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Samsung Galaxy users will gladly accept Android 14 upgrade
Android is the world’s most popular and widely used mobile operating system. Google is ready to add another member Android 14 to its already huge family this year and the development has already started in February. Samsung Galaxy users will gladly accept the Android 14 upgrade, why they don’t?
As per the recent Android distribution stats, Android 13 OS reached over 12 percent globally in eight months after release. Chinese phone makers are quite slow in Android 13’s distribution, when it comes to non-flagships and older models, while Samsung completed the task before 2023 began.
This year, Samsung Galaxy users will upgrade their phones/tablets to the new Android 14 OS. As the new version has just reached the Beta testing stage, consumers have to wait for at least four months to see the first preview of Samsung’s version of Android 14.
If history is any indication, Samsung fans will let the Galaxy-maker nourish the Android 14 for products. With participation in Beta testing, they will share feedback so One UI can gain stability as well as demand new features so the developers can consider bringing them.
Samsung Android 14 Upgrade
As Google has started to develop Android 14, Samsung is currently focussing to craft the next-generation foldable phones. These new phones not only bring futuristic innovations but also run the new One UI 5.1.1 skin with further optimization w/ Android 13.
At its annual event (I/O), the search engine giant will disclose the progress of Android 14’s development and possibly the deployment roadmap. At the same stage, there could be the announcement of the Android 14 Developer Preview for select non-Samsung/non-Galaxy smartphones.
Samsung ships the best Android smartphone in the industry and for sure, it’s required to drop the most stable and bug-free software to consumers. Hence, the company won’t do anything in hurry, and as far as the roadmap is concerned, we’re sure, all supported Galaxies will run Android 14 before 2023 ends.
Samsung Android 14 Beta
As the Android 14 Public Beta has begun, Samsung won’t directly work with Google in development and adaptation. Every year, the company waits until the new Android version reaches the platform stability milestone. This year, things may not change, however, we would see boosted distribution.
Samsung’s Android 14 Beta update will be available for a number of Galaxy models including flagships and mid-range. Since there’s no new Galaxy Note with compatibility for Android 14, the Beta upgrade will only make its way to S, Z and select A/M models.
As Google has just started the Android 14’s Beta program, it will take time to better optimize it for smartphone and vanish severe bugs. Until then, Samsung will introduce another new One UI iteration based on the latest Stable Android 13 operating system.
Hundreds of compatible models
For Samsung’s Android 14 Beta firmware, the Galaxy S23 series is the first in line, as per the previous rollouts. Additionally, the Galaxy S22 series, Galaxy S21 series and Galaxy Z Fold/Flip models will also be invited for the Beta testing program.
So far, the South Korean tech giant availed its One UI Beta program in limited markets. Galaxy consumers in China, India, Germany, Poland, South Korea, the UK and the US are usually invited for testing and feedback. It would be interesting if Samsung expands Beta to more European markets.
Nowadays, the Galaxy A and Galaxy M series phones are being eligible for 4 OS plus 5 years of security updates support. It helps the users keep a single phone longer with the latest mobile experience and industry-grade security, thanks to longer software support.
One UI 6.0
Samsung’s latest One UI version – One UI 5.1 is based on Android 13 OS. It’s a successor to the original One UI 5.0, which was also built on the 13th major version of Google’s mobile operating system. Accordingly, the next Android OS will bring a new iteration of One UI.
That said, the One UI 6.0 will probably be the next version of Samsung’s custom Android skin. It will start rolling out to Galaxy devices as soon as the testing concludes on eligible models. Like last year, we are guessing that Samsung’s Android 14 upgrade will go live later this year.
One UI 6.0 will bring more bells and whistles than just Pixel’s Android 14 OS. Samsung is known for innovation and the next One UI version would be a big hit for the company. As consumers prefer software nowadays, One UI unquestionably attracts them with neat and user-friendly UX.
Features we may see in Samsung’s Android 14
As showcased by Google, Android 14 focuses on minor yet noticeable user interface tweaks. There’s a new Dynamic Back Arrow, graphics upgrades (for devs), data access transparency, modem/driver updates, and enhanced system optimization among others.
