Samsung is well known for regularly updating and improving its software, and Galaxy Watch users have been looking forward to what’s coming next. This year, instead of launching One UI 7 Watch, Samsung is planning to release One UI 8 Watch. It’s supposed to be a major update with new features and a fresh design, but early signs of One UI 8 Watch show something that’s honestly disappointing.

Early test builds of One UI 8 Watch show a new charging animation. The problem is that it looks almost exactly like the One UI 7 design on Samsung smartphones. That animation looks good on phones with big screens, but on the small, round Galaxy Watch, it looks strange and doesn’t fit well.

Image via AndroidAuthority

Aside from the animation, Samsung will reportedly add a new App Shortcuts system, where users can choose between two shortcut tile sizes: 2×1 and 2×2. While this sounds like a helpful feature, it looks too crowded on a small screen. It feels like Samsung just copied the phone layout without thinking about how different a watch really is.

Source – Android Authority

It feels like Samsung is focusing on making the watch UI match the phone UI. While having a consistent design across devices sounds good, watches need a unique layout that fits their shape, size, and how we use them.

Honestly, these redesigned tiles and new charging animation are quite disappointing. Smartwatches are supposed to be quick, simple, and easy to use. The current direction of One UI 8 Watch feels like a change just for the sake, not something that actually helps users.

We know this is still an early version, and Samsung may improve things before the final release. But right now, it’s not looking great.

What do you think? Should Samsung redesign the One UI 8 Watch to better fit the watch screen, or are you okay with the early look? Let us know your thoughts on our social media platforms.

One UI 8 Watch to feature One UI 7-inspired charging animation

Samsung’s One UI has transformed how Galaxy users interact with their devices. The custom version of the Android interface offers a clean, intuitive experience that makes Samsung phones and tablets both personal and powerful. With One UI 8 coming alongside Android 16 in 2025, Samsung has a real opportunity to elevate its software experience even further.

However, there’s a potential issue: Samsung typically limits its beta programs to just a few countries, as we saw with the One UI 7 beta earlier this year. This approach leaves millions of users worldwide unable to participate in shaping the software they use daily.

Here’s why Samsung should go global with the One UI 8 Beta program:

A global beta program would provide Samsung with invaluable feedback from users across different regions, languages, and usage patterns. While users in the US might focus on certain features, users in other regions might identify completely different issues or opportunities for improvement.

Let’s go more in-depth, US users might prioritize features that work well with US-based services like Google Pay or specific carrier integrations, but these features might function differently or be less relevant (take this as an example) in other markets. Without global testing, these regional differences could lead to frustrating bugs or missed optimization opportunities.

When One UI 7 beta launched in select markets, including the US, in December 2024, social media and the Samsung Members community were filled with excited users sharing new findings and tips, while users in excluded countries could only watch from the sidelines.

By including everyone, Samsung would strengthen its community while demonstrating that it values user input regardless of location. This approach aligns with American values of inclusivity and would position Samsung as a truly global brand that listens to all its customers.

With Apple offering iOS developer betas worldwide, Samsung is falling behind by restricting access to its One UI beta program. A global beta program would reinforce Samsung’s image as an innovative leader rather than a follower.

A global beta program isn’t without challenges. Samsung would need to:

– Improve customer support across time zones
– Manage feedback in multiple languages
– Address region-specific bugs and compatibility issues
– Importantly, confirmation through official channels.

However, Samsung already has the resources to handle these challenges through its existing global operations and the Samsung Members app. The company successfully took its Good Lock customization tool global via the Google Play Store earlier this year, showing it can manage worldwide software releases effectively.

A global One UI 8 beta would mean:

– Earlier access to cutting-edge features
– A voice in shaping the software experience
– Being part of a worldwide community of testers and enthusiasts
– Potentially faster official updates, as more bugs would be caught during testing

Opening the One UI 8 Beta program globally isn’t just fair—it’s a smart business move. Samsung Galaxy users would benefit from software that’s been tested across diverse environments, resulting in a more stable and feature-rich experience when the official release arrives.

