'One UI 10' Set for Major Overhaul... Galaxy AI Could Go Paid

A "Context-Based Interface" Instead of an App-Centered Design
Subscription Model Expected, but Views Differ on Rollout Timing

As Samsung Electronics continues rolling out its latest “One UI 9” update based on Android 17, analysts say the next version, “One UI 10,” could shift from an app-centered operating model to a context-centered one and introduce monetization models in earnest, including paid services.

On July 28, the first day of preorders for Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Z8 series, people check out new products, including the Galaxy Z Fold8 and Flip8, at Samsung Gangnam in Seocho-gu, Seoul. Yonhap News Agency

On October 19, reports emerged from the IT industry that Samsung Electronics is testing a major overhaul of the user experience (UX). The update is expected to feature a context-centered design in which artificial intelligence (AI) recognizes users’ situations and locations and dynamically organizes the windows they need. Users will be able to bring all their data together on a single screen to complete basic tasks, without having to switch between multiple apps. It is seen as an enhanced version of the current Now Nudge feature, which recognizes appointment details and locations in real time during message conversations and suggests saving the information or making reservations.

There is also considerable speculation about a possible name change, with Samsung reportedly considering “Galaxy OS” instead of One UI. The move is seen as a branding strategy to establish a distinct Galaxy ecosystem identity, much like Apple’s “iOS.”

Charging for Galaxy AI features is also being discussed again. When Samsung Electronics first introduced “Galaxy AI” with the Galaxy S24 series in early 2024, it included a statement at the bottom of the product descriptions on its official website saying, “Galaxy AI features will be provided free of charge through the end of 2025.” After users voiced their opposition, Samsung revised the statement to say the features would be free through the end of 2026. It added, however, that separate terms may apply to third-party AI features.

Industry watchers expect a subscription-based paid business model, particularly for high-performance AI features, as One UI 10 is expected to launch after the free period ends. Apple is also reportedly preparing to charge for its “Siri AI” service through a daily usage-limit pricing plan that would bill users with heavier usage to cover the additional costs of the service.

However, forecasts differ on when One UI 10 will be released. Well-known IT tipster Ice Universe and others expect the new software to be introduced first on Samsung’s next-generation foldable lineup, the “Galaxy Z Fold9” and “Galaxy Z Flip9.” By contrast, GSMArena expects that Samsung may not be able to meet the schedule next year and could plan the official update to coincide with the launch of the “Galaxy S29” after 2028, marking the 10th anniversary of One UI. A Samsung Electronics official said, “We cannot officially confirm development scenarios for software that has not been released.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.