One UI 8: Android 16 to Hit Samsung Galaxy Sooner Than Expected

Google has expedited the release of Android 16 this year, and it seems that the excitement is not limited to Pixel devices alone. Samsung has taken significant strides by launching its beta program for One UI 8, the customized version of Android 16, starting in May for the Galaxy S25 series. As we move into the third month of this initiative, the company has rolled out the fourth beta, suggesting that a stable release may be on the horizon.

The definitive One UI 8 made its debut alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7. Typically, the rollout of firmware follows a predictable pattern for eligible Galaxy smartphones and tablets. However, the wait may soon come to an end, as Samsung has begun distributing the One UI 8 Beta 4 to testers across various regions, including the U.S., South Korea, Germany, and India.

What’s New in Beta 4?

The latest ZYGB build, while not as expansive as its predecessors, still packs a substantial update at approximately 1.3 GB. The changelog reveals several bug fixes aimed at resolving user-reported issues from earlier betas, particularly concerning Galaxy AI, Bixby, and select applications.

The One UI 8 Beta 4 update includes a range of fixes and improvements for the Samsung Galaxy S25 (Ultra). / © X/u/TarunVats

In addition to these fixes, Beta 4 introduces key enhancements, such as an update to Samsung’s IMS Service (IP Multimedia System), which is essential for voice over internet and RCS functionalities. Furthermore, the beta now supports full-screen switching during video playback in DeX mode, leveraging the native Desktop mode of Android 16.

Android 16 Could Arrive on Galaxy Smartphones Soon

The release of Beta 4 may signal that Samsung is approaching the final stages of its beta program. If all goes smoothly, the stable One UI 8 could soon be available for the Galaxy S25 (Plus) and Galaxy S25 Ultra, potentially within days or weeks. This would mark a significant improvement over the delays experienced during the One UI 7 rollout.

It remains uncertain whether older Galaxy devices will receive the stable Android 16 update immediately following the Galaxy S25 series or if the beta will extend to additional models, such as the Galaxy S24. However, based on the previous One UI 7 rollout, any gap in update availability between models is expected to be minimal.

While One UI 8 may not boast the same level of grandeur as One UI 7, it introduces a thoughtful array of changes and features, including enhanced camera controls, dynamic wallpapers reminiscent of those found on Pixel devices, and improved multitasking capabilities. Additionally, a sub-major update, referred to as Android 16.1, is anticipated to arrive by the end of the year, although Samsung’s adherence to this timeline remains uncertain.

With the challenges faced during the One UI 7 rollout, it is reassuring to see Samsung actively addressing its shortcomings in One UI 8. Have you enrolled in the One UI 8 Beta? What Android 16 features are you eager to explore once the update reaches you? We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments.

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One UI 8: Android 16 to Hit Samsung Galaxy Sooner Than Expected