Samsung Confirms One UI 8 Based on Android 16 Is Coming This Summer
Samsung has officially confirmed the release timeline for One UI 8 based on Android 16, bringing relief and excitement to Galaxy users eager for the next big update. In a recent video announcement, Samsung’s Vice President and Head of Smartphone Planning, Minseok Kang, revealed that One UI 8 will begin rolling out “this summer”, aligning with Google’s early Android 16 launch expected in June.
Although the term “summer” is a broad window stretching from June to September, this marks a significant step from Samsung in providing a concrete—albeit general—timeline. It’s a welcome change after the delayed rollout of One UI 7, which faced criticism for inconsistency and slow deployment.
One UI 8: What to Expect
Unlike One UI 7, which brought major UI changes, One UI 8 is expected to be a more polished refinement, focusing on performance enhancements, stability improvements, and subtle design upgrades. This approach could speed up the update rollout process across eligible Galaxy devices.
Beta Program Launch Imminent
Before the stable release, Samsung is preparing to launch the One UI 8 beta program, which, according to recent reports, might begin later this month. The beta phase will allow select users to test Android 16 features on Samsung devices and provide feedback for final adjustments.
Eligible Devices for One UI 8
While Samsung has not yet released the official list of eligible devices, it’s safe to assume that the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy S23 lineup, and newer foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold5 and Z Flip5 will be among the first to receive the update. Mid-range models from the Galaxy A-series launched in 2023 and 2024 are also likely to be included in the update roadmap.
Aiming for a Smoother Rollout
Samsung appears committed to avoiding the issues that plagued the One UI 7 update. With One UI 8 promising fewer UI overhauls and more backend improvements, the company is expected to roll out updates faster and more efficiently.
Final Thoughts
Samsung’s announcement offers a clearer picture for Galaxy users eager to experience Android 16 with the company’s custom interface. While the exact rollout date for One UI 8 based on Android 16 remains unspecified, users can look forward to a summer release, with beta testing expected to kick off very soon. Stay tuned for more updates as Samsung moves closer to delivering the latest software to its global user base.
