As the rollout of Samsung‘s One UI 8 officially begins in 2026, many Galaxy users have been following the development of this latest version closely over the past several months, as many new devices are being released under One UI 8. The new rollout strategy will see many newer devices utilizing AI technology launched much faster and with far less confusion; however, many users are left wondering which devices will be able to upgrade, which will have a slight impact on the overall excitement surrounding One UI 8.
Most likely, not every model of Galaxy phones will continue being supported moving forward. As Samsung implements stricter policies regarding software updates, older models of Galaxy phones will not be included in future OS upgrades. This has left many long-time users concerned; they are worried that they will have no further updates. It seems Samsung will continue to focus on producing and selling next–generation mobile devices through its implementation of One UI 8 by 2026.
One UI 8 — Who Gets It First (and Who’s Waiting)
Users with flagship models such as the Galaxy S25 or Z Fold7 will be able to access the new features of One UI 8 through the app earlier than users with mid-range devices. The table below contains expected rollout dates for these mid-range devices.
The VIP Treatment: Premium Galaxy Devices
Samsung’s One UI 8 focuses first and foremost on top-end models. The Galaxy S25 family is at the front of the line, with the standard S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra all getting open door access from day one. These top-of-the-line Galaxy phones came with One UI 8 out of the box, offering users the newest experience off the bat.
Foldable tech gets a nod, too. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 are Samsung at its best. And they’re cool concepts too – these are innovative design models illustrating how Samsung’s One UI 8 makes the Android 16 platform a good fit for foldable displays.
The Galaxy S24 lineup is harrying just behind. Samsung doesn’t let its latest flagship devices go without the new updates. Those in possession of compatible models can look forward to seamless transitions to the new UI.
Mid-Tier Reality Check
Mid-range devices in the Galaxy A series have a longer wait ahead. The list also includes sought-after models such as the Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G; however, none are being prioritized. That said, these are budget devices and should get the One UI update three to four months after it is available for flagships.
Differences by region lead to very different speeds of rollout. Some markets realize quicker deployment while others have to wait longer. When mid-range phones get Samsung’s One UI 8, access is also affected by carrier-friendly relationships.
The Forgotten Devices
This major update may exclude some older Galaxy phones. Galaxy S20 series and older Note models may not support the new software requirements. The general Samsung update policy allows for a total of four major Android OS updates.
Some of the Budget Galaxy A series devices with less powerful hardware might also not see it either. For the former, Samsung will judge whether a device is capable of running new features before the user can finally unlock it.
Samsung One UI 8 2026 Update: Galaxy S25 Series Gets AI-Powered Features First
The One UI 8 rollout has begun in earnest, and Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series will be the first to get the new artificial intelligence features found on it. One UI 8 is based on the new Android 16 platform that brings new multimodal Galaxy AI features that allow users to interpret what they see, hear, and type, allowing users to complete everyday tasks faster and more intuitively. Users of the S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra will have access to a new live AI communication feature called Gemini Live, a new Circle to Search with Google for fast answers within an app, and new personalised recommendations through the Now Bar and the Now Brief, providing users with information such as traffic, reminders, and media recommendations based upon past usage patterns.
The One UI 8 Upgrade adds Security & Privacy enhancements through Knox matrix, including Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP), which protects your private data and will also help to identify potential security threats across all your connected devices. User experience with UI improvements to fit with current hardware, such as AI Results View, better multitasking tools, and smarter multi-window support, makes the Galaxy S25 a faster, more connected, and smarter device in 2026.
One UI 8 Rollout Timeline: 2026 Month-by-Month Guide
| Month | Device Category | Rollout Status (2026 Update) |
|---|---|---|
| September 2025 | Galaxy S25 Series | Complete (First wave, flagship priority) |
| October 2025 | Galaxy S24 Series, Z Fold6 / Z Flip6 | Completed (Flagships & foldables updated) |
| November 2025 | Galaxy S23 Series, S22 Series | Completed (Mid-late wave for older flagships) |
| December 2025 | Galaxy A55, A54, A35, A34 | Completed (Mid-range devices start rollout) |
| January 2026 | Galaxy A56, A36, A26 / Other mid-range & budget models | In Progress (Final mid-range wave) |
| February 2026 | Galaxy Tab S9 / S8 / S7 Series | In Progress (Tablet rollout continues) |
| March 2026 | Remaining eligible devices (older A-series, foldables, special editions) | Final Wave (Expected completion) |
READ ALSO: iPhone 17 Pro Max Leaks: These Features Have Left Fans Stunned
Biggest One UI 8 Features You’ll Actually Use
Galaxy AI Gets Smarter
One UI 8 from Samsung employs enhanced artificial intelligence that learns daily habits. The Now Bar provides individual suggestions based on usage patterns. Now Brief delivers context throughout the day.
