Rumors suggest that the One UI 8.5 beta launch may extend beyond its anticipated November debut. The beta for Samsung’s One UI 8.5 concerning the Galaxy S25 series is probably postponed due to modifications in the Galaxy S26 lineup. The One UI 8.5 update is set to introduce AI notifications, revamped Quick Settings, and enhanced lock screen personalization. The postponement arises from Samsung abandoning plans to substitute the Galaxy S26 Plus with the S26 Edge model.
Samsung was initially thought to begin the first One UI 8.5 beta for the Galaxy S25 series in November, but it now seems that the beta initiative will be postponed because of alterations in the future Galaxy S26 series. Samsung has been diligently testing One UI 8.5 internally for several weeks. Recent information has disclosed various features expected for Galaxy smartphones, such as AI notifications, a completely customizable Quick Settings interface, enhancements to Modes and Routines, new options for the lock screen, and other additions.
The firm was earlier anticipated to launch the public beta program for the Galaxy S25 series during the latter part of November. This, however, no longer appears to be the situation. Trustworthy Samsung insider Tarun Vats revealed on X that the One UI 8.5 beta initiative is facing a delay. While Vats did not provide a specific date for the revised rollout, he noted that a November release “seems improbable now.”
The purported reason for the delay is linked to recent adjustments within the Galaxy S26 lineup. Samsung was believed to be reorganizing the lineup by rebranding the standard Galaxy S26 to the Galaxy S26 Pro and substituting the Galaxy S26 Plus with a sleeker Galaxy S26 Edge — considered the alleged successor to the Galaxy S25 Edge. The Galaxy S26 Ultra was expected to stay unchanged, resulting in three models instead of four.
Nevertheless, earlier this month, reports verified that Samsung abandoned plans to swap the Galaxy S26 Plus with the Edge version due to insufficient demand for the Galaxy S25 Edge. Now, recommencing development on the Galaxy S26 Plus just months ahead of launch seems to have disrupted the company’s timeline, which in turn appears to have postponed the One UI 8.5 beta as well.
Samsung had regained the momentum it lost during the sluggish rollout of One UI 7 with the prompt release of One UI 8 across multiple Galaxy devices, but this recent setback could affect the launch of One UI 8.5. It’s still unverified whether the beta will be delayed, leaving some room for optimism. However, if past experiences are any guide, a delay seems probable. We will monitor the situation closely and inform you as soon as the beta becomes available.
