Samsung has restarted the rollout of the One UI 7 update for the Galaxy S24 series, introducing the BYD9 build to address critical issues found in the initial release. Launched first in South Korea on April 17, 2025, the new version of the Android 15-based operating system is now being deployed after a global pause caused by lock screen malfunctions. The resumption is a significant step for users eagerly awaiting a stable update. The company, renowned for its customized interface, faced challenges with the initial rollout but has shown commitment to user experience by swiftly addressing the errors.
The update process began with the Galaxy S24 lineup, including the S24, S24+, and S24 Ultra, and is expected to expand to other devices like the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Z Fold 6 in the coming weeks. The BYD9 build was designed to fix a bug that prevented proper unlocking on devices with Exynos processors, though some Snapdragon units were also affected. Samsung halted the global distribution after reports from South Korean users, where the issue was most pronounced. With the new version, the company aims to restore consumer confidence and ensure a smooth transition to Android 15.
One UI 7, officially unveiled during the 2025 Unpacked event alongside the Galaxy S25 series, introduces a revamped interface and advanced AI features. Despite delays and criticism for the slow rollout, the update promises significant improvements, including enhanced customization, smoother animations, and new security features. The resumed rollout is a crucial move for Samsung, which faces fierce competition from brands like Google and Apple in the premium smartphone market.
- Key improvements in the BYD9 build:
- Fix for the lock screen bug on Exynos and Snapdragon models.
- General system stability enhancements.
- Optimization for devices updated to One UI 7 after April 7.
Background of the initial rollout suspension
The suspension of the One UI 7 rollout caught many Samsung users off guard. Starting on April 7, 2025, the stable version’s distribution was halted just days later due to a severe issue affecting the lock screen functionality. South Korean users, where the update first launched, reported that their Galaxy S24 devices, particularly those with the Exynos 2400 chip, would freeze on the lock screen under certain conditions. The glitch, which also impacted some Snapdragon-equipped units, caused frustration among consumers and raised questions about the company’s testing procedures.
Samsung acted promptly, pausing the global rollout to investigate the root cause of the bug. The decision affected not only the Galaxy S24 series but also the Z Flip 6 and Z Fold 6, which were part of the initial rollout phase. During the suspension, stable One UI 7 builds were removed from the company’s firmware servers, preventing even manual updates. The lack of detailed official statements during this period fueled criticism, with some users voicing discontent on social media platforms.
The BYD9 build, now being rolled out, is a refined version of the initial release. Beyond fixing the lock screen issue, it includes stability improvements to ensure a more reliable experience. Samsung has stated that the update is a hotfix for devices already on the stable One UI 7 but plans to expand the rollout to other markets soon, including the United States, Europe, and Asia.
Impact on Galaxy S24 users
For Galaxy S24 owners, the resumption of the One UI 7 rollout is a welcome development. Launched in 2024, the S24 series is eligible for seven years of OS updates, and One UI 7 marks the first major upgrade since its debut with One UI 6.1. The new version offers a redesigned interface with vibrant app icons, a split notification and quick settings panel, and smoother animations for improved system fluidity.
Users who encountered issues with the initial One UI 7 release, particularly in South Korea, can now update to the BYD9 build. Samsung advises checking for the update manually via Settings > Software Update > Download and Install, as automatic notifications may be delayed depending on the region and device model. The update, approximately 5.2 GB for those still on One UI 6.1, also includes the April 2025 security patch, enhancing protection against vulnerabilities.
While the lock screen bug fix is the primary focus, the BYD9 build also addresses other minor issues reported during the One UI 7 beta phase. The beta program, which began in December 2024, allowed users to test early versions of the system, but even after six beta updates and two hotfixes, the initial stable release was not flawless. Samsung acknowledged the severity of the glitch and issued apologies to affected users, pledging stricter testing for future updates.
New features in One UI 7 for users
One UI 7 brings a host of features that elevate the user experience on Galaxy devices. Built on Android 15, the update reflects Samsung’s focus on integrating artificial intelligence and customization into its interface. Key additions include AI-powered writing tools, automatic call transcription in up to 20 languages, and a Knox Matrix security dashboard that monitors the status of all connected Samsung devices, from smartphones to tablets and appliances.
