Android 16 Developer Preview Is Here: What It Means for Samsung Galaxy Users
On November 19, Google officially unveiled the Android 16 Developer Preview, signaling the start of the development process for the next major Android version. While this is an early look at what’s to come, Samsung Galaxy users are already curious about when they’ll see Android 16 on their devices. Here’s everything you need to know about Samsung’s Android 16 update and One UI 8 timeline.
Android 16 and Samsung Galaxy: When to Expect the Update
Samsung is known for delivering timely updates to its devices, and Android 16 will likely follow the same pattern. The Android 16-based One UI 8 update is expected to roll out to Samsung Galaxy devices in the second half of 2025.
Currently, users are waiting for Samsung’s One UI 7 Beta Program, which will bring Android 15 to eligible Galaxy smartphones and tablets. However, Samsung seems to be running a bit behind schedule this year, with the One UI 7 Beta yet to begin. The public release of One UI 7 is expected in early 2024.
Improved Software Support from Samsung
Samsung has raised the bar for software updates in recent years, offering:
- 6 years of OS and security updates for most devices.
- 7 years of updates for flagship models, starting with the Galaxy S24 series.
If your Galaxy device was launched with Android 14, it’s guaranteed to receive Android 16, even if it’s an entry-level model. For mid-range and flagship devices, there’s no doubt about eligibility.
Eligible Samsung Galaxy Devices for Android 16
Here’s a list of Samsung Galaxy smartphones and tablets likely to receive the Android 16-based One UI 8 update:
Galaxy S Series
- Galaxy S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra
- Galaxy S23, S23+, and S23 Ultra
- Galaxy S24, S24+, and S24 Ultra
Galaxy Z Fold and Flip Series
- Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4
- Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5
- Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6
Galaxy S FE Series
- Galaxy S21 FE
- Galaxy S23 FE
- Galaxy S24 FE
Galaxy A Series
- Galaxy A33, A53, and A73
- Galaxy A14, A24, A34, and A54
- Galaxy A15, A25, A35, and A55
- Galaxy A06 and A16
Galaxy Tab Series
- Galaxy Tab S8, S8+, and S8 Ultra
- Galaxy Tab S9, S9+, and S9 Ultra
- Galaxy Tab S10+ and S10 Ultra
Note: This list is based on Samsung’s current update policy and is not officially confirmed by Samsung.
A Noteworthy Exclusion: Galaxy S21 Series
The Galaxy S21 FE is included in the eligible devices list, but the standard Galaxy S21 series is not. Here’s why:
- The Galaxy S21 FE launched with Android 12 and is eligible for four OS updates, including Android 16.
- The Galaxy S21 series started with Android 11, making Android 15 its final major update.
The Road Ahead
While Android 16 is still in its early stages, the focus for now is on One UI 7 Beta, which will bring Android 15 to Samsung devices. The official rollout of Android 15 is expected to start after the Galaxy Unpacked event, rumored for late January 2024.
As Google and Samsung continue to streamline their software development processes, Galaxy users can look forward to even better update experiences in the coming years.
Stay tuned for more updates as we cover the latest developments in Samsung’s One UI and Android ecosystem!
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