Samsung is preparing to take its One UI experience to the next level with the development of One UI 8.0, based on Android 16. Interestingly, this news comes even before the stable rollout of One UI 7.0, which is still under testing and expected to debut shortly after the Galaxy S25 series launch at the Galaxy Unpacked event on January 22, 2025.
One UI 8.0 Beta: What We Know So Far
Samsung is reportedly working on the Android 16-based One UI 8.0 update. References to One UI 8.0 have been spotted in Samsung’s stock apps, indicating that the company is quietly testing the beta version internally. This proactive approach suggests Samsung is staying ahead of its software development schedule.
Key Highlights of One UI 8.0:
- Android 16 Integration: One UI 8.0 will leverage Android 16’s features to offer a smoother and more optimized user experience.
- Enhanced Icon and Animation Features: Rumors point to a decal shader in the One UI Launcher, which could:
- Upgrade icon designs.
- Improve animations for better visual appeal.
- Modify wallpaper textures to match icons and apps seamlessly.
Learn more about One UI 7.0’s release date here.
Why the Early Testing?
Samsung’s strategy of testing One UI 8.0 early aligns with their commitment to delivering timely updates. With Android 16 expected to release in mid-2025, Samsung has ample time to refine its software. The One UI 8.0 beta may even roll out sooner than the One UI 7.0 beta did, allowing the company to gather feedback and make necessary adjustments well in advance.
Explore the One UI 7.0 beta update for Galaxy devices.
One UI 7.0: What’s the Latest?
While One UI 8.0 is grabbing headlines, Samsung has yet to roll out the stable version of One UI 7.0. Here’s what we know about One UI 7.0 so far:
- Android 15 Foundation: One UI 7.0 is based on Android 15, offering performance improvements, new privacy features, and UI enhancements.
- Expected Release: The stable version will likely roll out to eligible devices after the Galaxy S25 series launch.
- Supported Devices: Flagship devices like the Galaxy S24, S23, and even the S22 series are expected to receive the update.
Discover what’s ending with One UI 7.0 in the Galaxy Store.
Check out everything about the Galaxy S25 series here.
What to Expect from One UI 8.0
Potential Features:
- Advanced Personalization:
- New customization options for themes, widgets, and wallpapers.
- Dynamic color schemes and adaptable UI elements.
- Improved Multitasking:
- Enhanced split-screen functionality.
- Better app continuity for foldable devices.
- Optimized Performance:
- AI-powered battery management.
- Faster app load times and system responsiveness.
- Revamped Security:
- Additional layers of biometric security.
- Android 16’s enhanced privacy settings.
Expected Devices for One UI 8.0:
- Galaxy S26 series (launch device).
- Galaxy S25, S24, S23, and S22 series.
- Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip models.
Samsung’s early testing hints at a stable rollout for One UI 8.0 sometime in early 2026.
Conclusion
Samsung’s proactive testing of One UI 8.0, based on Android 16, demonstrates its commitment to innovation and user experience. While the stable One UI 7.0 is just around the corner, the anticipation for One UI 8.0 is already building. With features like enhanced customization, improved multitasking, and optimized performance, One UI 8.0 is shaping up to be a game-changer.
Stay tuned as we continue to track developments on both One UI 7.0 and One UI 8.0. For now, keep an eye on the Galaxy S25 series’ launch to experience the next phase of Samsung’s One UI journey.
