Samsung Electronics has announced the expansion of its One UI 8 beta programme, bringing its next-generation software to a wider range of Galaxy devices. The update introduces enhanced artificial intelligence (AI) features designed to make everyday routines simpler, while offering more natural ways for users to interact with their devices.
The beta programme was first introduced in May with the launch of the Galaxy S25 series. Starting next week, Samsung will extend participation to owners of the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy Z Fold6 and Galaxy Z Flip6 in Korea, the United States, the United Kingdom and India.
By September, the programme will be further broadened to include more devices, such as the Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy Z Fold5, Galaxy Z Flip5, Galaxy A36 5G, Galaxy A55 5G, Galaxy A35 5G and Galaxy A54. Eligible users can register for the beta version through the Samsung Members app.
Smarter AI experiences
One UI 8 builds on Samsung’s vision of multimodal AI, where devices respond to real-time context and enable more intuitive communication. The system is designed to integrate seamlessly across Galaxy smartphones, foldables and wearables.
When paired with Galaxy Buds3 or Buds3 Pro, users can activate Google’s Gemini assistant either by voice or by long-pressing on the earbuds. This feature highlights Samsung’s growing emphasis on hands-free, personalised productivity tools.
The company says One UI 8 goes beyond simple convenience, offering proactive suggestions tailored to individual habits. This could range from recommending health-focused reminders to enhancing multitasking experiences on foldable devices.
Preparing for wider rollout
Samsung confirmed that the official release of One UI 8 is scheduled to begin in September, starting with the Galaxy S25 series. The software will then be rolled out gradually to other eligible devices.
The firm highlighted the importance of community involvement in shaping the update. Feedback gathered from beta testers will be incorporated into the final version, ensuring improvements reflect real-world user experiences.
In addition to smartphones and foldables, Samsung plans to expand One UI 8 Watch beyond the Galaxy Watch8 series later this year. The update will introduce motivational health-tracking features and a more refined, intuitive interface for Galaxy smartwatches, broadening access to its evolving ecosystem.
Expanding the Galaxy ecosystem
Industry analysts note that Samsung’s latest move reflects its ambition to deepen the integration of AI within its Galaxy ecosystem. By extending One UI 8 to mid-range devices like the Galaxy A series, the company is making its advanced software accessible to a larger audience, beyond flagship users.
With competition intensifying in the AI-driven smartphone space, Samsung’s bet on contextual, multimodal interactions is seen as a step towards redefining how users engage with their devices.
As the official release approaches, Samsung is positioning One UI 8 as a unifying software layer across smartphones, foldables and wearables – a strategy that could strengthen its standing in both premium and mid-tier markets.
