Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra Spotted Running Android 16-Based One UI 8 — Final Major Update Confirmed

One UI 8 Will Be the Final Major Update for Galaxy S22 Series: Here’s What to Expect

Samsung’s popular Galaxy S22 series is entering the final phase of its software lifecycle with One UI 8 based on Android 16. This will be the last major OS update for the Galaxy S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra under Samsung’s three-generation upgrade policy for flagship devices launched before 2023.

One UI 8 Will Be the Last Major Update for Galaxy S22 Series — Internal Testing Begins with Android 16!

Recently, a Galaxy S22 Ultra was spotted on Geekbench running Android 16, confirming that Samsung has already started internal testing for One UI 8. As we edge closer to the official Android 16 rollout in mid-2025, here’s everything we know so far about Samsung’s upcoming software update — and what it means for the Galaxy S22 series.

Internal Testing Spotted: Galaxy S22 Ultra Runs Android 16 with One UI 8

A major highlight in the Samsung community this week has been the Geekbench listing of the Galaxy S22 Ultra running Android 16-based One UI 8. This benchmark test, discovered by well-known leaker @tarunvats33, shows the S22 Ultra carrying the build version S908USQU8GYCB.

This is a test build, not intended for public rollout yet. It is only available to Samsung’s internal teams and partners who are conducting pre-release software validation. The benchmark listing reveals:

• Single-core score: 1581

• Multi-core score: 3680

These scores are decent, considering the software is still in early testing. Performance is expected to improve significantly as Samsung fine-tunes the firmware, optimizes the new animation engine, and fixes bugs before rolling it out.

Galaxy S22 Series: One Last Ride with One UI 8

The Galaxy S22 series was launched in early 2022, and according to Samsung's software policy at that time, the devices are eligible for three Android OS upgrades. That includes:

• Android 12 (launched with)

• Android 13 (One UI 5)

• Android 14 (One UI 6)

• Android 16 (One UI 8) — Final major update

This final update will mark the end of major OS support for the S22 lineup, although security patches and minor feature updates will likely continue into 2026.

Samsung’s newer flagships like the Galaxy S24 series are promised seven years of updates, but the S22 series just misses that policy shift.

Android 16 Release Timeline: What Samsung Users Should Know

Google is expected to officially unveil Android 16 at the Google I/O 2025 event, followed by a public beta rollout. Samsung will integrate Android 16 into its custom skin — One UI 8 — and roll it out to eligible devices in phases.

Here’s the expected rollout roadmap:

• July 2025 – Android 16 and One UI 8 debut with Galaxy Z Flip7 and Z Fold7

• August 2025 – One UI 8 Beta Program for Galaxy S25, Z Flip6, and Z Fold6

• September/October 2025 – Stable rollout begins for flagship devices

• Late 2025 / Early 2026 – Galaxy S22 series receives final update

The Galaxy S22 series might skip the beta program and receive the stable update directly, which has been Samsung’s approach for older flagships in recent years.

What to Expect from One UI 8 (Android 16)

While One UI 7 brought major changes with Android 15, One UI 8 is expected to be a refined, performance-focused upgrade. Leaks and internal builds suggest that the new version will bring:

1. Redesigned Apps & Interface Enhancements

Samsung is focusing on redesigning native apps such as Samsung Messages, Gallery, and Clock for better usability and UI consistency across the Galaxy ecosystem.

2. Next-Gen Animation Engine

One UI 8 will introduce even smoother animations, making transitions more fluid. The new animation engine is optimized for Galaxy hardware, ensuring snappier interactions.

3. Better Multitasking Support

Samsung might enhance features like Pop-Up View, Split Screen, and App Continuity, especially on larger displays like the Galaxy S22 Ultra.

4. Battery Efficiency Improvements

Thanks to Android 16’s improved power management APIs, One UI 8 will likely boost battery performance and background activity optimization.

5. More Lock Screen & AOD Customization

Expect more customization features on the Lock Screen, Always-On Display, and Edge Panels, continuing Samsung’s trend of user personalization.

6. AI-Powered Suggestions

Samsung could expand AI-driven features, similar to Galaxy AI on newer models. Expect more smart suggestions, contextual actions, and enhanced Bixby Routines.

Device Performance: How the S22 Ultra Handles Android 16

The Geekbench scores indicate that the Galaxy S22 Ultra is still capable of delivering strong performance with Android 16. With the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 chipset (depending on region), the phone will be able to handle:

• One UI 8 animations and transitions

• New multitasking features

• High-performance gaming

• Secure Knox-integrated functions

Despite being over three years old by the time Android 16 is released, the S22 Ultra’s hardware remains future-ready, thanks to 8GB/12GB RAM configurations and powerful GPUs.

Beta Testing Strategy: Why S22 Might Skip It

Samsung often limits Beta programs to newer devices. While the Galaxy S25, Z Flip6, and Z Fold6 will receive One UI 8 Beta, the Galaxy S22 may not be part of the beta phase. Instead, Samsung may push a stable and optimized version directly to older flagships like the S22.

This is good news for users who prefer not to deal with buggy beta builds, but it also means slightly delayed access compared to newer models.

One UI 8: A Refined Upgrade, Not a Revolution

Based on early development leaks, One UI 8 will focus more on polishing and refining the existing One UI 7 experience rather than completely revamping the interface. Expect:

• Incremental feature upgrades

• System stability improvements

• Modern design tweaks

• Stronger security and privacy controls

In essence, One UI 8 is a maturity update. It improves what works, ditches what doesn’t, and ensures a seamless experience for Galaxy users — especially on devices like the S22 Ultra nearing their support limit.

Looking Ahead: Life After One UI 8 for the Galaxy S22

After the Galaxy S22 receives Android 16, Samsung will likely provide two additional years of security patches, up to early 2027. However, there will be:

• No Android 17 or One UI 9

• No new One UI features post One UI 8.1 (if released)

• Only minor security and bug fix updates via OTA

This marks the end of major development for the S22 line, so users planning to hold on should be prepared for a feature-stable software experience moving forward.

Should You Upgrade from the Galaxy S22?

If you're a Galaxy S22 user, One UI 8 might be a good time to evaluate an upgrade. While the S22 Ultra will continue to be a capable phone, newer models like the S24 Ultra offer:

• 7 years of OS and security updates

• Better battery life and thermal performance

• Galaxy AI and real-time translation

• Improved camera hardware and software

Still, if your Galaxy S22 Ultra meets your needs, One UI 8 will bring it as close to current-gen performance and features as possible — a solid final chapter for this iconic device.

Final Thoughts

The Galaxy S22 series is set to receive its final major update with Android 16-based One UI 8, and internal testing has already begun. While One UI 8 may not revolutionize the experience, it promises essential refinements, enhanced animations, and performance improvements — ensuring the S22 Ultra ends its software journey on a high note.

As the Galaxy Z Flip7 and Z Fold7 prepare to launch with Android 16 this July, Samsung fans can look forward to a fresh wave of One UI enhancements and features. For Galaxy S22 users, One UI 8 will be the final evolution — a farewell that ensures the device stays relevant for years to come.