Until the official version, the US tech giant will continue to test and add new features to the Android 14 OS. Beyond that, it maintains quarterly feature drops so Android stays updated with useful features and regular enhancements for a better user experience.
1. Satellite Connectivity
Since Apple and Huawei already debuted Satellite Connectivity on their flagship phones, Samsung should also consider bringing the feature as early as it can. Google’s senior VP for Android earlier Tweeted that support for such connectivity in Android 14 would be a reality.
2. Predictive Back Gestures
Android 14 introduces a prominent back arrow that matches your wallpaper or theme for clearer gesture navigation. One UI 6.0 should not leave cloning this feature for Galaxy consumers along with predictive back gestures, which afford you a glimpse of the screen that a swipe-back gesture will take you to.
3. Improved Share Options
Android 14 reportedly allows apps to add custom actions to system sharesheets and more app data is being used to determine the ranking of users’ potential share targets. As Google is further improving Android’s share menu, such fruitful things can’t be skipped in the One UI.
4. Restricting Photo and Video Access
Android apps usually want your permission to have access to all photos and videos stored on the smartphone. To make it further transparent, Android 14 unlocks the possibility to select the specific photos and videos it is allowed to access. Galaxy users may surely get this change with the Android 14-based One UI 6.0 update.
See you at SDC23!
Samsung teamed up with RM, the leader of BTS, to be the ambassador of their Art TVs. This exciting news dropped in June 2025, and things got rolling at Art Basel in Basel, Switzerland, from June 19-22.
RM of BTS was there, chatting about his love for art and how Samsung Art TVs bring beautiful, curated pieces right into people’s homes. RM is a collector who’s always posting about museum trips or sharing thoughts on his favorite pieces with fans.
He often shares insights from museum visits and his growing collection. At Samsung’s ArtCube lounge during Art Basel, RM discussed living with art in the digital age. He emphasized how technology opens new doors for discovering art globally.
“When I connect with a piece of art, it’s like having a silent conversation,” said RM. “Samsung Art TV lets those conversations happen anywhere. It makes it easier for people to discover artists, reflect on their own emotions and build a personal connection with the art they choose to live with.”
With Samsung Art TVs like The Frame, MICRO LED, or Neo QLED 8K—you get access to over 3,500 stunning artworks through the Samsung Art Store. RM even curated his collection, complete with his notes, so you can see art through his eyes.
Source – Samsung Newsroom
RM shared his dream of creating a space to house his art collection, connecting Eastern and Western influences. He hinted at possibly calling it “rkive,” like his Instagram handle, though plans remain in early stages.
He also expressed hope that his collection could one day be shared digitally via Samsung Art TV. “Unless you live in Seoul, accessing museums in Korea is tough,” RM noted. He envisions an “art bridge” where users can press a button to explore new art worlds.
Samsung could be screwed if Apple progresses on its intention to buy AI startup Perplexity. In a recent development, reports emerged claiming that Apple is considering acquiring Perplexity in a bold move amid rising AI competition.
Bloomberg report reveals that Apple executives have held internal talks about potentially bidding for AI startup, Perplexity. It’s a pretty shocking revelation that came after Samsung eyed Perplexity integration as the default assistant.
With the acquisition, Apple reportedly plans to integrate AI-powered search capabilities, such as Perplexity AI, into its Safari browser. If the company succeeds, the iPhone may finally ditch Google for a search engine in favor of Perplexity.
Reports suggest Apple executives’ discussions on buying Perplexity are at an early stage. The current stage of consideration isn’t too cemented to be materialized in a real offer to Perplexity regarding acquisition.
Image – Perplexity AI App
As of now, Apple executives haven’t reportedly discussed a bid with Perplexity’s management. Reuters reached out to Apple and Perplexity spokespersons to have an official update on reports, but Apple didn’t respond to the query.
“We have no knowledge of any current or future M&A discussions involving Perplexity,” Perplexity said in response to a Reuters request for comment.
