Samsung has begun the distribution of its Android 16-based One UI 8 beta for its flagship Galaxy S25 series as part of a beta testing initiative. The update is currently available in select regions, including South Korea, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This beta release upgrades the operating system to Android 16 and introduces new features focused on productivity, security, and accessibility, allowing beta testers and developers to evaluate the software ahead of its official launch.
Availability of One UI 8 Beta and Compatible Devices
Information about the One UI 8 beta program was detailed in a recent announcement from Samsung. It is applicable to all models in the Galaxy S25 series: Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, and Galaxy S25 Ultra. The update is being rolled out in Germany, the US, the UK, and South Korea, and users can enroll in the beta program via the Samsung Members app. Samsung notes that the features included in the update may differ by country or region.
The One UI 8 will also be pre-installed on Samsung’s forthcoming Galaxy Z foldable devices that are set to be revealed later this summer.
Enhanced Reminder app and Quick Share features in the One UI 8 Beta
Photo Credit: Samsung
Features of One UI 8 Beta
According to Samsung, the One UI 8 Beta includes significant enhancements centered around artificial intelligence (AI) aimed at improving user experience. The update focuses on three primary components: multimodal functionality, optimization for different device forms, and personalized suggestions.
The multimodal capability allows AI to interpret on-screen content in real time, fostering more intuitive interactions. The user experience has been designed to adapt to the various form factors of Galaxy devices, promoting greater productivity and efficient user interactions. Features like the Now Bar and Now Brief will aid in task management, accompanied by personalized greetings and recommendations.
The AI features within One UI 8 Beta are protected by Samsung’s Knox Vault security system.
For users of the Galaxy S25 series, the One UI 8 Beta includes new functionalities such as the ability to swipe in the preview area to access quick camera controls. Users can also utilize Secure Folder to hide apps and mute notifications when locked. In Samsung DeX, the option to select an optimized display resolution up to WQHD and rotate the screen up to 270 degrees is now available. The improved split-screen functionality allows users to pin an app to the edge of the screen.
The Reminder app has seen enhancements, featuring preset templates and auto-complete suggestions. Users can easily share files, like to-do lists, with a single tap, and add notifications through voice commands.
For accessibility improvements, Samsung enables users to connect Bluetooth hearing aids directly through the Accessibility settings. Additionally, options to enlarge on-screen keyboard keys and adjust zoom settings directly via on-screen buttons are also offered. The release notes further inform Galaxy users of new running distance challenges and the ability to track food intake using reminders in the Samsung Health app.
