Samsung released One UI 8, based on Android 16, in September 2025 — and now, in February 2026, the majority of Galaxy devices are already running the new version. But what exactly is changing? Which new features are worth your attention? And if you haven't received the update yet, when will it arrive? We cover everything.
What Is One UI 8?
One UI 8 is the latest version of Samsung's software, based on Google's Android 16. If One UI 7 was the major design overhaul (with a new look, refreshed icons, revamped Quick Settings), One UI 8 is primarily a functional update — meaning it focuses on new features and improvements without drastically changing the appearance.
That doesn't mean it's not worth it. On the contrary — the new features are genuinely useful.
The Top New Features
Now Bar & Now Brief
Samsung is expanding Now Bar and Now Brief to more Galaxy devices. These are AI-powered widgets that display relevant information based on the time, location, and your habits — news in the morning, calendar reminders before meetings, weather before you head out. Samsung's answer to Apple's Dynamic Island, but more substantive.
90:10 Split-Screen Multitasking
This is one of the most practical features: you can now split-screen in a 90:10 ratio, giving almost the entire screen to one app while keeping a second one in a narrow strip. Ideal for monitoring a chat while working, or having YouTube in mini-view.
Gemini Live on FlexWindow
For Galaxy Z Flip 7 owners (and future Flip devices), Gemini Live now works on the external cover screen. You can talk to the AI assistant without opening the phone — practical and futuristic at the same time.
AI Portrait Studio
A new tool that uses artificial intelligence to create artistic portraits from your photos. Various styles available — cartoon, watercolor, sketch — and the results are impressive enough for social media.
Lockscreen Clock Interaction
The lock screen clock now interacts with your wallpaper — elements can “hide” behind objects in the image, creating a depth effect. A small detail, but it shows polish.
Improved Camera Controls
New camera settings, more intuitive controls, faster access to modes. Nothing radical, but the photography experience becomes smoother.
Notifications for Tablets
Galaxy tablets get a redesigned notification/Quick Panel — better suited for large screens, with improved use of space.
Which Devices Have Already Received the Update?
Samsung began the gradual rollout on September 15, 2025. As of February 2026, the list includes:
Galaxy S Series: S25 (all models), S24 (all), S23 (all), S22 (paused due to bugs). The Galaxy S25 was first, followed by the S24 ahead of schedule (earlier than October).
Galaxy Z Foldables: Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 (pre-installed), Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6, Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5, Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4. Essentially, every foldable from 2022 onwards has received the update.
Galaxy Tablets: Tab S11 (pre-installed), Tab S10 (all), Tab S9 (all large models).
Galaxy A Series: A56, A36, A26, A55, A35, A34, A17, A16, A15, A54. Notably, even mid-range devices like the A15 received the update, which shows Samsung's commitment.
Galaxy Watch: Even the smartwatches received One UI 8 Watch — Watch 7, Watch 6 series (October), Watch 5 and Watch 4 (November).
What Happened with the Galaxy S22 Update?
A notable incident: Samsung released One UI 8 for the Galaxy S22 series on October 6, but after just one week halted the rollout due to bugs. If you have an S22 and haven't received the update yet, Samsung is working on a fix — but there's no re-release date yet.
This is a reminder: don't rush to install day-one updates. Wait 1-2 weeks after availability to see if any issues pop up.
One UI 8 vs Stock Android 16
While Android 16 on Pixel devices brings the Material 3 Expressive design (a radical visual change), Samsung follows its own path. One UI 8 doesn't adopt Google's design changes — it keeps its own aesthetic, adding only the functional features of Android 16.
This means that if you switch from Pixel to Samsung (or vice versa), the experience will be quite different, even though they're running the same version of Android.
One UI 8.5: What's Coming Next?
The Galaxy S26 series is expected to run One UI 8.5 out of the box — an incremental upgrade that will bring additional AI features, an improved Samsung DeX (possibly with a redesign based on Android 16's desktop mode), and further optimizations.
Samsung now follows an X.0 → X.5 pattern: the first version launches with the Galaxy S series, and the .5 update comes with the Galaxy Z foldables or the next Galaxy S. One UI 8.5 is expected with the S26 in February 2027.
Should You Update?
Yes, without a second thought — unless you have a Galaxy S22 (wait for the fix). One UI 8 won't radically change your life, but the small improvements (90:10 split-screen, Now Bar, camera controls) make daily use more enjoyable. And of course, every security update patches vulnerabilities you don't want left open.
Samsung proves once again that it's the most reliable Android manufacturer when it comes to updates — after Google. The coverage from Galaxy S22 to S25, Fold 4 to Fold 7, and tablets spanning multiple generations shows an ecosystem that takes care of its users long-term.