As Samsung prepares for the One UI 8 launch alongside new devices like the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Flip7 series, going global with the beta would demonstrate confidence in its software and commitment to the entire user base. It’s time for Samsung to make this move and give every Galaxy user a chance to help shape the future of One UI.

What do you think about the global One UI 8 Beta program? Drop your opinion or any hot tips on X (@SamsungSWUpdate).

Samsung‘s new foldable phone, the Galaxy Z Flip 7, has reportedly passed several company’s internal tests. Notably, the smartphone used the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, not Samsung’s own Exynos 2500 processor.

Earlier rumors said the Galaxy Z Flip 7 would launch with the new Exynos 2500 chip. This is Samsung’s next-generation chip that the company has been working on.

However, a reliable leaker PandaFlashPro has shared on social media that the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip is now more likely to be used in the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7. This chip is also used in Samsung’s latest flagship phones, including the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25 Plus, and Galaxy S25 Ultra smartphones.

It shows that the Snapdragon 8 Elite version of the phone has already passed all Samsung’s internal tests for the Galaxy Z Flip 7, including important ones like network and connectivity tests. This could mean the Exynos 2500 is not quite ready for launch or may still have some issues that need fixing.

The Galaxy Z Flip 7 is expected to bring some amazing upgrades compared to the older model. These may include a larger outer display, a powerful chip, and other performance improvements. Samsung is also rumored to be working on a more affordable version of the phone called the Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE.

With mass production expected to start soon, it’s still unclear if Samsung will use the Exynos 2500 at all in this model. For now, it looks like the Snapdragon 8 Elite will power the main version of the Galaxy Z Flip 7 when it launches later this year.

Report: Samsung begins OLED production for Galaxy Z Flip 7, Fold 7; Tri-Fold, Flip FE in pipeline

Samsung’s One UI 7 update was supposed to be a game-changer, promising a refined user experience, enhanced customization, and better performance for Galaxy users. Yet, here we are, staring at a halted rollout and a deafening silence from Samsung about what’s next.

As a loyal Galaxy user, I can’t help but feel frustrated and let down. More importantly, what was Samsung doing during the four long months of beta testing that started late to begin with? Let’s unpack this mess and explore why Samsung’s handling of One UI 7 feels like a betrayal to its customers.

A beta testing process: A big disappointment

Samsung kicked off the One UI 7 beta program later than expected, leaving users eagerly waiting for a glimpse of the new software. While competitors like Apple and Google typically start their beta cycles earlier, Samsung’s delay already set a shaky tone. When the beta finally started, it was meant to be an early test to find and fix problems, making sure the stable version was smooth. Four months is a long time—enough to catch and solve issues, isn’t it? Guess not.

The beta program dragged on with multiple rounds of updates that seemed to address minor tweaks rather than major concerns. Users reported persistent bugs, performance hiccups, and compatibility issues across devices, yet Samsung pushed forward with a stable rollout on April 7, 2025.

If the beta testing was thorough, how did critical issues slip through the cracks, forcing a halt just days into the stable release? It’s hard to believe that four months of testing didn’t uncover problems significant enough to pause a global rollout. This suggests either a rushed process or a lack of focus on user feedback—both of which are unacceptable for a company of Samsung’s stature.

What’s the result? One UI 7 rollout halted.

The One UI 7 stable rollout started with a lot of hype, but it fizzled out fast. Just days in, Samsung stopped it quietly. If it’s not a big deal, why halt everything? And why won’t Samsung tell us what’s wrong or when it’ll be fixed? This secrecy is super annoying. Galaxy fans, who spent big money on their phones, deserve more than silence.

As of April 14, 2025, we still don’t know when—or even if—One UI 7 will come back. This waiting game feels like a punch to loyal customers who’ve been patient for months. Samsung’s not talking, and it makes us wonder if they care about us at all. A simple “here’s the issue, and we’ll fix it by this date” would help so much. Instead, we’re stuck checking forums and social media for tiny bits of news, and that’s no way to treat fans.

What happened during the 4 months of beta testing?

Let’s talk about those four months of beta testing. Samsung had sufficient time to refine One UI 7, yet the halted rollout suggests they didn’t make the most of it. Beta testers, who dedicate time and effort to report bugs and suggest improvements, deserve to have their voices heard. But the current situation makes it feel like their feedback was ignored or mishandled.

