WEB DESK: Samsung is getting ready for its next big Android upgrade. Once the company wraps up the rollout of One UI 7, which is based on Android 15, it will shift focus to One UI 8. The new version, built on Android 16, brings a handful of updates and is expected to power many Galaxy phones and tablets in the months ahead.
Just like previous years, Samsung is launching a beta programme to give users early access to One UI 8. This allows participants in select regions to test new features before the stable version rolls out. But if you’re wondering whether your device qualifies, the answer might be a bit disappointing.
Samsung has been working on One UI 8 for a while. Early firmware has already been spotted on devices like the Galaxy S25, Galaxy Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6, and even last year’s Z Flip 5. However, only the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra are officially supported in the beta as of now. The S25 Edge is not included, and neither are any older models.
Going by past trends, this limited launch is not surprising. Last year, the One UI 7 beta remained exclusive to the Galaxy S24 lineup for several months before expanding to other models. It looks like Samsung is sticking to that strategy again. The S25 series is likely to be the only group included in the beta programme for the next few months.
There might not be much room for expansion either. Samsung is expected to release the final One UI 8 update around the same time as the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, which could launch by September or October. And since One UI 8 is a relatively minor upgrade in terms of features, the company may not need an extended testing period this time.
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