Samsung has revealed some major updates ahead of its upcoming summer product launch. In a surprise announcement, the company confirmed that the new One UI 8 software will launch alongside its next generation of foldable smartphones.
This marks a quicker-than-expected shift to One UI 8, which is built on Android 16—a system still in its testing phase. The announcement also hints at exciting new features powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and further improvements to Samsung’s unique folding devices.
One UI 8 to arrive sooner than expected
Samsung shared the news on May 13 through its official Newsroom platform. The company confirmed that an early access beta for One UI 8 is now available, with the final version launching this summer on the brand’s upcoming foldable phones. This is a notable move, considering One UI 7 was released just last year and usually stays active longer before a major update.
One UI 8 will be based on Android 16, which is currently in development. Android 16 began testing in January 2025, with a wider software development kit (SDK) release planned for the second quarter of the year. The most recent beta version, Beta 4.1, was only launched a few weeks ago.
New Android versions are normally released publicly in late Q3. So, Samsung’s choice to debut One UI 8 on its foldable phones this summer means the rollout is happening faster than usual. This shows how eager Samsung is to introduce new experiences and improve its devices before the usual Android update schedule.
Smart features and AI upgrades are coming
Samsung says One UI 8 will feature new AI-powered tools designed to make daily phone use “smarter and more convenient.” These updates will apply to the new foldable and a wider range of Galaxy devices in different shapes and sizes.
Some updates include improvements to the Now Bar and Now Brief, two main features introduced in One UI 7. These tools offer quick access to important information and updates. Thanks to AI, they will become more personal and adaptive in One UI 8. Samsung hasn’t given full details yet, but users can expect more tailored recommendations and smart suggestions based on usage habits.
Another small but important update includes a new setting that lets users choose whether to keep all AI data processing on their devices. This offers greater control over privacy, although Samsung has not yet explained how this will work in detail.
If you’re eager to try One UI 8 before its full launch, you can join the beta programme via the Samsung Members app. However, it’s only open to users in Germany, Korea, the UK, and the US. You’ll also need to use a Samsung Galaxy S25, S25+, or S25 Ultra to participate.
Foldable phones set for summer release
Alongside the One UI 8 news, Samsung confirmed that its next foldable phones will arrive this summer. These will be the Galaxy Z Flip7 and Galaxy Z Fold7. Both models are expected to launch during the northern hemisphere’s summer season between June and August.
While Samsung hasn’t shared detailed specs yet, the announcement confirms its continued commitment to its foldable range. There have also been rumours about the possibility of a new triple-folding device, although this hasn’t been confirmed.
The new foldable will be the first to launch with One UI 8 out of the box, followed by a gradual rollout of the software update to other Galaxy phones. This means that even if you’re not planning to buy a new foldable, your existing Galaxy device could benefit from the improved features later in the year.
Samsung’s early push for One UI 8 and its next-gen foldable shows that the tech giant is aiming to stay ahead of the curve, offering smarter software and more flexible devices for users worldwide.