- Highlights of One UI 7:
- Revamped interface with colorful icons and improved visibility.
- Now Bar: displays real-time activities on the lock screen.
- Advanced customization with larger widgets and folders on the homescreen.
- Galaxy AI features, such as Audio Eraser for video sound editing.
The update also enhances usability by separating the notification and quick settings panels, making it easier to access alerts and controls. Samsung emphasized that One UI 7 was designed for a more intuitive experience, with fluid transitions and greater control over the device’s appearance. However, some exclusive features, like Now Brief, remain limited to the Galaxy S25 series, sparking discussions among users of older models.
Global expansion timeline
The One UI 7 rollout with the BYD9 build kicked off in South Korea, but Samsung plans to extend distribution to other markets in the coming weeks. The company shared a preliminary timeline for the update in regions like the United States, Europe, India, and other Asian countries. Below is an overview of the expected schedule:
- April 2025: Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra, Z Flip 6, and Z Fold 6 in select markets, including the US, Europe, and South Korea.
- Late April: Rollout begins for Galaxy S23, S23 FE, Z Flip 5, and Z Fold 5.
- May 2025: Expansion to devices like Galaxy Tab S10, Tab S9, S22, and mid-range models such as A34 and A35.
- June and July 2025: Updates for older devices and tablets, including Galaxy S21 and Tab S8, per the India roadmap.
Samsung noted that the timeline could shift if new issues arise. The company is closely monitoring the BYD9 build’s performance to prevent further setbacks. Users in regions like Australia and New Zealand are expected to receive the update soon, with the global rollout gaining momentum throughout April.
Challenges faced by Samsung
The One UI 7 rollout pause exposed weaknesses in Samsung’s software development and testing processes. Despite an extensive beta program starting in December 2024 with six major updates, the initial stable release had critical flaws. The lock screen bug, primarily affecting Exynos models in South Korea, drew criticism from users and analysts who questioned the thoroughness of the company’s testing.
The delayed launch of One UI 7, arriving nearly six months after the beta began, also fueled frustrations. As Samsung prepared to release the Galaxy S25 series with One UI 7 pre-installed, users of older devices like the Galaxy S24 faced significant delays. Competitors like Google, which rolled out Android 15 for Pixel devices in October 2024, added pressure on Samsung to speed up its rollout.
Samsung now faces the challenge of rebuilding consumer trust. The swift response with the BYD9 build is a positive step, but the company must ensure the next rollout phases are issue-free. Additionally, preparations for One UI 8, based on Android 16, are already underway, with rumors suggesting incremental improvements and new features for the gallery and file management apps.
User reactions
The resumption of the One UI 7 rollout has been met with relief but also caution among users. On social media, Galaxy S24 owners expressed satisfaction with the lock screen bug fix, though some remain wary of the update’s overall stability. Reports of minor issues, such as touch screen glitches and call functionality problems, persist, though Samsung claims the BYD9 build resolves most of these concerns.
Samsung’s enthusiast community, known for its excitement over updates, is closely tracking the global rollout. Online forums and groups discuss the potential for features like Now Brief to be extended to older models in One UI 8. Meanwhile, Samsung encourages users to report any issues with the new build, providing direct support channels for feedback.
The user experience with One UI 7 will be pivotal for Samsung’s reputation in the smartphone market. With intensifying competition, the company must deliver a reliable and innovative operating system to maintain its leadership among Android device makers.
Outlook for other devices
Beyond the Galaxy S24 series, other devices are slated to receive One UI 7. Samsung confirmed that the Galaxy S23, S23 FE, Z Flip 5, and Z Fold 5 will get the update starting in late April, with a broader rollout planned for May. Mid-range models like the Galaxy A34 and A35 are also included in the schedule, reflecting Samsung’s commitment to updating a wide range of devices.
