As technology continues to evolve, so does the need for enhanced privacy and security features on our devices. Samsung's Secure Folder, a feature that allows users to hide apps and files from unauthorized access, has been found to have certain vulnerabilities. Currently, it relies heavily on Android's Work profile, inadvertently exposing apps and media outside of its intended confines. However, a recent leak indicates that with the introduction of One UI 8, Samsung may adopt Android's Private Space API to address these shortcomings. This update promises not only to rectify existing flaws but also ensure that hidden apps will cease functioning and sending notifications when concealed.

At present, Samsung's Secure Folder employs a distinct profile known as the Work profile, separate from the default personal one. Although this setup containerizes data, specific components such as the Android photo picker and Permission Controller can still view the contents within this profile under certain circumstances. These situations inadvertently lead to the exposure of private apps and photos.

In contrast, Google introduced the Private Space feature with Android 15, which operates differently. The Private Space utilizes a unique "Private" user profile that the Android photo picker and Permission Controller handle separately. When locked, this profile remains hidden from various system interfaces, including the photo picker and Permission Controller.

Samsung appears poised to follow suit by adopting the Private Space approach for its Secure Folder in One UI 8. According to DevOfIpos on X, the upcoming version of Secure Folder will utilize the Private Space API instead of relying on the Work profile. Consequently, when users choose to hide their Secure Folder, the apps contained within will no longer function or send notifications, thereby mitigating instances where hidden apps might unintentionally reveal stored media through notifications.

This transition, however, introduces an additional layer of complexity when accessing content stored in the Secure Folder. Despite this minor inconvenience, it represents a significant step forward in safeguarding users' private information. While there is currently no official announcement regarding the release date of One UI 8, anticipation builds with the imminent stable release of Android 16. Nonetheless, given the delayed rollout of One UI 7, expectations remain cautiously tempered.

With the adoption of the Private Space API in One UI 8, Samsung aims to bolster the privacy capabilities of its Secure Folder feature. By ensuring that hidden apps do not operate or notify users while concealed, the company addresses critical vulnerabilities. This development underscores Samsung's commitment to enhancing user privacy and aligning its offerings with contemporary standards set by competitors like Google.