Samsung Accelerates One UI Development with Google’s Help

Faster Rollout Thanks to New Collaboration Model

Samsung has made remarkable progress in delivering One UI 8, built on Android 16, particularly for its latest foldable smartphones. This acceleration stems largely from adopting Google’s “Trunk-Stable” development model — a more streamlined approach that allows operating system updates to be finalised months earlier than before.

This shift marks a significant change for the South Korean tech giant, aligning more closely with Google’s own software development cycle. The result is not only a faster rollout but also a potential improvement in overall software stability and quality.

One UI 8 Arrives Sooner Than Expected

Following a notably slow release cycle for One UI 7, Samsung surprised many with the swift delivery of One UI 8. Just a few weeks after Google officially released Android 16 for Pixel devices and the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), Samsung began shipping its Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 with the new One UI 8 based on Android 16.

This rapid turnaround is no coincidence. According to Sally Hyesoon Jeong, Executive Vice President and Head of Framework R&D at Samsung’s Mobile Experience division, the company has embraced the same single-branch development strategy used by Google. Although Google does not require phone manufacturers like Samsung to adopt this model, Samsung recognised the benefits and voluntarily made the transition.

Aligning with Google’s Release Cycle

Jeong emphasised that the new Trunk-Stable approach was instrumental in enabling Samsung to release One UI 8 so soon after Android 16’s debut. She also revealed that Samsung plans to align its release cadence with Google’s in future, aiming to deliver the latest Android versions to Galaxy devices more quickly.

While Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 users already enjoy One UI 8, those with other Galaxy models are still waiting for the update. Beta versions are currently available for select devices, with the final version expected to roll out shortly.

Looking ahead, if Google maintains its updated release schedule, Samsung’s major One UI versions might shift from launching alongside the Galaxy S series in early spring to debuting in the summer, coinciding with its foldable lineup.

Trunk-Stable Model: Stability Meets Speed

Samsung’s adoption of the Trunk-Stable model marks a significant overhaul in its software development process. Rather than working across multiple branches, developers now focus on a single, stable codebase. New features are introduced behind feature flags to preserve system integrity while enabling quicker integration.

This method has already yielded faster updates for devices like the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series. It also holds promise for extending support cycles for older devices and improving Samsung’s reputation for slow software updates — an issue that has long affected customer satisfaction.

High Hopes, Measured Risks

Despite its potential, the Trunk-Stable model is not without challenges. Samsung must consistently maintain the core development branch to prevent delays and ensure timely integration of new features without compromising stability.

Nevertheless, the model represents a promising strategy to enhance the company’s update efficiency. If successfully implemented, it could not only speed up update delivery but also strengthen Samsung’s position in the highly competitive Android market.

In summary, Samsung’s close collaboration with Google and its shift to the Trunk-Stable development model marks a pivotal moment in the company’s software strategy — one that may redefine how quickly and reliably Galaxy users receive Android updates.