Slowly and steadily, Samsung is getting closer to the stable release of the latest Android 16-based One UI 8. The software first debuted with the newest Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 models, out of the box, while the Galaxy S25 series is still testing a few beta versions at the same time. Now, here’s a roundup on what has happened so far.
It looks like Samsung is looking towards improving things with One UI 8, which probably went missing with the previous One UI 7 version, which was indeed the biggest update ever in history. Even after not providing any major visual overhaul or changes, the update is a significant upgrade over One UI 7.
How Samsung’s One UI 8 Has Evolved Since Launch
One UI 8, which is going to run Android 16 on top, the journey has been progressing impressively until now, and the company is continuously working on the latest version.
Beginning with One UI 7, Galaxy devices received Now Bar, an amazing feature that basically acts as a new notification system, providing you all the key notifications right on the lock screen or AOD without unlocking the phone. At the same time, the Now Brief is another functionality that guides users throughout their day by providing useful briefings that can be easily accessible via the Now Bar.
With One UI 8, Samsung will be making both the Now Bar and Now Brief smarter and faster. Where the Now Bar will now be compatible with more third-party app-based live activities, the Now Brief can also read aloud the summaries. Also, this functionality already debuted with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7.
Lock screen:
Well, One UI 8 adds new AOD and lock screen animations on one hand; the update further introduces a distinctive Adaptive Lock Screen Clock feature on the other. The adaptive clock feature significantly lets the lock screen clock dynamically adjust itself in order to adopt the object placed in the background. It allows the clock to adjust itself according to the shape of the object in the background.
App revamp:
Samsung is further looking towards improving and enhancing the Galaxy apps and services with One UI 8. These include apps like Calendar that are supposed to be linked with Reminders for a more refined category of applying key information as a reminder and to offer a convenient and useful user experience. Next up, the weather app is also getting a visual overhaul, and lastly, Samsung Internet Browser will be receiving more improvements and shortcut methods for a more efficient search experience.
Other key changes include the inclusion of Android 16’s Predictive Back Gesture, more improved multitasking with Split Screen mode, a more efficient and safe Secure Folder than ever before, the addition of features in Game Booster+, HDR screenshots, and various improvements within the Gallery app.
Connectivity and Security:
Samsung will be integrating Auracast, an audio technology that works on the basis of Bluetooth LE Audio, alongside support for seamless audio connectivity via QR code scanning. Also, for a more convenient process, the company has further linked customer support at repair stores that provides easier and quicker solutions through QR and NFC support, which is accessible using a Samsung account, reducing the stress of filling out forms.
At the same time, Samsung is also looking to prioritize the security of the users. First up, reports have already suggested that, with One UI 8, Samsung could bring a new Alert Center feature that will further enhance overall security, an improved and more enhanced Samsung Knox Vault, and lastly, the newest version will add the Quantum security suitewith One UI 8. Additionally, Samsung is also looking towards integrating Galaxy devices with Android 16’s powerful Advanced Protection feature for a more secure user experience on top.
