Samsung One UI 8: Full list of features, eligible phones, expected release timeline and more

India Today

a day ago

Samsung is making swift progress with the development of its next major Android update, One UI 8. Built on Android 16, this new version was first rolled out as a beta update for the Galaxy S25 lineup. Now, just two weeks later, a second beta version has been released for the same series, pointing to a possible early stable release in the coming weeks. If you have been on the lookout for the One UI 8's features, release date, Samsung phones that will get support for this update, you have landed at the right place. Now, without any further ado, let's get into the details.advertisementSamsung One UI 8 release date: When is it coming?Though Samsung hasn't officially confirmed the final release or launch date, reports suggest that the One UI 8 update could be formally introduced in early July during the Galaxy Unpacked event. This is the same stage where the next-generation foldables, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Z Fold 7, are expected to be announced. Interestingly, firmware files with version numbers ending in BYF1 and BYF4 have already been spotted on Samsung's servers, hinting at active testing of the stable build behind the scenes.Samsung One UI 8: Full list of featuresFrom what the beta versions have revealed, the new One UI 8 version aims to offer both functional and visual improvements. For users, this means a smoother experience, smarter features, and a more polished interface.
The software brings easier file sharing via an improved Quick Share panel, a better layout for the Samsung Internet browser, and advanced options in the My Files app to filter content based on the app used to download it. Multitasking also gets a boost. With the new split-screen mode, users can now partially minimise one app to keep it in view while focusing on another.advertisementSamsung DeX has also been improved. Users connecting their phone to a monitor can now adjust screen resolution up to WQHD and rotate the display in various directions for better flexibility. Other apps like Calendar and Reminder have been redesigned to streamline task management, while sample reminders and quick entry options have been added to make planning easier.The Camera app is also getting small but useful changes. A new swipe gesture makes it quicker to access controls from the viewfinder, and there's an easier way to record and review calls directly from the Contacts app.In the wellness department, Samsung Health will now support running challenges in addition to step tracking, and users can set up reminders to log meals to stay on track with calorie goals.On the security front, Secure Folder now offers more visibility controls and deeper privacy settings, including hiding apps and encrypting the folder entirely when locked. Accessibility has been expanded with more control options for screen zoom, mouse navigation through a keyboard, and easier Bluetooth pairing for hearing aids.There are also updates to weather visuals for a more lifelike display and improvements in alarm group management, along with support for Auracast—a feature that lets users stream audio to multiple devices at once using QR codes.Samsung One UI 8: Eligible phones (leaked list)advertisementAs for eligible devices, while Samsung hasn't shared the final list, a number of Galaxy phones are expected to get the One UI 8 update. The Galaxy S25 series will be the first in line, followed by other premium models including the S24 and S23 series, according to SamMobile. Foldable phones like the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Fold 5, Flip 6, and Flip 5 are also likely to get it. Mid-range and budget-friendly phones in the Galaxy A, M, and F series, including models like Galaxy A55, A35, M55, and F16, are also expected to receive One UI 8. Samsung's latest tablets, including the Galaxy Tab S9 and S10 series, are expected to be part of the rollout as well.If all goes according to schedule, Samsung may start rolling out the stable One UI 8 update shortly after the July event. Users with newer Galaxy phones are expected to get the update first, with a wider rollout to follow in phases.