Samsung Galaxy S25 Users Can Now Try Android 16 with One UI 8 Beta Update

What you need to Know

• Android 16-based One UI 8 beta now available for Galaxy S25 series.

• Beta program launched on May 28, 2025, in select regions.

• Second beta update already rolled out to testers.

• Beta installation requires the Samsung Members app.

• Early access to new features and Samsung’s Android 16 vision.

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Samsung has officially kicked off beta testing its next-generation One UI 8 operating system based on Android 16, providing Galaxy S25 series consumers with an early glimpse of what the future holds. Following a long rollout of One UI 7 based on Android 15, the South Korean tech giant is not keeping anyone waiting to shift to the new Android version. If you have an eligible Samsung Galaxy S25 series smartphone, now is the ideal time to get on board and try Android 16 ahead of schedule through Samsung's One UI 8 beta program.

One UI 8 Beta Program Now Live

Samsung initiated the beta program for One UI 8 on May 28, 2025, for users of Galaxy S25 series. It was first rolled out in limited markets such as the U.S., U.K., Germany, South Korea, India, and Poland. With the beta program, the participants can install and experience Android 16-based One UI 8 features before its public rollout.

The beta is currently available for the following models:

• Samsung Galaxy S25

• Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus

• Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

However, Galaxy S25 Edge users will be disappointed to know that their device isn’t yet eligible for this beta rollout. Still, Samsung is expected to expand One UI 8 availability to more Galaxy devices in the coming months.

Development Is Already in Full Swing

Samsung has already rolled out the second One UI 8 beta update to early testers, which suggests development is progressing at a rapid pace. New capabilities, performance enhancement, and user interface enhancements are in active testing, delivering Android 16 breakthroughs to Samsung's high-end ecosystem.

Therefore, if you want to try out Samsung's new software, and you qualify, preparing to get started is only a few minutes.

How to Install the Android 16-Based One UI 8 Beta

If you own a supported Galaxy S25 series device, here’s how you can join the One UI 8 beta program and install Android 16 right now:

1. Open the Samsung Members App

2. Scroll down until you see the Beta program tab, and tap on it.

3. Tap on “One UI 8 S25 Beta” to proceed.

4. Tap “Join” to enroll in the One UI 8 beta program. Currently, this supports only T-Mobile and unlocked devices.

5. Once you join, your phone will begin downloading and installing the beta. The update process may require several restarts, so be patient.

Important Considerations Before Installing One UI 8 Beta

Although the One UI 8 beta is open to the public and not specifically for developers, it still contains the risks usually inherent in pre-release software. If you're considering joining, here are some things to remember:

• Beta Software May Be Unstable: There might be occasional crashes, bugs, or battery drain.

• You Can't Revert Without a Full Reset: There's no straightforward rollback to One UI 7. To downgrade, you'll need to fully wipe your device.

• Back Up Your Data First: Always create a full backup before installing beta firmware to protect your files and settings.

• Not for Daily Drivers (Unless You’re Brave): If your Galaxy S25 is your primary phone, be prepared for potential hiccups in usability.

Why Join the One UI 8 Beta?

Risk or not, the One UI 8 beta provides users with a first-hand experience of Samsung's take on Android 16, including better privacy features, enhanced customization, smoother animations, and possibly new Samsung-exclusive functionalities. Whether you're tech-savvy or just interested in what's new, this beta allows you to be part of the development process through feedback and bug reporting.

Although the program supports only the S25, S25 Plus, and S25 Ultra currently, Samsung tends to open up beta to additional models in the future. Galaxy Z Fold, Flip, and even the Galaxy A-series could receive the update sometime later this year. Keep an eye on the official channels for announcements.

Samsung launching the Android 16-based One UI 8 beta so early in 2025 indicates its eagerness for instant innovation and to lead the software race. If you're a Galaxy S25 series user but are also happy to endure some bugs for getting ahead of the curve with advanced features, the One UI 8 beta program is something worth considering.