Multi-modalities of Galaxy AI comprehend voice, text, and visual inputs at the same time. This leads to more natural engagement with your device. Preferences are learned over time, so that the AI becomes more and more helpful.
Enhanced Multitasking & Productivity
Samsung DeX receives significant improvements in Samsung’s One UI 8. The desktop experience now includes widgets on the home screen. Multi-window functionality works more smoothly across applications.
A revamped Quick Share offers faster file sharing. Recently, AI selects it as simpler to copy and paste the message clipboards of messages. They are particularly useful when used on Galaxy Tab series phones and tablets.
Creative & Communication Tools
Portrait Studio also takes stunningly colorful pet portraits! This works well for both cats and dogs, resulting in professional-looking photos. Call Captions makes it possible to turn screenshots of language into readable and accessible text — right at the moment when someone is speaking.
Camera AI features receive substantial upgrades. Photo editing tools become more intuitive with Samsung’s One UI 8. Video recording capabilities also see improvements across Galaxy phones.
Key Features Summary
- Advanced multimodal AI interactions
- Improved Samsung DeX desktop experience
- Enhanced Quick Share functionality
- AI-powered photo and video tools
To see the entire list of Galaxy devices that will receive One UI 8, refer to the 2026 rollout table. This information will assist you in making future upgrade decisions and not missing any features.
Samsung One UI 8 Update List 2026 (Galaxy Devices)
| Device Category | Model | Update Status 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Flagship S Series | Galaxy S25, S25+, S25 Ultra | Updated (first wave) |
| Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra, S24 FE | Updated late 2025 / early 2026 | |
| Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra, S23 FE | Updated October 2025 / ongoing | |
| Galaxy S22, S22+, S22 Ultra | Updated (last major OS) | |
| Galaxy S21 FE | Updated (final supported generation) | |
| Foldable Z Series | Galaxy Z Fold7 & Z Flip7 | Pre-installed with One UI 8 |
| Galaxy Z Fold6 & Z Flip6 | Updated late 2025 | |
| Galaxy Z Fold5 & Z Flip5 | Update expected in 2026 | |
| Galaxy Z Fold4 & Z Flip4 | Update expected late cycle | |
| Galaxy A Series (Mid-range) | Galaxy A56 5G, A55 5G, A54 5G | Updated/coming 2025–2026 |
| Galaxy A36 5G, A35 5G, A34 5G | Update expected 2025–2026 | |
| Galaxy A26 5G, A25 5G | Update expected 2026 | |
| Galaxy A17, A16, A15 / A16 5G, A15 5G | Eligible for 2026 rollout | |
| Galaxy A07 / A06 Series | Update expected 2026 | |
| Galaxy Tab Series | Galaxy Tab S10 / S10 FE / S10 Lite | Updated/rolling out 2026 |
| Galaxy Tab S9 / S9 FE / S9 Series | Updated / rolling out | |
| Updated/rolling out | Galaxy Tab S8 Series | Update expected late cycle (2025–2026) |
Which Older Galaxies Could Be Left Behind?
The Cutoff Reality
Samsung’s update policy typically supports devices for four years. Galaxy S20 series phones, released in 2020, approach this cutoff point. These older Galaxy phones may not receive Samsung’s One UI 8 support.
Note series devices face similar uncertainty. The Galaxy Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra might represent the final Note models to receive major updates. Samsung discontinued the Note line in favor of Galaxy S Ultra models.
READ ALSO: Apple A19 Pro vs Snapdragon 8 Elite: Single-Core Power vs Multicore Balance
Mid-Range Casualties
Budget Galaxy A series models have shorter support cycles. Devices older than three years typically lose eligibility for major firmware updates. This affects popular models like the Galaxy A32 and A42.
