Google has officially launched Android 16 Beta 4, marking one of the last beta updates before the highly anticipated final release. This update arrives at a critical time, as Samsung is still navigating the rollout of Android 15. The Android 16 preview program initially began in November 2024, allowing developers and enthusiasts to test new features ahead of the official launch. Historically, Google has released only one Android version per year, but the accelerated development process for Android 16 has enabled the company to share its first preview shortly after the launch of Android 15 in October.
The test program for Android 16 began to expand with the release of Beta 1 in January, and now, with the introduction of Beta 4, it appears that Google is nearing the final stages of development. The latest update confirms the achievement of the Platform Stability milestone, which indicates that the software has finalized internal and external APIs, as well as app-facing behaviors and non-SDK API lists. There are speculations that Google may introduce another test build before the public announcement, potentially scheduled for June or July.
This development occurs as Samsung is grappling with the rollout of Android 15, branded as One UI 7. The beta program for One UI 7 commenced just one month after the launch of the Android 16 preview, but the rollout has been plagued with complications. Delays in the rollout may be attributed to the expansion of generative AI for mobile devices, alongside late-stage development and testing challenges. Additionally, the launch of the new Galaxy S25 series may have diverted Samsung's resources, further complicating the timely delivery of updates.
As of now, Android 15 has only been made available for the Galaxy S24 series, as well as the Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 in select markets. Many previous Galaxy device owners are still awaiting this OS upgrade. Amidst the One UI 7 saga, Samsung has already begun laying the groundwork for One UI 8, based on Android 16, indicating a push to rectify the rollout delays associated with Android 15.
Samsung recently conducted its first batch of software releases via an OTA update, which faced a temporary pause due to internal issues but resumed shortly after. This situation has raised concerns regarding the completeness of One UI 7 on the Galaxy S25 series, which was initially unveiled three months ago. The One UI 7 beta has generated considerable buzz online, featuring numerous user interface changes, including redesigned elements and enhanced animations. Despite the frustrations stemming from the delayed rollout, many users have noted improved software optimizations in One UI 7.
While existing users of older Galaxy devices eagerly await the OS upgrade, the Galaxy S25 series has become the first to ship with One UI 7 pre-installed. The S25 series boasts exclusive features like AI-powered Now Brief, AI Filters, and Log Video. Although some of these features have since become available on the Galaxy S24 series and other previous generation devices, the overall experience on the S25 series is marked by remarkable smoothness and interactivity.
The forthcoming April 2025 update for One UI 7 is anticipated to introduce notable enhancements, including improved live notifications for the music player and an upgraded charging animation with a larger charging icon in the status bar. These updates had already been previewed in the beta program for Galaxy S24 and S23 series devices.
After releasing the stable One UI 7 update for the Galaxy S24, Samsung has shared a comprehensive update roadmap for its Galaxy devices in Canada. The rollout will occur gradually, extending until June 2025. The roadmap categorizes updates based on device series, including the Galaxy A series, Galaxy S series, Galaxy Tab series, and Galaxy Z series.
Eligible models for updates are scheduled as follows:
Galaxy A Series updates: May 2025Galaxy S Series updates: May 2025Galaxy Z Series updates: June 2025Galaxy Tab updates: May - July 2025Additionally, many Samsung smartphone users have reported a persistent green line issue appearing on their screens, particularly affecting flagship models like the Galaxy S21 and S22 Ultra. In response, Samsung has extended its one-time free screen replacement program for affected devices until September 31, 2025. Users experiencing this issue are encouraged to visit a Samsung service center to take advantage of this offer.
In a bid to enhance the online shopping experience, Samsung US has introduced a new Gift Ideas section on its online store. This feature categorizes products to help consumers quickly find the perfect gift based on preferences and budget. Categories include gifts for sports fans, wellness enthusiasts, gamers, tech lovers, and more.
The Gift Ideas section is regularly updated, showcasing the latest Samsung products and special deals, making it easier than ever to find great gifts for any occasion.
For those looking for thoughtful gift options, be sure to explore the Gift Ideas Section on the Samsung US website.
