Samsung isn’t focusing only on its flagship lineup when it comes to rolling out One UI 8.0. The company is already testing Android 16 firmware for the Galaxy A56, suggesting this mid-range phone may be among the first non-flagships to receive the update.
This speculation comes from early firmware builds spotted on Samsung’s servers, which indicate development is well underway.
Samsung aims to avoid past delays with a faster One UI 8 rollout
Last year’s One UI 7 rollout didn’t exactly win praise for speed, especially for mid-range devices. But this time around, Samsung seems determined to stay ahead of schedule. With Android 16 wrapping up development over the summer and Samsung collaborating closely with Google, things are already moving quicker than usual.
Evidence of this faster pace can be seen in the Galaxy A56. Despite not being part of Samsung’s limited beta program, which is currently reserved for Galaxy S25 series devices, the A56 has shown early signs of getting Android 16 sooner than expected.
Firmware development for the phone is already in motion, suggesting it could be among the first mid-range devices to get the One UI 8 update not long after it debuts on Samsung’s newest foldables.
What’s new in One UI 8?
No major visual overhaul this time — One UI 8 is all about polish and smart enhancements.
One UI 8.0 doesn’t bring a visual overhaul like its predecessor, but there are subtle design tweaks such as updated button styles in Samsung apps that refine the interface. It’s more about polish than transformation this time around.
Feature-wise, One UI 8 builds on Android 16’s under-the-hood improvements. It also adds Galaxy S25 exclusives that weren’t available in earlier updates. These include “Now Brief,” an AI assistant that suggests timely actions based on your habits, and support for log video recording in the camera app.
Samsung has also revamped Samsung Internet, improved Samsung DeX display support, and made file sharing via Quick Share more seamless.
One UI 8 compatibility and release in the U.S.
Nearly all Samsung phones launched from 2023 onward — including the A56 — are eligible for One UI 8. Flagships will get it first, but this time, it doesn't seem like mid-rangers such as the A56 will be far behind.
The A56’s expected $499 price tag and impressive specs, suggest Samsung may be spacing out its release strategically to avoid clashing with the Galaxy S24 FE.
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Aleksandar is a tech enthusiast with a broad range of interests, from smartphones to space exploration. His curiosity extends to hands-on DIY experiments with his gadgets, and he enjoys switching between different brands to experience the latest innovations. Prior to joining PhoneArena, Aleksandar worked on the Google Art Project, digitizing valuable artworks and gaining diverse perspectives on technology. When he's not immersed in tech, Aleksandar is an outdoorsman who enjoys mountain hikes, wildlife photography, and nature conservation. His interests also extend to martial arts, running, and snowboarding, reflecting his dynamic approach to life and technology.
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