Regional variations influence support duration. Some markets get longer support and others shorter cycles. Carrier ties also determine when updates are available to locked devices.
Hardware Limitations
One UI 8 at Samsung can use a lot of system resources. Older devices with less memory and storage can be challenged by new features. Samsung also retests the device’s capabilities to make sure they are eligible before announcing anything.
Android 16 demands more processing power than previous versions. Devices with older chipsets might not handle the performance requirements. This creates natural cutoff points for older Galaxy phones.
One UI 8 & Galaxy AI: What Changes for Foldables
Foldable-First Design Philosophy
Samsung’s One UI 8 is a completely new mobile experience designed for foldable technology. The software is also made context sensitive and instinctively adapts as the fold changes. The perfect canvas for these innovations is the Galaxy Z series.
Multi-screen AI intelligence changes the way users interact with flexible screens. Applications move seamlessly between open and closed positions. The system learns favorite modes for activities.
Enhanced DeX for Foldables
Samsung DeX becomes more powerful on foldable devices with Samsung’s One UI 8. Desktop widgets appear on the home screen for quick access. Productivity workflows improve significantly on Galaxy Z Fold models.
The larger internal displays work better with desktop-style interfaces. Multi-window functionality feels natural on foldable screens. Galaxy Tab series devices also benefit from these DeX improvements.
Fold-Specific Innovations
Taskbar enhancements speed up app switching on foldable Galaxy phones. Optimize with Flex mode for video watching and video calling. Cover display integration plays well with inward displays.
Older Galaxy Phones in 2026: Which Models Are Now Left Behind and Why
Numerous newer Galaxy devices are being updated to Android 16 with the One UI 8 rollout timetable, but several older phones will be left behind by 2026. The Galaxy S21, S20 series, Z Fold 3, Z Flip 3, and a few older A-series budget phones are all unlikely candidates to receive One UI 8 per Samsung’s OS upgrade policy, which typically restricts major upgrades to devices within a specified time frame. While all of these phones will still receive security updates for a limited period of time, none will receive many of the visual updates and AI features of One UI 8.
Due to hardware limitations and Samsung’s support strategy, new AI-based tools and other system enhancements within One UI 8 require more processing power and memory than what the older chipsets can effectively provide. As a result, the users of older Galaxy devices may experience a stop in software level updates (beyond Android 15 or One UI 7) for these devices. The majority of users of older Galaxy devices now see this as a hint to buy a new (and/or updated) Galaxy device that can utilize Samsung’s new and evolving software ecosystem by 2026.
Security Upgrades in One UI 8 — What Matters Now
Android 16 Security Foundation
Samsung One UI 8 is based on Android 16 security model. Monthly security updates “smudge in” more and are a part of the system. Users can now get more granular control over their privacy.
Samsung Knox evolution adds layers of protection beyond standard Android security. Secure Folder receives improvements that make private data more protected. Biometric authentication becomes faster and more reliable.
Real-World Protection Benefits
Financial app security sees significant enhancements with Samsung’s One UI 8. Banking applications work more securely through improved Knox protection. Payment systems integrate better with Samsung’s security framework.
Location tracking controls give users more precise privacy management. App permissions become easier to understand and modify. These changes matter for daily smartphone usage.
How to Prepare Your Galaxy for One UI 8 Today
Storage and Backup Preparation
Samsung’s One UI 8 requires at least 5GB of free storage space. Clear unnecessary files and apps before attempting the update. Back up important photos, contacts, and app data to Samsung Cloud or Google Drive.
Check your current storage usage in Settings > Device Care > Storage. Delete old downloads, clear app caches, and remove unused applications. This preparation prevents update failures.
READ ALSO: Best iPhone 17 Pro Max Cases: Stylish, Protective & Worth Buying Right Now
Network and Power Requirements
A strong Wi-Fi network is very helpful for downloading and installing Samsung One UI 8 quickly without any lag. Do not update major firmware over the air. Before you proceed to install, make sure your battery is at least 80%.
Have your charging cable ready while installing. The update can take 30-60 minutes to install on some devices. Just be sure you don’t interrupt the installation midway.
