August 11, 2025 : Samsung is gearing up to expand its Android 16-based One UI 8 update to more Galaxy devices starting next month, with a focus on delivering smarter AI experiences and broader hardware support, including its popular Galaxy smartwatches.
Following a quick and efficient beta rollout of One UI 8, a stark contrast to the delays seen with One UI 7 earlier this year, Samsung has now set a clearer timeline for when users can expect the full software update.
One UI 8 to Hit Galaxy S25 Series in September
Samsung has officially confirmed that its flagship Galaxy S25 series, launched earlier in 2025, will be the first to receive the final version of One UI 8. Although an exact release date has not been disclosed, the rollout is expected to begin in September 2025.
The S25 lineup initially launched with One UI 7, and now it is poised to be among the first to transition to Android 16. Samsung states the rollout will begin with the S25 series and then gradually expand to other eligible Galaxy devices.
Beta Program Expands to More Galaxy Devices
In addition to the upcoming stable release, Samsung has revealed its beta testing roadmap for One UI 8. Starting next month, users of the following devices will be eligible to join the beta program via the Samsung Members app:
Galaxy S23 Series
Galaxy Z Fold5
Galaxy Z Flip5
Galaxy A36 5G
Galaxy A55 5G
Galaxy A35 5G
Galaxy A54 5G
This wider beta availability will allow Samsung to gather real-world feedback and ensure a smoother final release for a broader range of users.
Smarter AI, Seamless UX: What’s New in One UI 8
Built on Android 16, One UI 8 brings a slew of enhancements powered by Samsung’s AI technology. The update emphasizes multimodal intelligence, allowing the system to understand user behavior and context in real-time, resulting in more intuitive interactions and personalized experiences.
Features such as smarter notifications, enhanced device automation, and context-aware recommendations aim to make Galaxy devices feel more adaptive and proactive than ever before.
Galaxy Watch Series to Receive One UI 8 Watch Update
Samsung also announced that its One UI 8 Watch update will roll out to more wearable devices later this year. While the Galaxy Watch 8 series will be the first to receive the upgrade, older models in the Galaxy Watch family are also expected to be included in the update cycle.
Samsung Beats Google to Android 16 Rollout
Interestingly, Samsung may outpace Google in deploying Android 16. The tech giant’s own Pixel 10 series, expected later this month, will not be the first to feature Android 16 out of the box — marking a notable shift in the Android launch hierarchy.
Samsung’s focus on timely updates and AI-driven innovation is evident in its One UI 8 strategy. With a phased rollout planned for premium smartphones and wearables, the brand continues to set the pace for Android customization and user experience.