What’s New in One UI 8? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
Samsung is rolling out One UI 8 based on Android 16, changes aren’t as vast as the jump from One UI 6 to 7, but I still feel there are plenty of real-world changes to highlight and discuss! Whether you have a Galaxy S series flagship phone of a mid-range A or M series device, some of these features might make your day-to-day a little bit easier.
So, here are the 10 biggest changes in One UI 8, with a few genuine comments about what I still think Samsung has to improve on.
Top 10 Features in Samsung One UI 8 1.
1. Split-Screen Gets Smarter
Split-screen has been around, but One UI 8 has made it feel more fluid. This time, the ability to swipe or tap your way to decide where your apps belong on the screen has improved. You’ll feel more efficient and natural when multitasking – perfect for productivity.
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2. Calendar Drag and Drop for Events
Need to move an event to a different date? Rather than editing all of the details, you can drag and drop your calendar event to the date you want. It’s easy, easy to visualize and it’s really satisfying.
3. File Manager:
Smarter Sorting of Downloads The file manager now has the ability to sort downloads by browser and app, so you can find what you downloaded and where it is from including: Samsung Internet, Chrome, or others.
4. UI Layout Tweaks Across the Board
Gallery, Samsung Internet and others have made minor layout changes. Instead of scrolling down, menus now scroll sideways which helps organize information better. The camera UI is more straightforward and has easy access to quick tools like flash and timer.
5. Reimagined Reminders App
Reminders takes on a new look with a more integrated design. You can now add tasks, add media, set a location and date, all from an integrated experience. Staying on top of your to-do list is now easier than ever without having to swap screens.
6. Quick Share: Clean and Simple
Transferring files from device to device has never been easier. You can now just press “Send” and the same for “Receive” using Quick Share in One UI 8 with a clearer interface that is both quicker and efficient.
7. Weather App Gets a Visual Refresh
There isn’t much that is new with the Weather app in terms of functionality, but it does have improved day/night animation and visual enhancements to make it more pleasant to use.
8. Secure Folder: Hide Apps Inside
The last time we wrote about Secure Folder, it was locked behind a passcode. The new version allows us to lock apps in the Secure Folder too! So now we can pretend we haven’t purposely ignored using the app in the first place. Consider it double privacy—your favourite secret apps now locked up.
9. Current UI Show – More on Lock Screen
You probably remember the “Now Bar” that we included in one of our past releases. It’s been updated! It now shows Do Not Disturb status and ongoing calls as default and potentially showing delivery status from apps like Swiggy or Blinkit (this part still seems to be in beta) soon.
10. Samsung DeX – Optional Resolutions
Samsung DeX now offers QHD+ resolution and screen orientation options (portrait or landscape) for those who utilize external monitors. It’s minor, but it’s a win for productivity nerds.rts QHD+ resolutions
Also Read: OnePlus Pad 3 Unboxing & First Look – A Premium Android Tablet Experience
What Still Needs Work in One UI 8?
Despite these enhancements, there are still a few issues to consider—and Gyan Therapy wasn’t shy in pointing these out:
- No Internet speed indicate in the status bar (still!)
- No Delivery tracking integration on the lock screen or Always-On Display (while iPhones have this)
- S Secure is missing, the feature which used to let you lock apps directly without having to use Secure Folder
- Beta quirks: Some features (e.g. QHD+ in DeX) haven’t shown up as expected – possibly due to the beta version
Final Thoughts: Is One UI 8 a Big Leap?
While One UI 8 isn’t revolutionary, it is a considered step forward. The changes feel more polished than revolutionary, emphasizing gradation, usability, and a smoother everyday experience.
If you primarily use Samsung, you will feel a little more “put together.” And if you are a power user, the DeX and multasking improvements are certainly wins.
What Do You Think?
Have you tried One UI 8 yet? What feature did you like the most – or are you still waiting for? Leave your comments below or share this article with your techy friends!riends!
FAQ: Samsung One UI 8
Q: Is One UI 8 based on Android 16?
Yes, One UI 8 is built on top of Android 16 and currently available as a beta for select Galaxy devices.
Q: Can I get One UI 8 on my device?
You can check eligibility via the Samsung Members app. Devices from the S, A, M, F, and Tab series may be supported.
Q: Is it safe to install the beta version?
While the beta is open to the public, it may include bugs or missing features. Recommended only for experienced users.
Q: When is the official release expected?
Samsung hasn’t announced a final date, but public rollout is likely in late 2025 after beta testing concludes.
Source: This article is based on insights from Gyan Therapy’s YouTube video: “I Tried Samsung One UI 8 – New Features & Changes!