Samsung has officially lifted the curtain on One UI 8, its next-gen Android skin based on Android 16, with a clear focus on security, privacy, and future-ready protections.
Alongside these updates, Samsung hinted that the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Flip7 will debut as the first devices to run the new software out of the box.
At the heart of One UI 8’s improvements is a new feature called Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP). This system creates app-specific encrypted storage zones within the device’s secure area. In practice, that means each app can only access its own sensitive data-nothing more. That data includes user-specific insights like daily routines, gallery behavior, and smart suggestions, all staying local and secure thanks to the combined efforts of KEEP and Knox Vault.
These privacy-focused changes empower AI features such as Now Brief and Samsung Moments to feel more personal while ensuring your personal data never leaves your device. KEEP also supports Samsung’s Personal Data Engine (PDE), which helps customize user experiences without relying on the cloud.
Another significant enhancement in One UI 8 is Samsung’s new proactive defense mechanism: if a device is flagged as high-risk-due to manipulation, rooting, or identity forgery-it will be instantly signed out of the Samsung account. This disconnects cloud services like backup and sync, isolating potential threats before they can spread. Affected users will receive alerts across all connected Galaxy devices.
Looking forward, Samsung is also integrating post-quantum cryptography into its Secure Wi-Fi system. This step boosts protection for encrypted network connections against future quantum-level attacks, safeguarding data even on public networks.
While the updates represent a big leap in privacy tech, not everyone is thrilled. Critics argue that Samsung should prioritize improving battery life and user experience on current versions before pushing out new ones.