Samsung has officially launched the beta program for One UI 8, its latest customized interface based on Android 16. The beta is currently available for users of the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25 Plus, and Galaxy S25 Ultra in several key markets, including the US, UK, Germany, and South Korea. Notably, the new Galaxy S25 Edge is not part of this initial beta rollout. This update signifies a "new era of software intelligence," with Samsung emphasizing significant advancements in AI capabilities.

A major focus of One UI 8 is the enhancement of artificial intelligence features. Samsung highlights improved multimodal AI capabilities, allowing the AI to recognize on-screen content in real time for more "natural interactions," alongside increased personalization and performance boosts. Specifically, AI Select is now immediate to use, eliminating previous start-up delays. The AI experience within One UI 8 is secured by Samsung Knox Vault. Further AI-driven features include the Now Bar and Now Brief, designed for improved job management, personalized greetings, and suggestions.

Echoing Google's emphasis with Android 16, One UI 8 has been "optimized for the unique form factors across the Galaxy product portfolio." This aims to improve performance, productivity, efficiency, and user experience, particularly on tablets and foldable devices, delivering interactions tailored to users' daily routines. One such enhancement is a new split-screen option that allows users to move one app partially off-screen to the edge while focusing on another, similar to multitasking tools seen on devices like the OnePlus Open. Samsung DeX also sees improvements, with users able to choose optimized display resolutions up to WQHD and rotate the screen up to 270 degrees.

Several native Samsung applications and features receive updates in One UI 8. The Reminder app has been revamped with preset templates, auto-complete suggestions, and an easier way to organize and share to-do lists with a single tap; notifications can also be added via voice commands. The Quick Share interface has been simplified for a more intuitive experience. For camera users, quick controls can be accessed by swiping up or down anywhere in the preview area. The Secure Folder has been enhanced, allowing users to hide apps and halt notifications when it is locked, providing greater privacy.

Accessibility is another key area of improvement. One UI 8 incorporates Android 16's support for Auracast, an accessibility feature enabling hearing aids (including compatible models like the Galaxy Buds 3) and some earbuds to connect quickly to shared audio streams, such as public announcement systems or concert audio feeds. Furthermore, users can now pair and connect Bluetooth hearing aid devices directly within the Accessibility settings. Other accessibility enhancements include options to make on-screen keyboard keys larger and adjust zoom settings using on-screen buttons.

For health and fitness enthusiasts, Samsung Health introduces new features. Users can now challenge each other by setting up running distance challenges. Additionally, the app allows users to set reminders for tracking their food intake, promoting healthier habits.

Galaxy S25 series owners in eligible countries can join the One UI 8 beta program through the Samsung Members app by signing in with their Samsung account. As with any beta software, users should expect potential bugs and understand they are running early software at their own risk. Samsung has indicated that it has worked closely with Google to align the One UI update schedule more closely with main Android releases, potentially reducing the historically protracted rollout times for new One UI versions.

Samsung has announced that the full, stable version of One UI 8 is expected to launch this summer, likely in July, alongside its next generation of foldable phones. These are anticipated to include the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7, and possibly a tri-fold Galaxy G Fold. The company states this new launch "initiates a new rhythm for Samsung’s software evolution with major UX and AI updates," signaling a commitment to faster and more impactful software advancements.