Samsung Kicks Off Android 16 Beta Program for Galaxy S24 Series with One UI 8 Beta 1 Update

Naveen Thakur
16 Aug, 2025

A New Era of Samsung Software Begins

Samsung has officially launched its Android 16 Beta Program for the Galaxy S24 series, marking one of the most anticipated rollouts of 2025. With this launch, One UI 8 Beta 1 is now live, allowing users to experience Android 16 before the official stable version rolls out later this year.

Samsung Galaxy S24 One UI 8 Beta 1 Update Android 16 Rollout
Samsung Galaxy S24 One UI 8 Beta 1 Android 16 Update – Registration, Features, and Rollout

This development comes shortly after Samsung released the August 2025 security patch for Korean users, showing the company’s fast-paced approach toward testing and deploying the next-generation software.

According to trusted tipster Tarun Vats, Galaxy S24 owners are already receiving the Beta 1 update in select regions. However, slots are limited, and registration works on a first-come, first-served basis. So if you own a Galaxy S24, S24+, or S24 Ultra, this is the perfect chance to test Android 16 early.

Why One UI 8 Matters for Galaxy Users

Samsung’s One UI has consistently been one of the most user-friendly and feature-packed Android skins. Each iteration introduces meaningful improvements, and One UI 8 based on Android 16 promises the same.

Here’s why One UI 8 is a big deal:

  • Early Access to Android 16: Galaxy S24 owners get to experience Android 16 before most Android phones.

  • Refined Design: Expect improved UI elements, animations, and better customization.

  • Productivity Features: Multitasking, Samsung DeX improvements, and smarter widgets.

  • AI Enhancements: Smarter Samsung Notes, AI-driven camera upgrades, and contextual smart replies.

  • Security: A stronger privacy dashboard, better app permission controls, and Samsung Knox integration.

Samsung is aiming to set a new benchmark for Android devices with One UI 8, further cementing the Galaxy S24 series as its flagship lineup.

One UI 8 Beta 1 Rollout Details

Supported Devices (for now)

Currently, the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra are the first models to receive the One UI 8 Beta 1 update. Samsung also confirmed that the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 will join the Beta program shortly.

Regional Availability

As always, the Beta Program starts in Samsung’s home market – South Korea. After this initial wave, it will expand to other major markets like:

  • United States

  • Germany

  • India

  • United Kingdom

  • China

Historically, these regions are prioritized before Samsung extends the Beta to more countries.

OTA Size and Build Number

The One UI 8 Beta 1 update arrives as an OTA (over-the-air) package. Although the exact size may vary, most Beta updates range between 2.5GB to 3.2GB. Users should ensure at least 5GB of free space and update over Wi-Fi.

How to Join the One UI 8 Beta Program

Joining Samsung’s Beta Program is simple, but slots are limited. Here’s the full step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Install Samsung Members App

Download the Samsung Members app from the Galaxy Store or Google Play Store. Log in using your Samsung Account.

Step 2: Look for the Beta Program Banner

Inside the Members app, scroll until you see the “One UI Beta Program” banner. Tap on it to proceed.

Step 3: Enroll in the Beta

You’ll be directed to a Beta Program participation page. Tap Enroll, agree to the terms, and confirm your participation.

Step 4: Download the Update

Once enrolled, go to:
Settings > Software Update > Download and Install
The One UI 8 Beta 1 update should appear within 10–15 minutes of registration.

Step 5: Backup Your Data First

Although Beta updates are generally stable, they may include bugs and crashes. It’s always recommended to backup your phone before installing the Beta.

What’s New in One UI 8 Beta 1?

While Samsung hasn’t released the full changelog yet, Beta testers are reporting several improvements:

  • Refreshed User Interface with smoother animations and updated system icons.

  • New Quick Settings layout for faster access to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and SmartThings.

  • AI-Enhanced Camera Features including scene detection and advanced low-light processing.

  • Battery Optimization improvements with AI-driven adaptive performance.

  • Updated Privacy Controls giving more transparency on data usage.

  • Improved Widgets that adapt dynamically based on time, location, and activity.

As the Beta progresses, Samsung will add more refinements in Beta 2 and Beta 3 builds before the stable One UI 8 release.

Stable Rollout Timeline

While the Galaxy S25 series is expected to get the stable One UI 8 update next month, the Galaxy S24 series and other eligible models will have to wait a bit longer.

Samsung usually follows this pattern:

  1. Beta Program (August–September 2025): Testing phase for early adopters.

  2. Stable Update for S25 Series (September 2025): Flagship of the year gets it first.

  3. Stable Update for S24 Series (Q4 2025): Rollout begins in waves by region.

  4. Stable Update for Foldables & Tablets (Late 2025 – Early 2026).

By the end of 2025, Samsung plans to bring One UI 8 + Android 16 to most premium and mid-range Galaxy devices.

Risks and Benefits of Joining the Beta

Benefits

  • First Access: Be among the first to explore Android 16 features.

  • Feedback Opportunity: Directly share issues with Samsung, influencing final development.

  • Performance Boosts: Early access to performance and battery optimizations.

Risks

  • Bugs and Glitches: Beta builds are not fully stable.

  • App Compatibility Issues: Some banking or third-party apps may not work properly.

  • Potential Battery Drain: New optimizations may cause higher battery usage initially.

For this reason, Samsung recommends installing the Beta on secondary devices if possible.

How This Impacts the Galaxy Ecosystem

The Galaxy S24 series marks the beginning of Samsung’s 2025 Android 16 journey. With the Galaxy S25 series already lined up for the stable release, Samsung is ensuring that its flagship ecosystem remains at the cutting edge.

This strategy benefits users because:

  • Faster Rollouts: Samsung now delivers major updates quicker than ever.

  • Longer Software Support: With the promise of 7 years of updates, the S24 series will enjoy long-term support.

  • Seamless Integration: Samsung is aligning smartphones, foldables, and tablets on the same software version for consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can join the One UI 8 Beta Program?
Galaxy S24, S24+, and S24 Ultra owners in select regions.

2. Is the Beta Program free?
Yes, it’s completely free for Samsung users.

3. Will my data be wiped after joining Beta?
No, but creating a backup is highly recommended.

4. How long does the Beta Program last?
Usually 2–3 months before the stable rollout begins.

5. Can I leave the Beta Program?
Yes, you can opt out anytime from the Samsung Members app. However, this may require a rollback to the previous stable version.

Conclusion: Should You Join One UI 8 Beta 1 on Galaxy S24?

Samsung has officially kicked off the Android 16 Beta Program with One UI 8 Beta 1 for the Galaxy S24 series. This marks the beginning of Samsung’s next-gen software journey, giving users early access to Android 16 features.

If you’re a tech enthusiast and don’t mind occasional bugs, joining the Beta Program is a great way to explore new features ahead of everyone else. However, if your Galaxy S24 is your primary device, you may want to wait until the stable rollout for a bug-free experience.

With Samsung moving swiftly, the Galaxy S25 series will soon get the stable One UI 8 update, followed by the S24 series and foldables later in 2025.

So, if you want to be part of Samsung’s innovation journey, register for the One UI 8 Beta now before the slots fill up!


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