Key Information

• Samsung is experimenting with a new “Private album” function in its Gallery application as part of One UI 8.
• The feature is currently concealed in the experimental “Labs” area and might not feature in the ultimate release.
• It provides a more straightforward alternative to Secure Folder, concentrating specifically on concealing photos and videos.

An Enhancement for Privacy with One UI 8

As the significance of digital privacy escalates, Samsung is making efforts to assist users in safeguarding their personal media more effectively. With the forthcoming One UI 8 update—based on Android 16—the technology leader is said to be rolling out a new “Private album” feature right within the Samsung Gallery app. This could revolutionize how users protect sensitive images and videos from unwanted attention, eliminating the need for the more complex Secure Folder.

Detected by X user @DalgleishGX, the Private album feature has appeared in a leaked beta version of One UI 8. It’s currently hidden in the “Labs” section—Samsung’s testing ground for features still under development. This indicates that the feature’s inclusion in the final rollout is not assured, but it presents an encouraging glimpse of future advancements.

The Importance of This: Streamlining Photo Privacy

Samsung already has Secure Folder, which serves as a comprehensive solution for securing apps, files, and media using biometric locks. However, many users find Secure Folder excessive when all they wish to do is conceal a few personal images. The upcoming Private album intends to fill that void, providing a simple, integrated method for managing photo and video privacy directly in the Gallery app.

As reported by SamMobile, the Private album might eventually utilize Android’s new Private Space API, which aims to keep sensitive content separate from the rest of the system. This would help ensure that hidden media does not inadvertently show up in other applications or cloud backups.

Potential Improvements for Secure Folder

Although the Private album is a favorable addition, Samsung is not moving away from Secure Folder. In reality, One UI 8 is expected to offer a significant enhancement to Secure Folder, streamlining its usage and boosting security. This might include better integration with Android’s privacy features and a more user-friendly interface.

For users requiring maximum security—like business professionals or those managing sensitive information—Secure Folder will still be the preferred choice. However, for everyday users, the Private album presents a simplified solution to prevent awkward photo incidents or unintentional sharing.

What Else Is Coming in One UI 8

Aside from privacy enhancements, One UI 8 is shaping up to be a substantial update. Leaks indicate it will feature:

• More intelligent app recommendations based on user behavior
• Enhanced battery optimization and management of background tasks
• AI-driven video summarization within Samsung Internet
• Improvements to the overall user interface for a more fluid experience

Samsung is anticipated to release the One UI 8 beta soon after the stabilization of Android 16, likely around June 2025. If the Private album is included, it could become one of the most discussed features in