Pre-Update Checklist
- Free up 5GB+ storage space
- Back up important data
- Connect to stable Wi-Fi
- Charge battery to 80%+
One UI 8 vs One UI 7 — Updated 2026 Feature Snapshot
| Feature | One UI 7 | Samsung One UI 8 (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| AI Integration | Basic Galaxy AI | Advanced multimodal Galaxy AI with real-time suggestions, voice, text & visual input processing |
| DeX Experience | Standard desktop | Improved DeX with desktop widgets, multi-window multitasking, and foldable screen optimization |
| Security | Knox 3.x | Enhanced Knox 4.x + Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP) + Knox Matrix for real-time threat detection |
| Foldable Support | Good | Optimized context-aware foldable UI, Flex mode enhancements, seamless multi-screen AI |
| Battery Life | Standard optimization | AI-powered battery management, adaptive charging, and usage-based power optimization |
| Camera & Media | Basic editing | AI-powered photo & video tools, enhanced Portrait Studio, AI Video editing, real-time AI suggestions |
| Privacy Controls | Standard | Granular app permissions, location tracking controls, secure folder improvements |
| Performance | Standard memory & speed | Faster app launch, improved memory management, smoother animations, optimized for Android 16 |
| Interface & Customization | Standard themes & icons | Modern icon design, enhanced color palette, improved dark mode, advanced theming support |
Performance Improvements
Your daily tasks feel just that much faster with Samsung’s One UI 8. App launch times have been reduced on supported devices. Battery life enhancement A. I learns usage patterns to optimize.
Better memory management on the Android 16 base. Galaxy phones carry with them better resource management for a smoother experience. New and old supported devices benefit from these modifications.
READ ALSO: Samsung’s Upcoming 3D Video Capture: How Galaxy Phones Will Transform XR Headset Experiences
For those devices that have been omitted from the list, stay in tune with the official Samsung announcements. Also, keep tabs on this article for One UI8 news as it continues into 2026!
Visual and Interface Changes
The aesthetic gets a few, but valuable tweaks in Samsung’s One UI 8. Icons have more of a modern look overall while also keeping Samsung’s unique flair. The interactions feel snappier with animation enhancements.
There is an enhanced color palette for more customization. Theming is also more supported on other Galaxy phones and Galaxy Tab series devices. Dark mode gets updates to make it easier on the eyes.
Final Thought
Samsung’s rollout of One UI 8 in 2026 illustrates how far the OEM has advanced toward delivering more intelligent and speedy updates that leverage cloud-based artificial intelligence. Users will find significant improvements in performance, privacy protections, and overall user experience with One UI 8. This update is part of an ongoing commitment by Samsung to develop software for its Galaxy smartphone products that improve user experiences consistent with Samsung’s software strategy over the long-term.
The fact still stands that users of older Galaxy phones will be affected by these changes, as they represent a transition point in the life cycle of older devices. Now that Samsung is focusing more on developing new hardware, it will make One UI 8 more than just an upgrade; it will serve as an indicator of the direction that Samsung intends to take its Galaxy ecosystem as they move into the future, including the next few years of development, all the way through 2026.
FAQs
What is Samsung One UI 8?
In 2026, Samsung will launch the new Samsung One UI 8 software for Galaxy devices with a focus on improving AI offerings and performance and enhancing privacy protection for users.
When will Samsung roll out One UI 8?
The One UI 8 rollout period will likely begin in early 2026, first including the flagship Galaxy devices and then select mid-range devices.
Which Samsung phones will get One UI 8?
The One UI 8 changes are going to be released to newer models first. There will probably not be an update available for older models because they do not have the hardware or cannot support One UI 8.
Why are some older Galaxy phones not getting One UI 8?
Samsung is focusing on releasing its updates to devices that can utilize new AI capabilities, security upgrades, and other system enhancements associated with One UI 8.
Is One UI 8 worth upgrading to?
For consumers who have supportable devices, One UI 8 provides noticeable enhancements to usability, battery life, and intelligence features developed for a smartphone that would not exist until 2026.
Ansa is a highly experienced technical writer with deep knowledge of Artificial Intelligence, software technology, and emerging digital tools. She excels in breaking down complex concepts into clear, engaging, and actionable articles. Her work empowers readers to understand and implement the latest advancements in AI and technology.
