Samsung has Started Internal Testing of One UI 8.0 for Galaxy S25 Series

Samsung’s software update timeline continues to accelerate. Hot on the heels of the stable One UI 7.0 release for older flagship models such as the Galaxy S24 and Galaxy Z Fold 6, the tech giant is already diving into the future. This week, new reports confirm that Samsung has expanded internal testing of Android 16-based One UI 8.0 for the Galaxy S25 series, specifically the Galaxy S25 Ultra in South Korea.

Android 16 development timeline for AOSP and OEMs

This rapid development indicates Samsung’s dedication to aligning its software roadmap with Google’s Android update schedule. The early signs of One UI 8.0 suggest the company wants to roll out its next major Android skin much earlier than in previous years.

Let’s break down what this means for Galaxy S25 users and what we can expect from One UI 8.0 based on early leaks, firmware sightings, and Samsung’s software evolution trends.

Stable One UI 7.0 Rolling Out, but Eyes Are Already on One UI 8.0

Just a few days ago, Samsung started the stable rollout of One UI 7.0, based on Android 15, to its older flagship devices including the Galaxy S24, Galaxy Z Fold 6, and Galaxy Z Flip 6. These updates brought several enhancements to system performance, camera software, and privacy controls.

However, Samsung is not slowing down. Despite being in the early stages of the Android 15 update cycle, internal signs already point toward One UI 8.0 being actively tested — and now not just on one device.

Galaxy S25 Internal Testing Goes Global and Local

Earlier, Android 16-based One UI 8.0 was spotted running on the global variant of the Galaxy S25 (model number SM-S931B). Now, the same firmware testing has expanded to include the South Korean version of the Galaxy S25 Ultra (SM-S938N).

The firmware build spotted carries the version number S938NKSU2BYD6. In Samsung’s firmware naming structure, the second letter from the right ("B") indicates a major One UI version, in this case, One UI 8.0.

This not only confirms that Samsung is internally testing One UI 8.0 on multiple Galaxy S25 variants but also suggests that the update’s development is progressing at a faster-than-usual pace.

Samsung May Launch One UI 8.0 Earlier Than Expected

Traditionally, Samsung releases the first One UI beta builds a few months after the launch of a new Android version by Google. For example, One UI 6.0 (Android 14) began public beta testing in August 2023.

However, rumors and exclusive reports now suggest that One UI 8.0 could arrive much sooner. That’s because Google has also accelerated the Android 16 development cycle, with the first Developer Preview of Android 16 already live and public beta releases expected by May 2025.

To maintain its competitive edge and give users access to new features earlier, Samsung may launch its One UI 8.0 Beta Program by mid-2025, possibly as early as June or July.

What’s New in One UI 8.0? What to Expect

While it’s still early and no official changelog has been released, based on Android 16 previews and Samsung’s usual feature enhancements, here are some expected highlights of One UI 8.0:

1. Enhanced Privacy and App Permissions

Android 16 is expected to tighten user control over permissions even further. One UI 8.0 could bring more granular control over data sharing, location access, and background activity.

2. Smarter Notifications and AI-Powered Suggestions

Samsung’s One UI is leaning more into AI. Expect context-aware suggestions, improved smart replies, and notification grouping based on AI categorization.

3. More Advanced Customization Options

One UI 7.0 introduced deeper Material You integration, and One UI 8.0 might take it further with new theme packs, lock screen styles, and always-on display enhancements.

4. Camera and Gallery Upgrades

With each One UI update, Samsung tweaks the camera app UI, photo editing tools, and gallery features. One UI 8.0 might introduce AI-assisted photo enhancements and object removal tools.

5. Performance Boost and Battery Efficiency

Samsung is expected to fine-tune background app behavior, reduce RAM usage, and enhance battery management, especially for high-end devices like the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

Galaxy S25: The First in Line for One UI 8.0

As the flagship series for 2025, the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra are expected to be the first recipients of the One UI 8.0 update, both in internal testing and public beta releases.

Samsung typically uses its latest S-series models to test new Android versions before expanding to foldables and older models. This means that:

• Galaxy S25 series users may get early beta access.

• The stable version could be released before the end of 2025, likely between October and December.

• Other eligible devices such as the Galaxy Z Flip 7, Z Fold 7, and Galaxy A55 could follow shortly after.

How the Firmware Tracking Helps Us Decode Samsung’s Plans

Firmware version tracking is a powerful way to understand Samsung’s update roadmap. For instance:

• The firmware code S938NKSU2BYD6 tells us it’s meant for Galaxy S25 Ultra (South Korea).

• The "BYD6" portion indicates a test build from April 2025.

• The "B" in the fourth position signals the second major One UI build for the device — One UI 8.0.

This method is how tipsters and developers keep tabs on Samsung’s internal testing progress and predict future releases.

Samsung’s Software Leadership in the Android World

It’s worth noting that Samsung continues to set an industry benchmark when it comes to software updates. The company has committed to 7 years of OS and security updates for select flagships starting with the Galaxy S24 series. This promise ensures that the Galaxy S25 series will receive updates all the way through Android 22 (One UI 12).

By beginning internal testing of One UI 8.0 this early, Samsung is signaling that it aims to stay at the forefront of Android innovation, giving users quicker access to new features, better performance, and a more secure experience.

One UI 8.0 Timeline: What to Expect in 2025

Conclusion: The Future is Already in Testing

The Galaxy S25 series hasn’t been on the market for long, but Samsung is already pushing boundaries by preparing its next major software upgrade. With One UI 8.0 based on Android 16 now under internal testing, it’s clear the company wants to stay ahead of the curve and give its users the best of Android — faster than ever before.

Whether you're a proud owner of the Galaxy S25 Ultra or planning to buy one soon, you’re likely to be among the first in the world to experience Android 16’s power, wrapped in Samsung’s beautifully refined One UI 8.0.

Stay tuned for more updates as Samsung gears up for beta testing, new features, and another exciting chapter in its One UI journey.