The Galaxy Tab S10 and Tab S9 series will be updated in May, bringing the same interface and AI features available on smartphones. Samsung also plans to bring One UI 7 to older devices, such as the Galaxy S21 and S22, by July, ensuring even devices launched years ago receive Android 15. This long-term support strategy is a key differentiator for the brand, which offers up to seven years of updates for its latest flagships.
The expansion of One UI 7 to other devices will be closely watched, especially after the initial launch issues. Samsung is aware of the need to avoid further hiccups and plans to roll out incremental updates to address any issues detected during the global rollout.
AI innovations in One UI 7
One UI 7 stands out for its heavy emphasis on artificial intelligence, a core pillar of Samsung’s 2025 strategy. Features like Audio Eraser, which allows users to remove unwanted sounds from videos, and AI-powered writing tools that correct grammar and adjust text tone, exemplify how the company is embedding AI into the user experience. Automatic call transcription, available in up to 20 languages, is particularly valuable for professionals needing to log conversations without manual note-taking.
The Knox Matrix Dashboard is another notable addition, providing a unified view of the security status across all connected Samsung devices. This feature is especially relevant amid growing concerns about digital privacy. Samsung also enhanced device integration, enabling smartphones, tablets, and wearables to work more seamlessly together.
While some AI features are exclusive to the Galaxy S25 series, most are available on One UI 7 for older devices like the Galaxy S24. The company plans to further expand these capabilities in One UI 8, expected in mid-2025 with the launch of the next foldables, such as the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Z Fold 7.
- Benefits of AI features in One UI 7:
- Advanced audio editing with Audio Eraser.
- Real-time call transcription in multiple languages.
- Writing tools with automatic correction and text formatting.
- Security monitoring via Knox Matrix Dashboard.
Preparations for One UI 8
As Samsung focuses on the One UI 7 rollout, preparations for One UI 8, based on Android 16, are already in progress. Rumors suggest the next version will bring incremental improvements, including new features for the photo gallery and a redesigned file management app. One UI 8 is expected to debut with Samsung’s next foldables in July 2025 and may extend features like Now Brief to older devices like the Galaxy S24.
The rapid shift to Android 16 aligns with Google’s accelerated development cycle, which released the first Android 16 developer preview in November 2024. Samsung, which typically follows Android releases closely, aims to avoid the issues encountered with One UI 7 by intensifying beta testing and anticipating potential flaws. The company is also exploring ways to bring One UI 8 features to mid-range devices, broadening access to innovations.
Preparations for One UI 8 come as Samsung navigates logistical challenges, such as trade tariffs impacting its production in Vietnam, where it operates six factories. The company may adjust its launch strategy to minimize costs and maintain competitiveness globally. Despite these hurdles, Samsung remains committed to delivering timely and reliable updates for its devices.
Future expectations
The resumption of the One UI 7 rollout with the BYD9 build is a significant milestone for Samsung, but also a test of its ability to deliver high-quality software on a global scale. Competing directly with giants like Apple and Google, the company must ensure the next phases of the rollout are successful to maintain its reputation as a leading Android brand. The user experience with the new build will be critical in assessing the fix’s success and the effectiveness of Samsung’s development process.
The expansion of One UI 7 to other devices, such as the Galaxy S23 and Tab S series, will provide a clearer picture of the update’s impact. Samsung also faces the challenge of balancing exclusive innovations for new devices, like the Galaxy S25 series, with the need to keep older models relevant. Its long-term support strategy, offering up to seven years of updates, is a competitive advantage but demands consistency in delivering stable software.
As One UI 7 reaches more users, Samsung is already looking ahead to One UI 8 and Android 16. The company is determined to learn from past mistakes and strengthen its testing process to prevent future setbacks. For consumers, the promise of a smoother, more secure, and customizable experience remains the primary draw of One UI, which continues to be one of the most popular interfaces in the Android ecosystem.
- Devices confirmed for One UI 7 in 2025:
- Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra.
- Galaxy Z Flip 6, Z Fold 6.
- Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra, S23 FE.
- Galaxy Tab S10, Tab S9, Z Flip 5, Z Fold 5.