One UI 8 Beta Expands to More Galaxy Devices
- Samsung rolls out One UI 8 beta to Galaxy S24, Z Fold6, and Flip6, with AI-driven features and broader device support arriving in September.
Wider Beta Access for Samsung Users
Samsung has announced the expansion of its One UI 8 beta program, bringing its latest Android 16-based interface to more Galaxy devices. Starting the week of August 11, the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy Z Fold6, and Galaxy Z Flip6 will be eligible for the beta in South Korea, the U.S., the U.K., and India. This marks the first time devices outside the Galaxy S25 lineup gain access to the new software. In September, the beta will extend to additional models including the Galaxy S23 series, Z Fold5, Z Flip5, A36 5G, A55 5G, A35 5G, and A54.
Users interested in testing the beta can register through the Samsung Members app. Once enrolled, the update will be available as an over-the-air installation. Samsung emphasizes that beta builds may contain bugs and recommends backing up data beforehand. The final version of One UI 8 is expected to begin rolling out in September, starting with the Galaxy S25 series.
Key Features of One UI 8
One UI 8 introduces several enhancements focused on AI, usability, and device integration. The update includes multimodal capabilities that allow the system to interpret real-time context and support more natural interactions. When paired with Galaxy Buds3 or Buds3 Pro, users can activate Google’s Gemini assistant via voice or a long press on either earbud. This integration reflects Samsung’s aim to create a seamless bridge between its hardware ecosystem and third-party AI platforms.
The interface has been optimized for various device form factors, improving productivity and offering proactive suggestions tailored to individual routines. Features like Now Bar and Now Brief deliver curated insights based on user behavior. Samsung also highlights improvements to apps such as Calendar, Reminder, and My Files, along with enhanced split-screen multitasking and Quick Share functionality.
Smartwatch and Mid-Range Support
Later this year, One UI 8 Watch will expand beyond the Galaxy Watch8 series to additional models. The update will bring motivational health features and a more refined interface, aiming to unify the user experience across Samsung’s wearable ecosystem. This move aligns with the broader strategy of extending AI-driven enhancements to more devices without requiring hardware upgrades.
Samsung’s inclusion of mid-range models like the A-series in the beta program signals a shift toward democratizing access to its latest software. While flagship devices receive updates first, the company appears committed to supporting a wider range of users. The beta rollout is geographically limited for now, but further expansion may follow depending on feedback and stability.
Additional Insight: Auracast and AI-Agnostic Design
One UI 8 also introduces support for Auracast, a broadcast audio technology based on Bluetooth LE Audio. This allows multiple compatible devices—such as Galaxy Buds and hearing aids—to join a shared audio stream via QR code scanning, simplifying group listening experiences. The implementation underscores Samsung’s focus on accessibility and convenience.
Interestingly, One UI 8 is designed to be AI-agnostic, capable of working with various assistants beyond Google’s Gemini. This flexibility may prove beneficial as users increasingly rely on different AI platforms across their devices. Samsung’s approach suggests a future where mobile interfaces adapt dynamically to user preferences, regardless of the underlying AI provider.
