Samsung's newest mid-range phones are receiving their first One UI 8 update.


The Galaxy A36 and Galaxy A56 might just be the world's first Android mid-rangers (from any brand) to run the latest OS version in stable form.
Samsung is providing software support to its budget-friendly customers similar to its premium flagship users.
Following the rollout of stable Android 16-based One UI 8 to the Galaxy S24, S24 Plus, S24 Ultra, S24 FE, Z Fold 6, and Z Flip 6 in South Korea, the Galaxy A36 5G and Galaxy A56 5G are also receiving the update.
Launched about six months ago in international markets and later in the US, the Galaxy A36 5G and A56 5G are the first Galaxy A series phones to get the update, and possibly the first mid-range devices from any brand to upgrade from Android 15.
While Samsung intended to release One UI 8 for these phones in October, a September 25 launch in Brazil is rumored, with potential for broader releases in South America, Asia, and Europe this week.
One UI 8 is not a major update, as it is based on a simplified Android 16 version and focuses on stability and performance improvements rather than visible changes.
The Galaxy A36 and A56 are slated to receive six OS updates over the next five years, making them good options for long-term users, along with the Google Pixel 9a.
Future Android updates may offer more substantial changes. This commitment reflects Samsung's confidence in these devices.
The One UI 8 release indicates a return to form for Samsung's update speed, potentially setting a new standard. However, it's still early to declare it the most successful Android rollout until the update expands beyond South Korea and is free of bugs on the Galaxy A56, A36, S24 series, Z Flip 6, and Z Fold 6.
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