Samsung has yet to roll out One UI 7, based on Android 15, while Google has already released the Android 16 Developer Preview and reportedly plans to launch Android 16 much sooner than expected.
However, it seems that Samsung isn’t far behind in software development for One UI based on Android 16. SmartPrix has reportedly found references to One UI 8 (One_UI_8_0) based on Android 16 in various places in Samsung’s software ecosystem.
It’s actually typical for a smartphone manufacturer to start testing future updates early. And these references to One UI 8 means the software is right on track with the development of Android 16.
One UI 8 may come with Decal Shader
Interestingly, the report suggests Samsung could include a feature called “Decal Shader,” marking the return of elements reminiscent of Samsung’s TouchWiz era. Decal Shader, largely absent since the transition to One UI, is speculated to enhance visual transitions on the home screen compared to the current One UI 7.
The exact implementation of the feature, however, remains unclear. Well-known leaker Ice Universe suggests it might function as a new lock screen animation with a ripple effect, offering a modern twist on older design principles.
If true, the feature could introduce smoother and more visually engaging animations to Samsung’s interface, complementing its existing focus on customization and fluidity.
Despite these early leaks, One UI 8 is still far from release. Samsung is set to launch the Galaxy S25 series with One UI 7 on January 22, and the company may reserve the One UI 8 update for a mid-cycle software rollout, giving it ample time to refine the feature.
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