Apple previously partnered with OpenAI to power AI on iPhone 15 Pro and later models. Reports emerged claiming an Apple-Google partnership for Gemini on iPhone. However, the company now intends to acquire Perplexity.
Samsung is already far ahead of Apple in Mobile AI offerings, thanks to Galaxy AI. The iPhone maker has faced unusual challenges in optimization, leading AI features and the next-generation Siri assistant to be delayed indefinitely.
The report also sheds light on a previous incident when Meta Platforms tried to buy Perplexity earlier this year. Google remains the search engine king, but Perplexity and ChatGPT have grown rapidly with their AI search options.
Seems like Gen Z in the US is turning away from Samsung and Apple phones, chasing the nostalgia of the BlackBerry smartphone. Many were too young to use BlackBerrys during their 2000s peak but now crave their retro charm.
TikTok drives this BlackBerry revival, with #blackberry videos surpassing 125,000 posts. These “nostalgia tech” clips show users customizing old models, offering a break from the constant updates of Samsung and Apple ecosystems.
Another TikToker whose video got 2.7 million views said BlackBerry phones help curb phone addiction. “My iPhone is ruining my life,” she noted, a sentiment shared by those tired of Samsung and Apple’s immersive ecosystems.
A viral TikTok by @notchonnie, featuring a white BlackBerry Classic, hit over 4 million views. She captioned, “Is it practical? No. Is it fun? Yes.” This reflects Gen Z’s rejection of Samsung and Apple’s high-tech norm.
The New York Times reports that Gen Z is fueling demand for old BlackBerry models or their re-release. Unlike Samsung’s Galaxy or Apple’s iPhone, BlackBerrys offer a simpler, less app-driven experience that resonates with this generation.
Image – Kim Kardashian using BlackBerry phone | Source – Frazer Harrison / Getty Images
BlackBerry, once a smartphone leader, quit the smartphone market in 2020. A failed 5G BlackBerry attempt by OnwardMobility dashed hopes for new models. Still, a portion of Gen Z prefers these retro phones over Samsung and Apple.
The appeal lies in BlackBerry’s unique features: a tactile keyboard and trackball, unlike the touchscreens of Samsung and Apple phones. BlackBerry Messenger (BBM), a private chat service, lets users connect without the app overload.
Nostalgia tech blends retro design with modern appeal. Refurbished BlackBerry handsets, costing far less than a new Galaxy or iPhone, allow Gen Z to embrace simplicity without the premium price tags of today’s leading smartphones.
A recent leak suggests that the Galaxy Watch could soon let users pay for things using Samsung Wallet in South Korea. This feature, expected to roll out soon, could make shopping a whole lot easier with just a tap of your wrist.
Samsung’s been tinkering with digital wallet upgrades for a while now. The company is testing NFC payments, which are already a hit elsewhere, and with more NFC spots rapidly emerging in Korea, this could catch on fast.
The update doesn’t stop at just payments.
Another leak indicates that transit cards will also be supported on the Galaxy Watch. This means you can tap your watch at transit terminals, streamlining your daily commute without needing your phone or a separate card.
The addition of transit card support takes it further. Your Galaxy Watch could store payment cards and passes, turning it into a one-stop solution for shopping and travel. It’s all about convenience, right from your wrist!
Samsung has already merged Pay with Wallet for streamlined experiences. Now, with Samsung Wallet preparing for a massive Wear OS upgrade in South Korea, Galaxy Watch users have another reason to rejoice at the imminent launch.
When to expect?
Galaxy Watch 8 might debut the Wallet payments feature in South Korea. The new Wear OS 6-based One UI 8 Watch might expand the functionality to even more Watch owners with older versions through a firmware update.
Samsung might also advance the rollout by bringing it through a Wallet app update. NFC-based payments are already available in the Global market. Expansion to South Korea will give Samsung Wallet a much-needed boost over Apple Pay.
Latest Update:
Android 16 with Samsung’s One UI 8 will be released for Samsung devices this summer 2025, confirmed by Google. Samsung has officially launched the One UI 8 beta program for the Galaxy S25 series on May 28, 2025.
