Samsung continues its steady push to update its devices to the latest version of its Android skin, One UI 8. The company has now rolled out the stable update to seven more smartphones, expanding the availability of the new features, performance improvements, and design enhancements that One UI 8 brings to the table.
This development is part of Samsung’s ongoing commitment to providing timely software support, especially for users with devices that are not at the flagship level. With the addition of these seven models, Samsung has widened the reach of One UI 8 considerably across different price tiers and device categories.
What’s New in One UI 8?
One UI 8 is Samsung’s custom Android interface based on Android 14. It brings a refreshed design, improved privacy features, smoother animations, and enhanced performance. The update is not just about visual changes; it includes functional improvements as well.
Key highlights include:
- Smarter Notifications: The notification panel has been refined for clarity and quicker interaction.
- Battery and Performance Tweaks: Battery usage has been optimized, and apps now load more quickly.
- Improved Customization: Users can now personalize their lock screens, widgets, and themes even more than before.
- Updated Privacy Dashboard: A clearer overview of which apps have accessed sensitive permissions, like location or microphone, in the past 24 hours.
- Better Multitasking: The new version also enhances split-screen and pop-up window functionality for improved multitasking.
These upgrades help users feel more in control of their device experience, whether they are using a budget phone or a premium model.
The Seven Devices Getting the Update
While Samsung has already updated many of its flagship models, this latest wave of updates targets mid-range and older premium devices. The seven smartphones receiving the One UI 8 stable update include:
- Galaxy S21 FE
- Galaxy A52
- Galaxy A72
- Galaxy M52 5G
- Galaxy F42 5G
- Galaxy Note 20
- Galaxy S20 Plus
These models were selected based on regional testing and user base size. Samsung has been running beta programs for many of these devices over the past few months, and the feedback appears to have led to a stable release.
The update is being pushed over-the-air (OTA), meaning users will receive a notification when it is available for their region. However, depending on carrier approval and market, the rollout could take a few days to a couple of weeks to reach everyone.
How to Check for the Update
If you’re using one of the supported devices and haven’t received the update yet, you can check manually by going to:
Settings > Software Update > Download and Install
Ensure your device is connected to Wi-Fi and has sufficient battery before starting the update process.
Samsung’s Update Strategy
Samsung has made significant strides in recent years in terms of software support. The company now promises up to four years of Android updates and five years of security patches for many of its smartphones. This shift has not only increased the longevity of its devices but has also helped boost user trust and loyalty.
One UI 8’s rollout to mid-range and older devices further proves Samsung’s commitment to providing a consistent software experience across its ecosystem, regardless of price point.
Final Thoughts
The expansion of One UI 8 to seven more devices shows that Samsung is serious about keeping its smartphone lineup current and competitive. As software becomes an increasingly important factor in the smartphone experience, regular updates like this make a significant difference in usability, security, and overall satisfaction.
If you own one of the eligible devices, it’s a good time to update and take advantage of the new features and improvements that One UI 8 offers.
FAQs:
1. What is One UI 8 based on?
One UI 8 is based on Android 14 and includes Samsung’s custom user interface enhancements.
2. Which phones are receiving the One UI 8 update?
The latest update is rolling out to Galaxy S21 FE, A52, A72, M52 5G, F42 5G, Note 20, and S20 Plus.
3. How can I check if the update is available on my phone?
Go to Settings > Software Update > Download and Install to manually check for the update.
4. Are there any major features in One UI 8?
Yes, it includes design improvements, enhanced privacy controls, better multitasking features, and battery optimizations.
5. Will more Samsung devices receive One UI 8 in the future?
Yes, Samsung is expected to continue rolling out the update to additional models in the coming months.
