Samsung has reportedly begun internal testing of One UI 8, expected to be based on Android 16, for its upcoming Galaxy S25 series.
Highlights
Test builds have been identified on Samsung’s servers, suggesting an earlier-than-usual start to software development.
If accurate, this could indicate a shift in Samsung’s update strategy, potentially leading to an accelerated rollout compared to previous One UI versions.
Early Internal Testing and Development Timeline
According to a tipster, Samsung’s internal One UI 8 firmware has appeared under the build version S938BXXU1BYC1/S938BOXM1BYC1/S938BXXU1BYC1.
While this does not signal the start of a public beta program, it suggests that Samsung is laying the groundwork for its next major update ahead of schedule.
Typically, the company conducts internal testing a few months before releasing a beta version, which then precedes the stable rollout by several months.
This early development has raised speculation about whether Samsung is adjusting its update timeline. If One UI 8 is indeed progressing faster than usual, the company may either introduce the stable release earlier or focus on delivering a more refined software experience at launch.
Expected Features and Improvements in One UI 8
Samsung has not yet shared official details about One UI 8, but since it is expected to be based on Android 16, some enhancements may align with Google’s next OS update.
Android 16 is scheduled for release in June 2025, with manufacturers typically optimizing their interfaces once the software becomes part of the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) on June 3.
| Feature | One UI 7 | One UI 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Visual Performance | Standard visuals and animations | Refined icons, smoother animations, enhanced graphics rendering |
| Multitasking | Basic multitasking tools | Advanced multitasking with AI-driven enhancements and additional customization options |
| External Display Support | Limited support (e.g., one external monitor) | Enhanced integration with full Thunderbolt 5 support on front USB-C ports |
| User Interface & Customization | Traditional UI with standard options | AI-enhanced customization, refined transitions, and improved personalization |
While new features remain speculative, previous One UI updates have focused on AI-powered enhancements, performance improvements, and customization options. Based on industry discussions, potential upgrades in One UI 8 may include:
- Improved External Display Management: Android 16 is expected to introduce better handling of external displays, which Samsung could integrate into One UI 8 for a seamless experience when connecting devices to external screens.
- Refined Visuals and Performance: Users may see enhanced icons, smoother animations, and overall better performance through system optimizations.
- Advanced Multitasking and Personalization: Samsung could introduce new multitasking tools, additional UI customization features, and AI-driven performance optimizations to enhance usability.
Speculations on the Release Schedule
Samsung typically launches One UI beta versions in the latter half of the year, with stable releases following in the months after.
The early appearance of One UI 8 test builds suggests that the company may be preparing for an adjusted release timeline. While it is too early to confirm an exact schedule, the possibility of an earlier beta or stable release remains open.
One UI 7 Beta Expands as One UI 8 Development Progresses
As Samsung begins work on One UI 8, the company is still expanding its One UI 7 beta program, based on Android 15.
The latest One UI 7 beta update has been extended to devices like the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 in several regions, including India, South Korea, the UK, and the US.
Additional devices, such as the Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy Tab S10 series, and Galaxy A55, are expected to receive the update later this month.
Samsung’s structured update cycle now sees overlapping phases of software development, with One UI 7 rolling out while One UI 8 enters early testing. More details about Samsung’s future software plans are expected as Android 16 moves closer to release.
