Samsung has formally introduced the One UI 9 Beta program, providing Galaxy S26 users with initial access to features of Android 17. One UI 9 enhances customization options in Samsung Notes, incorporating decorative tapes and additional pen styles. The beta program is being launched first in Germany, India, Korea, Poland, the UK, and the U.S. via the Samsung Members app.
After extensive anticipation, Samsung is at last revealing its next significant software phase, and it seems the wait for Android 17 is in its final stages.
Samsung has proclaimed the commencement of the One UI 9 Beta program, and if you own a Galaxy S26, you are at the forefront of experiencing how Samsung is reimagining the mobile experience this year.
While most users are still holding out for stable One UI 8.5 updates, Samsung is already beta testing the upcoming major release. And it’s quite transparent about the new features.
Samsung Notes now includes decorative tapes and additional pen line options. The Contacts app now connects directly to Creative Studio, allowing you to create custom profile cards without navigating between apps. However, Creative Studio still requires a separate installation and Samsung Account login, but once configured, it operates smoothly.
Accelerated beta releases and earlier testing are expected to result in fewer delays and quicker access to Android 17 features. Nonetheless, while launching betas early appears advantageous on paper, it will be meaningless if the company reverts to delayed regional rollouts and incomplete feature releases that have previously left users dissatisfied. Galaxy owners desire updates that are prompt, function properly, and don’t feel as if they have been stuck in software limbo for months while Google and Pixel users have already advanced to the next iteration.
The Quick Panel receives a much-needed update. Brightness, sound, and the media player are now independently adjustable, featuring more size choices.
For accessibility, adjustable mouse key speed is provided for enhanced cursor movement, alongside a combined TalkBack package that integrates what Google and Samsung previously offered separately. The new Text Spotlight feature enlarges selected text in a floating window — a minor adjustment that significantly simplifies reading on a phone.
Regarding security, One UI 9 actively prevents high-risk applications. When something suspicious is identified, it alerts you, obstructs execution and installation, and suggests deletion.
The beta program launches this week in Germany, India, Korea, Poland, the UK, and the U.S. Simply open the Samsung Members app and register for the beta program.
That said, sign-ups aren’t yet active at the time of writing, and the beta program isn’t currently visible on the eligible Galaxy S26 devices we’ve inspected. But we will monitor for updates.