Samsung has introduced major upgrades to its Secure Folder feature as part of the One UI 8 beta, adding stronger biometric authentication requirements and expanded privacy protections for Galaxy users. The enhancements are rolling out initially to Galaxy S25 devices and are expected to reach other models as the update progresses.
Separate Biometric Access and New Privacy Controls
The most notable change is the requirement for users to register fingerprints separately for Secure Folder access. In previous versions, any fingerprint registered at the device level could be used to unlock Secure Folder. Now, users must specifically enroll biometric credentials for the secure space, preventing shared device users, such as family members, from inadvertently accessing protected content. The change builds on Samsung’s long-running investment in biometric security.
Samsung has also added a new “Hide Secure Folder” option in Quick Settings. When activated, this acts as a kill switch: it removes the folder’s icon from the interface, encrypts and disables all contents, and silences notifications from apps stored inside. This provides users with a discreet way to instantly conceal private files, apps, and communications.
Another improvement allows users to hide original app icons from the main app drawer when moving apps into Secure Folder. This prevents duplication and helps maintain separation between personal and protected environments. Users can still run separate instances of supported apps inside and outside the secure space.
Addressing Past Vulnerabilities and Evolving Android Standards
These enhancements follow earlier concerns about privacy weaknesses in Secure Folder, where content could be exposed through the Android photo picker or app settings. One UI 8’s integration of Android’s Private Space API helps address these flaws by further isolating Secure Folder from the rest of the system. When the Secure Folder is hidden, its data is fully encrypted and inaccessible until reactivated.
The changes also bring Secure Folder functionality closer to Android’s new Private Space feature, offering improved parity between Samsung’s solution and native Android privacy controls. Both systems aim to provide users with better protection for sensitive content, especially on shared or multi-use devices.
For now, these features remain exclusive to the One UI 8 beta, which is limited to Galaxy S25 series devices. Samsung has not yet confirmed availability for older models or international regions. As with all beta software, some features may evolve before the final release.
Sources: Android Police, Android Authority, Tom’s Guide
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May 29, 2025 – by Ji-seo Kim
