Galaxy S24 Series Edges Closer to Android 16 with One UI 8 Tests
Samsung has started internal testing of One UI 8 for its Galaxy S24 lineup, signaling that the Android 16-based update may be coming sooner than many expected. A reliable leak revealed the build number S928BXXU4CYF7, pointing to development work now underway — specifically targeting the European and Indian variants of the Galaxy S24 Ultra.
This internal testing marks a critical step forward for Samsung’s flagship phones from 2024. With the Galaxy S25 series already running a public beta of One UI 8, Galaxy S24 owners have been eagerly watching and — let’s be honest — refreshing their Samsung Members app more than they care to admit.
What We Know So Far About the One UI 8 Testing
The leaked build number comes amid rumors swirling around Samsung’s next major operating system upgrade for its current and previous-gen flagship phones. One UI 8, built on Android 16, is expected to bring a wave of system-wide improvements, better app optimizations, and refined personalization tools.
- First One UI 8 internal testing build: S928BXXU4CYF7
- Devices being tested: Galaxy S24 Ultra (Europe/India)
- Expected beta roll-out: Possibly within weeks
Once internal tests pass stability and performance checks, Samsung typically opens up its Beta Program — usually beginning in South Korea, then expanding to select global markets.
Samsung’s Typical Beta Timeline
Looking back, Galaxy S23 users saw their beta access around August 2023. With the S25 series already deep into their One UI 8 testing since May 2025, it wouldn’t be surprising if Galaxy S24 owners get beta access in July or earlier.
That assumes everything goes smoothly — which so far, it has. According to community feedback, the S25 beta “runs smoother than expected,” and no major bugs have been reported.
What’s New in One UI 8 (Android 16)?
While Samsung hasn’t published an official changelog, Android 16 itself is said to bring several under-the-hood improvements centered on performance, security, and deeper AI integration. Here’s what might show up in One UI 8:
- Expanded lock screen customization
- Smarter app suggestions powered by on-device AI
- Battery health monitoring tools
- Improved privacy and background access controls
- Faster access to accessibility tools
Some light UI tweaks are also expected — subtle changes to the quick panel, new emoji sets, slightly faster animations, and better integration with Galaxy AI features introduced in earlier updates.
Galaxy S24 Owners: How to Get Ready
If you own a Galaxy S24, S24+, or S24 Ultra, you may want to start prepping. While this doesn’t guarantee beta access instantly, you’ll be ready to jump in the moment registration opens.
Steps to Prepare:
- Update your phone to the latest official firmware via Settings > Software update.
- Open Samsung Members app and check if any beta banner appears under Notices or What’s New.
- Ensure your Samsung account is active and connected.
- Back up your important data — installing beta software can be risky.
- Keep at least 10GB of free space for beta download and testing builds.
Once the beta window opens, slots may be limited — so act fast if you’re set on testing Android 16 ahead of the crowd.
Devices Expected to Receive Android 16 / One UI 8
Based on Samsung’s update promise and current software support windows, here’s a list of Galaxy devices likely to get the Android 16 update via One UI 8:
Galaxy S Series
- Galaxy S25 / S25+ / S25 Ultra
- Galaxy S24 / S24+ / S24 Ultra
- Galaxy S23 / S23+ / S23 Ultra
- Galaxy S23 FE
Galaxy Z Series
- Galaxy Z Fold 6 / Flip 6
- Galaxy Z Fold 5 / Flip 5
Galaxy A & M Series (Selective Models)
- Galaxy A55, A54, A35, A34, A25
- Galaxy M55, M54
Galaxy Tablets
- Galaxy Tab S9, Tab S9+, Tab S9 Ultra
- Galaxy Tab S8 Series
The rollout order will likely start with the latest premium models, followed by slightly older flagships and key mid-range units.
Government’s Reaction Isn’t Really a Thing Here
We skimmed social media and tech portals — and nah, no policy statements, no government mentions here. This one’s all on Samsung, and users just want to know “when do I get it?” That being said, Europe and India seem to be in Samsung’s spotlight for internal tests.
What Galaxy Users Are Saying
Over on Reddit and the Samsung Community forums, it’s been a mix of hope and frustration. One user posted, “I JUST bought my S24 and now they’re testing 16 already? Wild.”.
Another chimed in, “Would be cool if they roll out betas at the same time as S25 next time. We’re always 2 months behind.”
The competitive Android crowd — especially Pixel fans — are keeping an eye on this too. Samsung’s One UI platform has grown smoother and cleaner with each version, and the pressure is high to match Google’s expected Android 16 features.
FAQ: Samsung One UI 8 / Android 16
When will One UI 8 beta be available for Galaxy S24?
No exact date yet, but internal testing is already underway as of June 2025. Public beta could start in July or August.
Will all Galaxy S24 models get the One UI 8 beta?
Yes. Galaxy S24, S24+, and S24 Ultra are all expected to join the Beta Program.
Where do I sign up?
Through the Samsung Members app. Check for a beta invitation once rollout begins in your country.
Is this safe? Should I install the beta?
Beta builds may include bugs and instability. Only join if you’re okay with performance hiccups or minor feature issues. Always back up your data first.
Will the beta work worldwide?
Usually not right away. Beta rollouts are regional — often starting in Korea, the U.S., Germany, and India first.
When is the final Android 16 (One UI 8) stable version coming?
Likely around October–November 2025, starting with the Galaxy S25 series, then moving backward.
Looking Ahead
Samsung’s update cycle has become faster and more reliable over the years. With Android 16 upgrades starting to appear, Galaxy S24 users are only a few weeks away from trying the future of Samsung software — if they get in the beta queue on time, that is.
