Samsung Launches One UI 8 Beta with Android 16 for Galaxy S25 Series

Samsung has officially kicked off the One UI 8 beta program, bringing Android 16 to its flagship Galaxy smartphones.

The beta, which began rolling out today, is currently limited to the Galaxy S25 lineup and is available in select countries.

Samsung Launches One UI 8 Beta with Android 16 for Galaxy S25 Series

Available Devices and Regions

At launch, the One UI 8 beta is limited to the following models:

Galaxy S25

Galaxy S25+

Galaxy S25 Ultra

The beta is available in South Korea, the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Samsung has confirmed that the program will expand to additional devices in the coming weeks. These include:

Galaxy Z Fold6

Galaxy Z Flip6

Galaxy S24 series

Galaxy Tab S9 series

The beta rollout will also gradually reach more countries ahead of the stable release, which is expected later in 2025.

Key Features of One UI 8

One UI 8 introduces a range of enhancements based on Android 16, many of which center around Samsung's Galaxy AI framework. These updates focus on multimodal interactions, proactive suggestions, and improved adaptability for different screen types.

Multimodal Interactions

The system now supports input from text, voice, and visual sources, enabling more flexible communication with the device. This capability is intended to enhance user interaction by allowing simultaneous use of different input methods.

Personalized Suggestions

Samsung is introducing two new AI-driven tools: Now Bar and Now Brief. These offer real-time suggestions based on user activity, location, and calendar data. The aim is to surface relevant reminders, app shortcuts, and task recommendations in a contextual manner.

Optimized UI for Various Devices

One UI 8 adjusts its layout based on the device type-standard smartphone, foldable, or tablet. This ensures that multitasking and app interactions are intuitive regardless of screen size or orientation.

Privacy and Data Processing Options

Samsung is emphasizing user control over data processing in this update. One UI 8 features hybrid AI, allowing users to choose between on-device and cloud-based processing for certain features. Additionally, Samsung Knox Vault ensures that sensitive data related to AI usage is securely stored. These additions are designed to provide greater transparency and flexibility in how personal information is managed.

Additional System Improvements

Beyond the core AI and UI updates, One UI 8 also introduces new quality-of-life features aimed at enhancing the overall user experience:

Auracast Support

Auracast, a broadcast audio technology using Bluetooth LE Audio, is now supported. This allows users to share audio to multiple compatible devices-such as Galaxy Buds or hearing aids-through QR codes, removing the need for manual pairing.

Improved Customer Support

Service requests can now be initiated through QR or NFC codes, simplifying the process of registering a device for repair or technical assistance. This feature is accessible through the Samsung Account system and aims to reduce wait times at service centers.

Redesigned Reminder App

The Reminder app has received a visual update with improved usability. It includes features for managing to-do lists, planning travel, and adding reminders via voice commands.

Streamlined File Sharing

Quick Share has been enhanced to allow users to send and receive files with a single tap through the Quick Settings panel, reducing steps for common file transfer tasks.