One of the most exciting software periods of the year for Samsung users has officially begun. While the South Korean tech giant typically limits its minor One UI beta programs to high-end foldable devices, the company is breaking tradition with the One UI 8.5 release.
Built on the Android 16 QPR2 architecture, One UI 8.5 promises a suite of new features, refined animations, and top-tier optimizations. In a surprising move, the testing program has been expanded beyond flagship models to include mid-range Galaxy A series devices, demonstrating Samsung’s confidence in its software distribution speed.
Breaking Tradition: A Wider Reach
In previous years, accessing preview builds on non-flagship hardware was nearly impossible. By opening the beta to a broader range of hardware, Samsung aims to gather diverse user feedback to ensure the final stable release is as polished as possible. If you enjoy being an early adopter, check the list below to see if your device is ready for this new era.
Full List of Devices in the One UI 8.5 Beta Program
The current list is extensive, and Samsung is expected to add more models in the coming weeks. The currently confirmed Galaxy devices are:
- Galaxy S25 Series: Galaxy S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, S25 FE
- Galaxy S24 Series: Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra, S24 FE
- Galaxy S23 Series: Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra
- Galaxy Z Foldable Series: Galaxy Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7, Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6, Z Fold 5, Z Flip 5
- Galaxy A Series: Galaxy A36
How to Join the Beta Program
The One UI 8.5 beta program is currently active in six key markets: India, South Korea, Germany, Poland, the USA, and the UK. If you are in one of these regions and own a supported device, follow these steps to participate. Note: Beta versions may contain bugs; always back up your data before proceeding.
- Open the Samsung Members app on your device.
- Log in with your Samsung account.
- Look for the “One UI Beta Program” banner on the home screen.
- Tap the banner and accept the registration terms.
- Once registered, navigate to Settings > Software Update > Download and Install to receive the beta build.
With One UI 8.5 arriving just as major titles like Forza Horizon 6 and GTA 6 are being discussed for late 2026, it’s clear that mobile and console ecosystems are evolving rapidly. As an academic specializing in communications and sociology, do you think these increasingly frequent software updates enhance our “uses and gratifications” of technology, or do they contribute to a sense of digital burnout? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Since you track Samsung and Xiaomi releases closely, would you like me to research the leaked AI-driven multitasking features specific to the Z Fold 7 on One UI 8.5, or should I look for a comparison with Xiaomi’s latest HyperOS 3 update? Let me know!
