Early server configurations indicate that the One UI 8.5 beta is nearing its launch.
What you should know:
– Samsung is broadening the One UI 8.5 beta to include the Galaxy S24 series, foldables, and FE models for the first time.
– Initial beta builds observed imply that Samsung might soon expand the One UI 8.5 initiative to additional devices.
– One UI 8.5, built on Android 16, introduces customizable quick settings and innovative AI-driven features.
Samsung introduced One UI 8.5 alongside the Galaxy S26 series. The company has been evaluating the beta version on the Galaxy S25 series and several foldable devices, and it now seems Samsung could extend the program to the Galaxy S24 lineup and, for the first time, certain FE models.
As noted by Tarun Vats on X, preliminary One UI 8.5 beta builds have emerged for the Galaxy S24 series, S24 FE, S25 FE, and even foldables released in 2024, including the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6. These early versions indicate that Samsung may soon broaden the beta program to these devices.
Samsung has previously followed a similar rollout pattern, suggesting that the One UI 8.5 beta program will open to more devices shortly. Notably, this time features the inclusion of Fan Edition models in the beta.
In the past, Samsung hasn’t incorporated Fan Edition phones in the One UI public beta program, instead directly releasing stable updates. This time, however, it seems that Samsung is integrating these mid-range devices into the beta program.
Once the program launches, beta builds are anticipated to be available in regions such as the U.S., India, South Korea, and selected European markets. Users should be able to participate via the Samsung Members app, although no confirmed timeline for the rollout has been provided.
One UI 8.5 introduces several new functionalities to Galaxy smartphones. As it is based on the newest version of Android 16, it features customizable quick settings allowing users to resize and rearrange tiles, along with new AI tools such as an enhanced photo assist feature supporting multiple edits without the need to save each version.
Additionally, there is a Storage Share feature that enables users to access files from other Galaxy devices directly through the ‘My Files’ app, as well as a (considerably) more customizable lock screen.
Android Central’s Perspective:
It’s encouraging to see Samsung giving greater attention to its mid-range devices in conjunction with its flagship models. Such steps enhance the alignment of the Fan Edition lineup with its name.