Firstly, sub-beta test builds were seen on the Galaxy S25 variants, with some extremely new build numbers like S938BXXU1BYC1 build numbers that are worlds apart from those of the One UI 7 software currently being pushed out. This quite evidently means that Samsung has begun development way earlier than they usually would for an Android version update. Further proof of its existence came on Geekbench, where a Galaxy S25 model appeared to be running Android 16, which seems to be One UI 8.

A community moderator recently confirmed, "We're in the early stages," so don't get too excited yet. That said, it quite aptly fits as an answer to the claims made by the insider: Samsung's software team is indeed going full steam ahead with testing this next version on numerous devices. 

It was a good move by Samsung to knock itself into gear for Android 16. After the One UI 7 delay, fans felt disappointed and ignored by the company. Pushing the next update would allow Samsung to make amends and prove that it cares about quick releases. With Google moving fast with Android 16, starting developer previews in November 2024 and public betas very soon after, Samsung cannot afford to drag its feet. 

If Samsung pulls this off, it's a Taiwan-attack win for Galaxy users: To think Android 16 and a new version of One UI could hit your phone in mid-2025 maybe June.