.
Note: There’s talk of a One UI 8.5 coming early 2026 with the next flagships, but that’s still rumors.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong AI features for productivity | Beta still has minor bugs |
| Smooth performance on Android 16 | No major design changes |
| Wide device support | Rollout takes time for older phones |
| Enhanced sharing and multitasking | Some features foldable-exclusive |
Final Thoughts
One UI 8 brings Samsung’s Galaxy ecosystem closer to a seamless, AI-driven experience without overwhelming changes. If you’re on a recent Galaxy device, the September stable update is worth waiting for—it could make your phone feel fresh again. For the latest, keep an eye on Samsung’s newsroom or community forums. If you have a Galaxy, what feature are you most excited about?