Samsung’s cautious One UI 8 beta rollout prioritizes stability, offering fewer test spots after last year’s problematic One UI 7 launch

Samsung has kicked off its One UI 8 beta programme, but Galaxy fans hoping to join the testing phase have faced disappointment. Compared to the previous year’s One UI 7 beta, Samsung is offering far fewer spots for users to participate.

The One UI 8 beta began on May 28, 2025, targeting Galaxy S25 owners in key markets including the US, South Korea, the UK, and Germany. However, the limited spots filled within a day, leaving thousands of eager fans unable to secure a place.

A reliable Samsung insider has shed light on the company’s approach. The source revealed that Samsung deliberately limited beta access, a sharp contrast to the more open One UI 7 beta last year, which was plagued by issues such as security flaws and lock screen malfunctions. That troubled launch led to a delayed final release, which only arrived in April 2025—months behind schedule.

Samsung’s reasoning is clear: the new One UI 8 beta is reportedly much more stable than previous iterations. By restricting the number of testers, Samsung aims to maintain tighter control over feedback, enabling engineers to resolve issues efficiently before the wider public release.

Currently, the beta programme is exclusively open to Galaxy S25 devices. However, the insider hinted that Samsung is also testing One UI 8 on its foldable models, the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6, suggesting that these devices could join the beta soon. Additionally, Galaxy S24 owners are expected to get access after the S25 rollout concludes, although exact timelines remain unconfirmed.

Users who missed out on the initial beta should not lose hope. Samsung has promised a “Beta 2” phase, though no dates have been announced. To improve chances of securing an invite, users are advised to keep the Samsung Members app installed and updated, as beta invitations are sent out through this platform.

Despite the frustration caused by fewer beta spots, Samsung’s cautious approach appears wise. After the major issues with One UI 7, the company seems determined to avoid repeating past mistakes and ensure One UI 8 delivers a smooth experience on launch.

The stable version of One UI 8 is expected to debut in July or August 2025, coinciding with the release of Samsung’s latest foldable phones. Until then, Galaxy users must remain patient, monitor the Samsung Members app for invitations, and hope for inclusion in the next beta round.

Samsung’s strategy signals a shift towards prioritising quality and stability, reflecting lessons learned from a turbulent previous cycle. For Galaxy users, this promises a better overall experience with One UI 8—once it arrives.