Samsung Expands Android 16 Update to Older Galaxy Devices

Samsung Expands Android 16 Update to Older Galaxy Devices
6 days ago

Samsung has officially begun rolling out the Android 16 update with One UI 8 for a range of older and newer Galaxy smartphones, ahead of the originally planned October release. This update aims to improve user experience, device performance, battery efficiency, and camera features, making older devices feel faster and more modern.

Galaxy Devices Receiving Android 16 First

Flagship Devices

Samsung usually prioritizes its latest flagship phones before gradually expanding updates to the Galaxy A series and mid-range devices. However, this update cycle includes a surprise, as one mid-range device is receiving the update earlier than expected.

Devices in the First Wave of Android 16 Update:

  • Galaxy S24

  • Galaxy S24+

  • Galaxy S24 Ultra

  • Galaxy S24 FE

  • Galaxy Z Fold 6

  • Galaxy Z Flip 6

  • Galaxy A56

Rollout Regions

The Android 16 and One UI 8 update has started in South Korea, with a global rollout expected in the coming days.

  • The inclusion of the Galaxy A56 is an early surprise for mid-range Galaxy users.

Why Samsung Is Ahead of Schedule

Official Update List

All of these devices were included in Samsung’s official One UI 8 update list for October, putting the company ahead of its planned rollout schedule.

  • This is especially notable after the One UI 7 rollout, which experienced delays and user complaints earlier this year.

Devices Still Awaiting Updates

Several devices are still waiting for the update:

  • More Galaxy A series smartphones

  • Samsung’s latest tablets

  • Galaxy S23 and S22 series

Upcoming Rollout Schedule

More devices are expected to receive the Android 16 and One UI 8 updates in November, expanding access to millions of Samsung users worldwide.

Features of Android 16 and One UI 8

System Performance

  • Improved system performance for faster app loading and smoother multitasking

  • Enhanced battery management for longer device uptime

Camera Improvements

  • Clearer photo capture

  • Improved performance in low-light conditions

User Interface and Security

  • Modern and intuitive UI design

  • Enhanced security features to protect user data

Looking Ahead: One UI 8.5 and Galaxy S26

Early Testing

Although One UI 8 is just arriving on older devices, Samsung is already testing One UI 8.5 internally.

Expected Features

  • iOS-inspired design elements, particularly in the settings menu

  • Faster navigation and app performance

  • Smoother transitions and animations

  • Additional UI improvements for a seamless user experience

Release Timeline

The update is expected to launch with the Galaxy S26 series in early 2026.

  • Users will need to wait for further leaks to discover all the new features of One UI 8.5.