Samsung Electronics is once again pushing the boundaries of mobile software innovation with the upcoming expansion of its One UI 8 beta program. Starting next week, users of select Galaxy devices including the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy Z Fold6, and Galaxy Z Flip6 will be able to access the next-generation interface that blends AI-powered features with sleek, intuitive design.
The One UI 8 update, which made its debut on the Galaxy S25 series in May, brings multimodal capabilities, tighter integration with Galaxy AI, and a more fluid experience across foldables, flagships, and mid-range models.
What Is One UI 8?
One UI 8 is Samsung’s latest software interface based on Android, and it introduces a wide range of enhancements aimed at improving usability, performance, and personalization. Most notably, this update marks a significant step forward in the integration of multimodal AI, which allows devices to understand and respond to a combination of voice, touch, and contextual data in real time.
Key Features of One UI 8
- Multimodal AI: Interact using voice, gestures, and text inputs seamlessly
- Smarter Galaxy AI: Get proactive suggestions and real-time context-aware support
- Improved Design Language: Cleaner layout, more readable fonts, and dynamic color schemes
- Productivity Enhancements: Enhanced multitasking on foldables and tablets
- Smarter Notifications: Prioritized alerts based on relevance and usage patterns
- Tighter Wearables Integration: Particularly with the new Galaxy Buds3 and Galaxy Watch series
Initially, One UI 8 beta was only available to users of the Galaxy S25 series. Now, Samsung is broadening its beta rollout to include a wider range of high-end and mid-range devices. Beginning next week, the following models will be eligible:
Phase 1: August 11, 2025
- Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra
- Galaxy Z Fold6
- Galaxy Z Flip6
Phase 2: Starting in September
- Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra
- Galaxy Z Fold5
- Galaxy Z Flip5
- Galaxy A36 5G
- Galaxy A55 5G
- Galaxy A35 5G
- Galaxy A54
Users in South Korea, the United States, the United Kingdom, and India will be the first to receive access, with other regions expected to follow later in Q4 2025.
Alongside the smartphone beta rollout, Samsung is also preparing to expand One UI 8 Watch to additional Galaxy Watch models. Previously limited to the Galaxy Watch8 series, the update will become available on older wearables later this year.
The new smartwatch interface introduces more motivational health tracking features, improved gesture controls, and enhanced UI consistency across Galaxy devices. This update complements Samsung’s broader strategy of creating a connected ecosystem where smartphones, wearables, and accessories work together seamlessly.
Feedback-Driven Final Release in September
Samsung has confirmed that the stable version of One UI 8 will begin rolling out in September 2025, starting with the Galaxy S25 series. Feedback gathered from beta testers will be incorporated to improve system stability, user interface consistency, and feature usability.
Subsequent updates for other Galaxy devices will follow a phased approach, ensuring compatibility and performance optimization across different models and markets.
With One UI 8, Samsung is future-proofing its mobile experience by integrating AI-driven intelligence into the core of its interface. The update not only enhances day-to-day usability but also builds a foundation for more advanced applications of generative AI and ambient computing.
The move aligns with broader trends in the smartphone industry, where manufacturers are increasingly focused on personalisation, automation, and proactive assistance. By extending One UI 8 to a diverse lineup of Galaxy devices, Samsung is ensuring that more users can benefit from its latest innovations regardless of their device tier.
Samsung’s expansion of the One UI 8 beta program is a strategic move to unify its software experience across devices and price points. With enhanced AI features, more natural interactions, and seamless ecosystem integration, One UI 8 is poised to redefine what users can expect from their Galaxy smartphones and wearables.
As the official launch approaches, feedback from early adopters will be instrumental in refining the final release. For users eager to experience the next generation of mobile intelligence, the One UI 8 beta offers a compelling preview of what’s to come.
Shahriena Shukri is a journalist covering business and economic news in Malaysia, providing insights on market trends, corporate developments, and financial policies. More about Shahriena Shukri.
