One UI 8 And Android 16 Leak Highlights Samsung’s Optimization Focus

Samsung is actively rolling out its substantial One UI 7 update to a wider range of devices. Concurrently, the company is also hard at work on the development of One UI 8, which will be based on the upcoming Android 16 release. Today brings new insights about the update, and the news is promising.

SmartPrix recently shared a collection of images that supposedly showcase an initial version of One UI 8, referred to as an “alpha” version. These images indicate that One UI 8 will mainly focus on improving optimization rather than introducing numerous new features, a logical direction following the extensive changes brought by the One UI 7 update, which is built atop Android 15.

In One UI 8, SmartPrix has identified two notable updates that may be included when it launches. First, the File Manager is expected to feature a “more appealing and organized layout.” Additionally, the Gallery will likely see “subtle enhancements.”

Moreover, Samsung plans to extend its Now Brief feature with One UI 8, making it available on a broader array of devices beyond just the Galaxy S25 series. Now Brief serves as a personalized content aggregator, delivering updates that are pertinent to your daily life by taking your schedule and activities into account.

Since the launch of One UI 7 on Galaxy S25 devices, users have encountered several issues, the latest of which has led to a temporary halt in the update’s rollout. One UI 7 introduced significant shifts, including separate panels for notifications and quick settings, reminiscent of iOS design. The app drawer now scrolls vertically, and the home screen has received a visual revamp with new icons and streamlined widgets. Notably, the “Now Bar” provides real-time updates from select apps directly on the lock screen.

The update further enhances the capabilities of Galaxy AI, introducing features like Writing Assist, Drawing Assist, and Call Transcripts. Other enhancements include Auto Highlight Clipping for streamlined video editing, improved health management tools, and optimized multitasking features for Samsung devices.

As for Android 16, Google is anticipated to announce its first official version at Google I/O 2025 next month. It is also expected that One UI 8 could be unveiled alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7, potentially this coming summer.