Samsung Rolls Out One UI 8 Update: New Features, Global Availability & What’s Next
The happiest moment for smartphone users is when a major software update arrives on their phone. Now Samsung has officially started rolling out its One UI 8 update, which is based on Android 16. Starting with the Galaxy S24 series, this update will gradually reach other eligible devices along with the Galaxy S25. This update adds new AI features, improved split-screen mode and advanced notification tools that make daily usage more smooth and powerful. But the biggest thing is that its global availability remains a question mark.
One UI 8 Update for Galaxy S24 and Other Devices
Samsung has started rolling out the One UI 8 update for its Galaxy S24 users. This is the same update that was introduced with the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7, and Galaxy S25 FE at the beginning of the year. Now the company is step by step taking this update to its older flagship models as well so that more Samsung users can take advantage of it. This update has already been launched in Korea with firmware version S92xNKSU4CYI7, but there is no official clarity on the timeline of the global rollout yet.
AI Features in One UI 8 Update
AI is in high demand in today’s smartphone world, and Samsung has captured this perfectly. The One UI 8 update brings a context-aware AI system using Google Gemini that learns your daily habits and usage patterns. You no longer need to constantly jump between apps, as the phone’s AI will take care of your tasks. Whether it’s reminders, smart suggestions, or shortcuts – everything will be set according to your daily routine. Simply put, your phone is about to become a true lifestyle assistant.
And the most interesting thing is that the features Samsung first introduced in the Galaxy S25 series, like Generative Edits and Chat Assist, are now also available on older Samsung phones. This means you don’t have to worry about buying a new flagship phone, yet you’ll still get the same advanced experience.
Split Screen and Now Bar Improvements in One UI 8 Update
Samsung has taken the multitasking experience to the next level. The traditional split screen only allowed a 50:50 ratio, but the One UI 8 update brings a new flexible split screen mode. You can now minimize an app by dragging it to the edge of the screen, freeing up more space for the primary app. This feature is similar to OnePlus’s Open Canvas, but Samsung has made it more fluid in its own way.
The Now Bar and Now Brief have also received new avatars. It now supports live notifications, giving you real-time updates across multiple apps. This is perfect for users who want to stay connected every moment on their phone.
One UI 8 Eligible devices:
Galaxy S25 series
Galaxy S24 series
Galaxy Z Fold6
Galaxy Z Flip6
Galaxy S24 FE
Galaxy S23 series
Galaxy Z Fold5
Galaxy Z Flip5
Galaxy S23 FE
Galaxy S22 series
Galaxy Z Fold4
Galaxy Z Flip4
Galaxy S21 FE
Galaxy Tab S10 series
Galaxy Tab S10 FE
Galaxy Tab S10 Lite
Galaxy Tab S9 series
Galaxy Tab S9 FE
Galaxy Tab S8 series
Galaxy A56 5G
Galaxy A36 5G
Galaxy A26 5G
Galaxy A17 5G
Galaxy A17
Galaxy A07
Galaxy A06 5G
Galaxy A55 5G
Galaxy A35 5G
Galaxy A25 5G
Galaxy A16 5G
Galaxy A16
Galaxy A15 5G
Galaxy A06
Galaxy A54 5G
Galaxy A34 5G
Galaxy A73 5G
Galaxy A53 5G
Galaxy A33 5G
Samsung Working on One UI 8.5: What’s Coming Next
While the One UI 8 update is currently rolling out, reports suggest Samsung is also working on a new One UI 8.5 version. This update will reportedly bring visual changes similar to Apple iOS 26. The Settings app is being given a compact design, with subtitles removed and the search bar shifted to the bottom. Subtle gradient effects and drop shadows give the new interface a modern look.
The Phone app is also being redesigned. The Dialer, Call Log, and Contacts tabs will now be housed within a pill-shaped dock, and a drop shadow effect has been added to the call button. The most exciting addition is a new Direct Voicemail feature that will provide live transcription, similar to Apple’s Live Voicemail.
The Device Care section is also being updated, with wider and more readable battery, memory, and storage indicators. Previous emoji indicators will now be replaced by plain text status, creating a clean and professional look.
What This Means for Samsung Users
If you’re a Samsung Galaxy user, the One UI 8 update is going to give your phone a new lease on life. Whether you’re a multitasker, a fan of AI tools, or a design aficionado, this update has something for everyone. Global users will have to wait a little longer, but after the Korea rollout, it’s clear that the update will gradually reach every region.
And the great thing is that Samsung is also offering advanced features to its older devices, and that is a customer-centric approach. It clearly indicates that Samsung is not only interested in selling new phones, but also wants to provide its older loyal customers with a flavor of the latest technology.
Conclusion
Samsung’s One UI 8 update is another major step towards smarter, AI-powered smartphones. This update is not only for Galaxy S24 and S25 users, but will gradually expand to older devices as well. New AI tools, flexible split screen, live notifications, and redesigned apps make it a complete package. The new One UI 8.5 version will also introduce more sophisticated design enhancements based on Apple iOS.
This update clearly confirms that Samsung is dedicated to offering the best long-term experience to its users. All we do now is wait for global availability, when all Samsung users will be able to enjoy this new experience.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. US News Weeks does not confirm the accuracy or inaccuracy of this information. Update availability, features, and rollout schedule will be confirmed based on official Samsung announcements.
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