One UI 8 (Android 16) Beta Is Here: What’s New in Samsung’s Smoothest Update Yet?
Samsung’s One UI is getting a major upgrade—and tech enthusiasts are buzzing. Based on Android 16, the One UI 8 beta update is now rolling out to select Galaxy devices, and it's shaping up to be the smoothest, most polished experience Samsung has delivered yet.
If you're wondering what’s new, which Galaxy devices are eligible, and whether it’s worth the upgrade, we’ve got the full breakdown for you.
🌍 One UI 8 Beta: Where It's Rolling Out
Samsung has started rolling out the One UI 8 beta to the Galaxy S25 series in select regions:
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South Korea
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United States (unlocked and T-Mobile)
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United Kingdom
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Germany
If you own an eligible Galaxy device, you can sign up via the Samsung Members app. The beta build (e.g., S938BXXU3ZYER) is over 3GB, so you’ll need a solid Wi-Fi connection.
📅 One UI 8 Release Date: When to Expect the Stable Version
Samsung and Google are fast-tracking this one. The stable One UI 8 release is expected between June and September 2025, ahead of Android’s usual release cycle.
📱 The upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 will ship with One UI 8 pre-installed, likely debuting in July 2025.
🆕 Key Features and Changes in One UI 8
One UI 8 doesn’t reinvent the wheel—but it refines it. Let’s dive into what’s new:
🔄 Refined Design and UX Updates
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Smoother animations thanks to a new animation engine.
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More responsive multitasking, even when opening multiple apps quickly.
📱 App Overhauls
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Samsung Reminder App: Cleaner layout with easier access to categories, plus travel-focused features.
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Voice Recorder App: Simplified interface, less emphasis on AI, more focus on usability.
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Gallery & MyFiles: Rounded icons, Gaussian blur effects, and a new “Shared Albums” button.
📷 Camera Improvements
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Log Video Recording is expanding beyond the S24 and S25 series—great for content creators.
🆕 New Features to Watch
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Now Brief: Originally hinted in One UI 7, it’s expected to go live on older flagships like the Galaxy Z Flip 6.
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Running Coach: Leaked feature likely aimed at fitness users.
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Lock Screen Settings: Easier management of "Hide content on lock screen."
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Google Sports Notifications: A refreshed UI for live scores and updates.
🔧 Performance and Optimization
One UI 8 is built to shine across all form factors:
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Phones
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Foldables
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Tablets
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Galaxy Watches
It also aligns closely with Android 16’s focus on system optimization, foldable support, and power efficiency.
🪫 Battery Drain Fix?
While not officially confirmed, early testers on X (formerly Twitter) suggest One UI 8 could resolve the battery drain issues seen in One UI 7.
📲 Eligible Devices for One UI 8
So far, the Galaxy S25 series is leading the rollout. But testing has already been spotted on:
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Galaxy S24
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Galaxy S23
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Galaxy S22 Ultra
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Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series
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Galaxy Tablets
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Galaxy Watches (Watch 4–Watch Ultra)
Samsung hasn’t confirmed the full list.
🛠️ Beta Program Details
Want to join the One UI 8 beta?
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Where to join: Samsung Members app
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Who can join: Users in the US, UK, Korea, Germany (more countries to follow)
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What to expect: Occasional bugs and refinements—this is still a testing phase.
🚫 What’s Not Included?
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No One UI 7.1 Update: Samsung is skipping it entirely and jumping straight to 8.0.
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No Material You 3 Expressive UI: Despite Android 16’s design updates, Samsung’s sticking to its own look—for now.
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Some removed features: Suggested images and new clock fonts were axed from the latest beta builds.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Is One UI 8 Worth the Hype?
Absolutely—especially if you're already on a Galaxy S or Z series device. With a focus on refinement over revolution, One UI 8 is shaping up to be Samsung’s best Android skin yet, balancing beauty, performance, and functionality.
Whether you’re a casual user or a tech enthusiast, this update is one to watch.
Need help enrolling in the beta? Drop a comment below or check out the Samsung Members app to get started.