Google’s revised Android OS release schedule has impacted smartphone manufacturers, including Samsung. With Android 16 set to arrive in August, Samsung appears to have adjusted its plans accordingly—possibly explaining the cancellation of the One UI 7.1.1 update this year. However, this could be a positive shift, as Samsung has already started testing its Android 16-based One UI 8 build.
Android 16-based One UI 8 Testing Underway
Although Samsung has been somewhat delayed in rolling out the stable Android 15-based One UI 7—currently still in beta—the company is looking to compensate with an early Android 16 release. Internal testing of the One UI 8 build has now begun, signaling a faster transition to the next-generation OS.
First One UI 8 Beta Build Details
Samsung’s internal One UI 8 test build was recently spotted on its servers by tipster Tarun Vats. The build carries the version number S938BXXU1BYC1 and appears to be exclusive to developers. Notably, this version is designed for the Galaxy S25 series, making it the first Samsung lineup expected to run stable Android 16.
Public beta testing is still months away, as Samsung is likely to release the update only after Google officially pushes Android 16 to AOSP—expected around August, barring any delays.
