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Samsung Confirms Android 16 with One UI 8 for Galaxy Phones Starting June 20
Android 16 is on its way to Samsung Galaxy phones. Samsung officially confirmed that Galaxy devices will begin receiving the Android 16 update with One UI 8 starting this summer. The rollout window spans from June 20 to September 22, 2025.
Google and Samsung Timelines Aligned
Google plans to push the stable Android 16 version to Pixel phones in June. Samsung will follow with its version, built into One UI 8. A beta program is expected to begin by late May or early June for a few selected Galaxy models.
Initial Rollout in Focus for Flagship Devices
The style update will initially be made available to Samsung flagships such as the Galaxy S25 series, Galaxy Z Fold 6, and Galaxy Z Flip 6. To confirm, the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 launching this July will come preloaded with Android 16 and One UI 8.
Refined Experience instead of Redesign
The biggest reinventive scope Android 16 update will give a very fine sharpening to the overall experience. There will be much smoother animations, springy transitions, and refined haptic feedback. Notifications will be clean-looking with a faint blur backdrop.
One UI 8 Improves Home Screen, Quick Settings
And One UI 8 refines the home screen to allow better widget alignment, while turning on more possible customization options in Quick Settings. Featuring Live Updates is Live Updates, which shows live app data—say, ride arrivals or food delivery status—on screen.
Material 3 Design Coming with One UI 8.1
Samsung plans to include Google’s Material 3 Expressive design in the One UI 8.1 update later this year. This visual upgrade will stretch across app interfaces, adding dynamic colors, rounded corners, and responsive components.
Samsung Confirms Update Timeline
Minseok Kang, Samsung’s VP and Head of Smartphone Planning, confirmed the timeline during a recent feature video on the official Android channel. His announcement followed Google’s reveal during The Android Show: I/O Edition.
Faster Rollout Compared to the Previous Version
Unlike the previous One UI 7 rollout, which faced delays, One UI 8 aims for a faster and smoother launch. The company seems determined to avoid past mistakes by ensuring timely updates for key devices.
Wear OS 6 Arrives Alongside Android 16
In parallel, Wear OS 6 will arrive with a new design for circular smartwatch displays. While it won’t be part of Android 16 directly, it reflects Google’s broader push toward consistency across Android platforms.
Samsung’s New Update Strategy Takes Shape
The upcoming update cycle signals a major shift in Samsung’s approach. By aligning closely with Google’s schedule, Samsung Galaxy phones could soon be among the first non-Pixel devices to adopt the latest Android version.
A Polished and Connected Future for Galaxy Users
As summer nears, all eyes remain on the Android 16 update and its promise of a more polished, responsive, and connected mobile experience.