Samsung Electronics has unveiled a comprehensive suite of security and privacy upgrades for its upcoming Galaxy smartphones. These enhancements will be introduced with the launch of One UI 8, Samsung’s latest software interface based on Android 16, and are designed to address the evolving landscape of mobile threats while supporting the company’s expanding portfolio of AI-powered features.
Advanced Security Architecture: Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP)
At the core of Samsung’s new security initiative is Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP). This innovative system-level architecture creates isolated, encrypted storage environments for each application, ensuring that sensitive user data is accessible only to the corresponding app. KEEP represents a significant advancement over Samsung’s existing Secure Folder feature by providing app-specific encryption and isolation. It also integrates seamlessly with Samsung’s Personal Data Engine (PDE), which enables on-device AI features such as Now Brief, Smart Suggestions, and Smart Gallery Search—all while safeguarding personal information with both KEEP and the Samsung Knox Vault hardware security platform.
Knox Matrix: Proactive Multi-Device Defense
Samsung is also expanding the capabilities of Knox Matrix, its multi-device security platform. The updated Knox Matrix will deliver more proactive and automated threat responses, including automatic sign-outs from Samsung Accounts across all connected devices if manipulation or identity forgery is detected. This measure is designed to immediately sever unauthorized access to cloud services and other devices, minimizing potential damage. Users will receive real-time alerts on all their Galaxy devices in the event of a detected incident, and Knox Matrix will now also remind users when security updates are overdue, promoting timely patch management.
Quantum-Resistant Secure Wi-Fi
Looking to the future, Samsung is introducing quantum-resistant encryption for Wi-Fi connectivity. This next-generation security measure aims to protect users against emerging threats, including those posed by quantum computing, ensuring that Galaxy devices remain secure in an increasingly complex threat environment.
Centralized Security and Privacy Alerts
One UI 8 will feature a new Alert Center within the Security and Privacy settings menu. This centralized hub will notify users of unusual activity or required actions, such as privacy alerts for apps accessing the camera, microphone, or location in the background, as well as notifications regarding harmful apps, missed updates, or account issues. The Alert Center will provide actionable guidance, enabling users to address security concerns quickly and effectively.
Ongoing Commitment to Security Updates
Samsung continues its commitment to device security with regular monthly, quarterly, and biannual security updates. The July 2025 security patch, for example, addresses at least 17 Samsung Vulnerabilities and Exposures (SVEs), including a high-severity semiconductor vulnerability (CVE-2025-47202). This ongoing patch management strategy ensures that Galaxy devices remain protected against the latest threats.
Enhanced User Experience with Smarter AI
Beyond security, One UI 8 will introduce smarter AI integration and user experience improvements. Features such as the Now Bar and Now Brief will offer proactive, context-aware suggestions, all secured by Samsung’s new privacy architecture. Users will also benefit from visual and usability enhancements, improved multitasking, and expanded customization options.
Major Security Features in One UI 8
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP) | App-specific encrypted storage, isolates sensitive data, supports on-device AI privacy |
| Knox Matrix Expansion | Automated sign-out on threat detection, cross-device alerts, update reminders |
| Quantum-Resistant Wi-Fi | Next-gen encryption to protect against future quantum threats |
| Alert Center | Real-time security and privacy notifications with actionable tips |
| Regular Security Updates | Monthly patches addressing critical vulnerabilities and exposures |
One UI 8 will debut on Samsung’s latest flagship devices, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, with a broader rollout planned for additional Galaxy models in the coming months