- Android 16 is now official, and Samsung has also released 2 One UI 8 Beta builds for the S25 models.
Samsung’s One UI is a big part of what makes Galaxy phones and tablets unique. With One UI 7 finally rolling out to users, attention is shifting to the next chapter: One UI 8. The upcoming software update, based on Android 16, brings exciting new features to Samsung devices.
There’s confirmation that it will arrive earlier than usual, marking a significant change in how Samsung releases software updates. In this article, we’ll discuss the release date, the beta testing program, which devices will get One UI 8 based on Samsung’s update policy, and what this means for Galaxy users.
Samsung One UI 8 Release Date:
Historically, Samsung has aligned its major One UI releases with the annual Android update cycle, typically landing in the fourth quarter, around October or November, following Google’s stable Android release. For instance, One UI 6 debuted on October 30, 2023, while One UI 7, delayed significantly, launched on April 7, 2025. However, One UI 8 is breaking this pattern completely.
Android 16-based One UI 8 will be released this summer in 2025. This update, confirmed by Google, marks a significant acceleration in Samsung’s update cycle, aiming to align closely with Google’s timeline. The company is targeting an ambitious summer 2025 stable release timeline, potentially arriving as early as July, months ahead of Samsung’s traditional fall update schedule.
Samsung One UI 8 Beta Program:
Samsung officially launched the One UI 8 beta program on May 28, 2025, starting with the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra in Germany, Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The Beta program has now expanded to India and Poland.
Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra users can apply to install the One UI 8 beta through the Samsung Members app using the new sign-up process announced by Samsung. This time, Samsung surprised Galaxy users by releasing the beta program without any major official announcement.
The beta program follows Samsung’s usual approach of starting with flagship devices and expanding to other models later. Samsung is already rolling out One UI 8 Beta 2 for the Galaxy S25 series and may soon extend the beta program to other devices, including the Galaxy Watch 7 and Ultra.
Samsung One UI 8 Eligible Devices:
While Samsung hasn’t officially confirmed the One UI 8 device list, we can rely on its official software update policy to identify the devices guaranteed to receive the update. Samsung now offers up to seven years of OS upgrades for select flagship devices (starting with the Galaxy S24 series) and four years for others, alongside five years of security updates for many models. Based on this policy and the confirmed One UI 7 rollout, the following devices are certain to be eligible for One UI 8:
- Galaxy S Series:
- Galaxy S25 Edge, S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra, S24 FE, Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra, S23 FE, Galaxy S22, S22+, S22 Ultra.
- Galaxy Z Series:
- Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7 (To launch with One UI 8), Galaxy Z Fold6, Z Flip6, Galaxy Z Fold5, Z Flip5, Galaxy Z Fold4, Z Flip4.
- Galaxy Tab Series:
- Galaxy Tab S10+, Tab S10 Ultra, Galaxy Tab S9, S9+, S9 Ultra, Galaxy Tab S8, S8+, S8 Ultra.
Mid-range models like the Galaxy A55 and A35 may also qualify under the four-year policy. Older devices, such as the Galaxy S21 series, may miss out, as four-year support may end before One UI 8 arrives.
One UI 8
The summer 2025 launch of One UI 8 aligns perfectly with Samsung’s upcoming foldables—the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, expected in July 2025. These devices will ship with Android 16-based One UI 8 preinstalled. This marks a significant change for Samsung, bringing a major update much sooner than fans expected.
If you have any questions about One UI. Let me know on my X handle (SamsungSWUpdate), and I’ll help you figure out when it might get the update!
Disclaimer:
Some information in this article is based on historical patterns and Samsung’s official software update policy as of June 21, 2025. Release dates for devices beyond the Galaxy S25 series and complete feature lists are speculative and subject to change, as Samsung continues to expand the beta program. Device eligibility reflects confirmed support policies but may expand or shift based on future announcements. Stay tuned to Samsung’s official channels for the latest updates.
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