One UI 8: In summary
- Samsung’s next major Android skin for its Galaxy phones and tablets
- Based on Android 16 but with plenty of tweaks
- Could launch on Galaxy Z Fold 7, 7 Flip 7 and Z Flip FE
The rollout of One UI 7 hasn’t been exactly smooth for Samsung, with several delays meaning it still isn’t available on all compatible devices.
However, attention has quickly shifted to its successor in the form of One UI 8. It’s based on Android 16, which Google has already begun rolling out, yet looks set to retain a very different look and feel to Pixel phones.
This update is expected to bring smoother animations, better customisation options, and a bunch of exciting new features. If you’re wondering if your device is compatible, when you’ll get it and what upgrades to expect, we’ve got you covered.
When will my Samsung Galaxy phone get One UI 8?
In summary
- Beta now available
- Final version debut on the upcoming Galaxy Z foldables
- Full rollout likely to take several months
After Google officially launched Android 16 on 10 June, we don’t know exactly when One UI 8 (which is based on it) will arrive.
However, with a beta version available since 28 May for Galaxy S25 series phones, we shouldn’t be waiting much longer.
Historically, Samsung has taken about two to three months after the official Android release to start rolling out its One UI updates. That would place the software update around August or September.
One report suggests that One UI 8 will come pre-loaded on the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Fold 7 – both of which are expected to launch in July 2025. Presumably, that also applies to the Galaxy Z Flip FE that’s rumoured to launch alongside them.
Luke Baker
After it debuts, a full rollout to all compatible devices is likely to take a few months, though hopefully not as long as One UI 7.
Looking further ahead, a leaker suggests One UI 8.5 will make its debut on the Galaxy S26 series in early 2026. However, it’s unclear which (if any) features will be held back until then.
Despite announcing several new One UI 8 Watch features, it’s unclear when Samsung plans to roll it out to new and existing Galaxy Watch devices.
Sources: SmartPrix | Tarun Vats via X | Android Authority | SamMobile | Tarun Vats via X (2)
Luke Baker
Which new features will One UI 8 have?
In summary
- Extra customisation options
- Improved animations and smoother visual effects rumoured
- New Galaxy AI features expected
Since One UI 8 is being built on Android 16, you can expect many of those features to be integrated into Samsung’s ecosystem. However, it’s looking like the other changes compared to One UI 7 will be in the form of small tweaks rather than any bigger overhauls.
Here’s everything that’s rumoured to be coming in One UI 8.
Decal shader for enhanced animations
A key rumoured feature so far is the potential Decal Shader feature. This throwback to Samsung’s old TouchWiz days is expected to bring smoother animations and improved visual effects, especially on the home screen and lock screen.
A notable leak hints that this shader could create a ripple effect animation for the lock screen.
Sources: SmartPrix
Real-time call captions
Within an early build of One UI 8, a leaker has spotted a new feature called ‘Call captions’ in the Phone app.
The attached screenshot mentions that it will “show what each person says on the screen during calls. Captions can be useful when hearing is difficult. If needed, inform the other person that the call is being captioned”.
In other words, it converts your speech to text in real time, allowing you to quickly understand what’s being said. While likely to be an accessibility feature designed for those hard of hearing, it could be useful for anyone.
Sources: Tarun Vats via X | Android Headlines
Launcher improvements
We might see improvements to the One UI Launcher experience, including more adaptive wallpapers which blend seamlessly with icons and third-party apps.
This could make home screens feel more cohesive and visually appealing.
Sources: SmartPrix
AI-powered features
As with previous major updates, Samsung will likely introduce AI-powered features to improve photo editing, search capabilities, and user suggestions, making your device smarter and more intuitive.
A hands-on video shows that the new Now Brief feature from the Galaxy S25 series is coming to the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and other 2024 phones. But it’s unclear which other new ones might be added in One UI 8.
Sources: SamMobile via YouTube
New Galaxy Watch features
Samsung has revealed several new features that are coming to One UI 8 Watch, a version of One UI that’s specifically designed for wearables.
Samsung
They are:
- Bedtime Guidance – recommended optimal bedtime based on individual lifestyle and sleep patterns
- Vascular Load – measures the level of stress on your vascular system while you sleep
- Running Coach – personalised guidance and pace tips to help with achieving running goals
- Antioxidant Index – measures antioxidants known as carotenoids that are stored in the skin in five seconds
Sources: Samsung
Looking to buy a new One UI handset now? See our guide to the best Samsung Galaxy phones you can buy.
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