If you’re a Samsung Galaxy user, there’s some exciting news that might just make your day. Samsung is now expanding its One UI 8 beta program to even more Galaxy smartphones and smartwatches. This means more people will get to try out new features before the final version is officially released. Sounds cool, right? Let’s take a closer look at what this update is all about, how it can help you in your daily life, and which devices are getting it soon.
What Is One UI 8?
One UI is the name of the software Samsung puts on its Galaxy phones and watches. Think of it as the look and feel of your phone—how things are organized on the screen, how apps behave, and how you interact with everything.
Now, One UI 8 is the latest version of that software. It brings smarter features, better design, and powerful AI (Artificial Intelligence) tools that aim to make your life easier. Samsung has worked hard to make it feel more personal and helpful in your everyday routine.
The update focuses on using something called “multimodal capabilities.” Don’t worry if that sounds a bit complex—it simply means your phone can now understand what you’re doing and where you are in real-time, then respond in a way that feels natural and helpful.
The Beta Program Is Getting Bigger
Samsung first introduced One UI 8 in May with the release of the Galaxy S25 series. But until now, only S25 users were able to join the beta testing program. That’s about to change.
Starting next week, people using the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy Z Fold6, and Galaxy Z Flip6 will be able to join the beta program too. This will be available in several countries, including South Korea, the United States, the United Kingdom, and India.
That means if you own one of these newer models and live in one of these countries, you’ll be able to test One UI 8 very soon—before anyone else gets the full version. And the good news doesn’t stop there.
More Phones Will Get It in September
If you’re not using a Galaxy S25 or S24, don’t worry. Samsung is planning to roll out the One UI 8 beta to even more devices in September. That list includes:
- Galaxy S23 series
- Galaxy Z Fold5
- Galaxy Z Flip5
- Galaxy A36 5G
- Galaxy A55 5G
- Galaxy A35 5G
- Galaxy A54
So, if your phone is on this list, you’re just a few weeks away from trying out the new features too. All you have to do is register for the beta program through the Samsung Members app. It’s easy to do, and you’ll get early access to all the new features.
What’s New in One UI 8?
Now you might be wondering, “What makes One UI 8 special?” Great question! Let’s walk through some of the exciting things Samsung is adding.
First of all, One UI 8 brings smarter AI experiences. That means your device will be able to understand what you need, even before you ask. It uses real-time information like your location, activity, or habits to help you out in simple and useful ways.
For example, if you’re driving and wearing Galaxy Buds3 or Buds3 Pro, you can activate Google’s Gemini AI assistant by just using your voice or by holding down one of the earbuds. This lets you ask questions, get directions, send messages, or check your schedule—all hands-free.
The goal here is to make your day-to-day life smoother and more efficient. Whether you’re working, relaxing, or on the go, One UI 8 wants to make things easier without you having to think about it too much.
Built for Every Galaxy Device
One UI 8 isn’t just about one type of phone. Samsung has designed it to work well across all kinds of Galaxy devices—big and small, flat or foldable.
For example, on the Galaxy Z Fold6, which opens like a book, the new software will help you multitask better. You can do more things at once, like watching a video while taking notes, or having multiple apps open side by side.
On the Galaxy Z Flip6, which folds like a compact mirror, One UI 8 brings smoother animations and smarter widgets, so you get quick info even when the phone is closed.
And for phones like the Galaxy A55 or A36 5G, the update will still give you the smart features, personalized suggestions, and a clean, simple design—so even more affordable phones feel just as modern and powerful.
Making AI Work for You
Let’s talk a little more about the AI part of One UI 8. You’ve probably heard the term “AI” being used a lot these days. But what does it really mean for your phone?
With this update, AI is working behind the scenes to understand how you use your phone and what you need throughout the day.
For example, it might suggest apps or tools based on what time it is or where you are. If you usually call your family in the evening, your phone might automatically suggest making that call at the usual time. If you’re at the gym, it could bring up your playlist or workout tracker.
It learns your habits and helps you save time by offering useful shortcuts and tips—so you don’t have to dig through menus or apps to find what you need.
Galaxy Buds and Gemini Voice Assistant
A cool feature coming with One UI 8 is the improved voice assistant experience when using Galaxy Buds3 or Buds3 Pro. If you own either of these earbuds, you can now activate Google’s Gemini assistant in a very simple way.
Just say the command out loud, or press and hold one of your earbuds. Gemini will pop up and help you with all kinds of things, like setting reminders, checking the weather, sending a text, or even translating a sentence.
It’s fast, easy, and very useful—especially when your hands are busy or you’re on the move.
What’s Next? Full Release Coming Soon
So, when can you expect the final version of One UI 8 to arrive?
Samsung says the official release will happen in September. They’ll begin by updating the Galaxy S25 series first, and then move on to other devices one by one. This gradual release helps make sure everything works smoothly and gives Samsung time to fix any last-minute issues.
If you’re part of the beta program, your feedback is important. Samsung uses your thoughts and experiences to make One UI 8 even better before everyone else gets it.
And there’s more good news for smartwatch users.
One UI 8 Watch Is Also Expanding
Along with phones, Samsung is also updating its smartwatches. One UI 8 Watch is the version made especially for Galaxy Watches. It will first be available on the Galaxy Watch8 series. But later this year, it will also come to more models.
With this new software, Galaxy Watch users can expect:
- More health tracking tools
- Easier-to-use designs
- Helpful tips to keep you motivated and healthy
Whether you’re tracking your steps, keeping an eye on your heart rate, or just checking the time, One UI 8 Watch is made to feel more natural and friendly.
Final Thoughts
Samsung’s One UI 8 is shaping up to be a big and exciting update for Galaxy users. It’s not just about making things look nicer—it’s about making your phone and watch smarter, more helpful, and more personal.
By using AI, simple designs, and smarter features, Samsung is trying to make technology feel more human and useful in everyday life.
If you have one of the supported devices, keep an eye out for the beta program or the official release in the coming months. It’s a great way to explore what’s next in mobile and wearable tech—and maybe even make your daily life a little bit easier.
Thanks for reading! Keep checking back for more updates on the One UI 8 rollout, and let us know if you’re excited to try it out.
Source: Samsung