If critical issues persisted into the stable release, what was the point of the beta program? It’s starting to look like a box-checking exercise rather than a genuine effort to deliver a polished product.

Samsung’s competitors manage to roll out updates with fewer hiccups, often within tighter timelines. Apple’s iOS betas, for example, typically last a few months, with clear communication about progress and release dates. Google’s Android betas follow a similar pattern. Samsung, however, seems to be hitting the target in the dark, leaving users questioning whether the company prioritizes quality control or is simply coasting on its reputation.

Does Samsung still have customer support?

Perhaps the most disappointing aspect of this saga is Samsung’s lack of support for its customers. When a rollout is halted, users expect prompt updates, clear communication, and a commitment to fixing things quickly. Samsung has delivered none of these. The absence of an official statement shows a disconnection between the company and its loyal users. Galaxy owners aren’t just customers; they’re advocates who’ve chosen Samsung over countless alternatives. Treating them like an afterthought is a dangerous misstep.

Support doesn’t just mean pushing out updates; it means standing by your product and your promises. Samsung’s silence erodes trust, making users wonder if future updates will follow the same chaotic pattern.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

What’s Next?

With no confirmation about One UI 7’s release date, the frustration is real. Samsung’s late start to beta testing, prolonged four-month testing period, and abrupt halt to the stable rollout paint a picture of mismanagement. The company’s refusal to engage with its customers only deepens the disappointment. If the issue is serious, why not accept it and come up with a plan?

Samsung needs to step up—fast. A detailed explanation, a revised timeline, and a commitment to transparency would be a good start. Until then, Galaxy users are left hanging, wondering whether their trust in the brand was misplaced. One UI 7 could still be a stellar update, but right now, it’s a symbol of Samsung’s failure to deliver. Here’s hoping they turn things around, but for now, the ball’s in Samsung’s court, and they’re not even swinging.

What do you think about this ongoing situation? Let me know on my X handle (@SamsungSWUpdate).

Samsung is reportedly going to launch the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Galaxy Z Fold 7 smartphones in July 2025. However, Samsung hasn’t confirmed the exact date of release, but rumors and leaks have already started to appear. Here are the things I want to see in the upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 7.

Nowadays, foldable devices have become quite trendy, and when we buy one, it shows off a uniqueness. But that’s all – along with boldness of design, a foldable phone should offer smoother performance and amazing features.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 is currently the latest Galaxy Z series phone, and in comparison with it, you can check what I’m expecting for the upcoming Galaxy foldable phone.

Camera Upgrade

The Galaxy Z Flip 6 has a good camera, but it doesn’t quite match up to flagship cameras in today’s era. For the Z Flip 7, it would be amazing to see a camera upgrade that matches the quality and features of today’s flagship phones, such as the Galaxy S25 series.

Bigger Cover Screen

The cover screen on the Galaxy Z Flip 6 is useful, but it could still be improved, as the bezels are too thick, which affects its looks. I’d love to see a bigger, more functional cover screen with thinner bezels on the Z Flip 7. A larger cover screen would make the foldable experience more useful and enjoyable.

Source – Onleaks & AndroidHeadlines

Slimmer and Lighter Design

The Galaxy Z Flip phones are already compact, but we can expect a thinner and lighter design with the Galaxy Z Flip 7. A slimmer phone would be more comfortable to hold and easier to carry in your pocket.

Better Battery Life

While the Galaxy Z Flip 6 has a 4000mAh battery, it could be improved. A bigger battery, maybe around 4500mAh, with 45W fast charging support, would make a big difference in the upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 7.

Exclusive AI Features

In today’s era, AI technology is becoming an important part of smartphones, and the Z Flip 7 could take advantage of this. Samsung could introduce new AI features that are exclusive and useful for Galaxy Z Flip 7 users.

With a larger cover screen, better camera, slimmer design, durability, and longer battery life, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 could attract users looking for a reliable and advanced foldable phone.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 could bring battery upgrade over Z Flip 6