Samsung has officially begun the rollout of One UI 8, a major software update that ushers in a new era of advanced and personalized AI experiences for Galaxy devices. The update, which Samsung is framing as a step towards “AI democratization,” introduces a range of intelligent features and a user experience optimized for various form factors. It is currently available on the Galaxy S25 series and the newly announced Galaxy Tab S11 series, with a wider rollout planned for eligible models in the coming weeks.
At the core of One UI 8 is an advanced multimodal AI that aims to make everyday life smarter and more convenient. The software is designed to understand a user’s context, offering personalized, proactive suggestions that support their unique daily routines. Features like Gemini Live allow for natural communication with an AI that understands what a user is seeing in real-time, eliminating the need to switch between apps. For gamers, Circle to Search with Google now provides in-the-moment help, offering more information about characters and strategies right on the screen. The update also enhances translation capabilities, allowing users to see instant, on-screen translations of text as they scroll through news articles or social media posts.
Samsung has also focused on bolstering security with One UI 8. New security architecture, such as Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP), creates encrypted, app-specific storage environments to safeguard sensitive information. Furthermore, Knox Matrix automatically signs devices out of a Samsung Account if it detects serious risks, sending notifications across connected devices to guide users on how to protect their data. The update also includes an upgraded Secure Wi-Fi with post-quantum cryptography (PQC) to strengthen network protection against emerging threats, ensuring robust privacy even on public networks.
The user experience has been optimised to adapt seamlessly across the Galaxy product portfolio, including foldables and large-screen tablets. For devices like the Galaxy Z Flip, the new Now Bar shows real-time app activity and media player progress on the FlexWindow, and it’s now integrated with even more third-party apps. For larger screens, One UI 8 introduces AI features optimised for productivity. Galaxy AI Optimised for Large Screens allows users to drag and drop AI-generated content, such as images and text, directly into their workflow. Tools like Drawing Assist and Writing Assist make it easier to move ideas and visuals around, unlocking a smoother creative process.
The official rollout of One UI 8 in Malaysia has a specific timeline for various devices. The Galaxy S25 series received the update on September 18, while the Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy Z Fold6, and Galaxy Z Flip6 are set to get it on September 25. Older flagship series like the Galaxy S23, Galaxy Z Fold5, and Z Flip5 will follow on October 2, with the Galaxy S22 series, Galaxy Z Fold4, and Z Flip4 getting the update on October 6. The Galaxy S21 FE is scheduled to receive the update on October 16. To celebrate the launch, Samsung is also offering a double storage upgrade for the latest Galaxy Z Series devices until September 30.
