The absence of Now Brief in Samsung’s latest software testing for the Galaxy S23 has raised eyebrows among users and analysts alike. The second beta release of One UI 8.0, based on Android 16, rolled out this week for the Galaxy S23 series. Despite hopes that this update would finally deliver Now Brief, the highly discussed feature remains missing, suggesting that the Galaxy S23 lineup may never receive it at all.
To understand why this matters, it’s worth noting that Samsung first introduced Now Brief with the Galaxy S25 series as a signature new feature. 
This tool was later extended to Galaxy S24 devices through the beta phase of One UI 8.0, giving users quick access to real-time summaries, AI-powered recommendations, and streamlined updates directly on their devices. Naturally, Galaxy S23 owners expected the same treatment once the beta program opened for their models earlier this month. However, both Beta 1 and now Beta 2 have skipped the feature entirely.
Historically, Samsung tends to unveil major new features either in the first or second beta cycle of a software update. If a function doesn’t show up in these early releases, the chances of it being added later are slim. This precedent makes it highly likely that Now Brief will remain exclusive to newer models, rather than being retrofitted into older flagships like the Galaxy S23.
The reasoning isn’t rooted in performance limits. The Galaxy S23 series is powered by capable hardware and advanced AI engines that can easily handle demanding software features. Instead, industry watchers believe this is a strategic choice. By keeping standout features such as Now Brief exclusive to its latest phones, Samsung strengthens the incentive for users to upgrade rather than holding onto older hardware.
This approach isn’t unique to Samsung. Many smartphone makers deliberately gate certain innovations behind new hardware to maintain competitive differentiation. Still, it’s understandable that Galaxy S23 users feel left out, especially since their phones remain powerful and fully supported devices. On the upside, One UI 8.0 does bring a wide range of enhancements to the S23, including tighter security measures, productivity boosts, improved multitasking, and accessibility improvements that make daily use smoother and more enjoyable.
Ultimately, while Now Brief may not arrive for the Galaxy S23, Samsung is clearly continuing to refine the user experience for existing devices. Owners of the S23 can still look forward to a polished, secure, and feature-rich update – just without one of the headlining additions of the Galaxy S25 era.
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classic samsung move, keep features locked to new phones