What you need to know
Samsung appears to be enhancing user privacy in its upcoming One UI 8 Gallery app with an intriguing new feature—a “Private album” designed to discreetly store photos and videos. Currently in beta testing, this feature is nestled within the hidden “Labs” section of the app, indicating that it may not make the final cut for the official release.
Insider reports suggest that the Private album could serve as a more streamlined alternative to the existing Secure Folder, specifically tailored for managing visual content without the complexities of a full-fledged secure environment.
As Samsung continues to roll out One UI 7 across the U.S., whispers of its successor, One UI 8, are already circulating. Built on the forthcoming Android 16, One UI 8 is undergoing behind-the-scenes testing, with an anticipated launch following the stable release of Android 16 in June. This update promises to introduce a host of refinements aimed at enhancing user experience.
Notably, a user on social media, @DalgleishGX, has uncovered the Private album feature within the latest One UI 8 beta, suggesting it is designed to simplify the process of concealing photos and videos directly within the Gallery app. This could potentially streamline the user experience by eliminating the need to navigate through the more complex Secure Folder.
However, it’s important to note that the Private album may not be included in the final version of One UI 8, as it currently resides in the experimental “Labs” section. This area serves as Samsung’s testing ground for features that are not yet ready for widespread use.
Initial speculation indicated that Samsung might leverage Android 15’s Private Space API for this feature, particularly given the anticipated enhancements to Secure Folder in One UI 8. This integration would ensure that users’ hidden content remains secure and does not inadvertently appear in other areas of the device.
Secure Folder’s glow-up
While Secure Folder provides robust protection for apps and files, it can feel excessive for those simply wishing to hide a few images. The introduction of a Private album offers a more accessible solution for users looking to discreetly store specific photos or videos without navigating through multiple security layers.
In addition to the Private album, One UI 8 is expected to enhance the overall performance of devices by improving background task management, leading to a smoother user experience. Rumors also suggest the introduction of smarter app suggestions, improved battery management, and increased integration of artificial intelligence throughout the system.
Further leaks hint at exciting new features in One UI 8, including video summarization capabilities in Samsung Internet and an upgraded version of Secure Folder, promising to elevate the user experience even further.
