These Samsung Phones Qualify for the Major Update
Samsung continues to test its next One UI update based on Android 16. Recent findings suggest that more devices are gaining early access to the firmware before the public release. Find out if your Galaxy phone will be among the first to test it.
Samsung has been testing One UI 8.5 for some time now and is expected to begin rolling out the final build to the public as early as next month if everything goes smoothly. While the update initially remained limited to the Galaxy S25 series and flagship foldables, the company has expanded the beta program to additional Galaxy models, according to prolific leaker Tarun Vats on X.
These Phones Will Get One UI 8.5 Beta Access
Surprisingly, the beta now includes the Galaxy S24 series, along with the Galaxy S25 FE (review) and Galaxy S24 FE models. This marks the first time Fan Edition (FE) devices have received early beta access. For many years, Samsung has restricted beta programs mostly to flagship models.
Screenshots of the supposed One UI 8.5 beta builds shared by the leaker confirm support for the Galaxy S25 FE and Galaxy S24 FE. This indicates Samsung is now encouraging testers on these mid-range devices to try the One UI 8.5 beta.
As with earlier One UI 8.5 builds, enrollment is done through the Samsung Members app. The program is currently available in the US, South Korea, India, Germany, Poland, the UK, and several other select EU countries. However, timing and available slots vary, so not everyone who wants to join may be able to test the beta firmware on their device.
What’s New in One UI 8.5?
One UI 8.5 first debuted with the Galaxy S26 and Galaxy S26 Ultra in February. Built on Android 16, it delivers another major software update featuring visual refinements, enhanced AI capabilities, and improved productivity and security tools.
On the visual front, Samsung is introducing more translucent elements across the UI and fully customizable quick settings panel. In terms of AI, Bixby gains smarter, more natural language understanding, and photo editing includes continuous AI-assisted features for seamless adjustments.
If Samsung follows its usual cadence, One UI 8.5 could arrive in stable form in April, just ahead of Google’s I/O event where Android 17 will take center stage.
Samsung has not yet announced the full list of eligible devices for One UI 8.5, but it is widely expected that all models currently running One UI 8.0 will receive the update.
Do you plan to install the One UI 8.5 beta on your device? Share your thoughts in the comments!
We mark partner links with this symbol. If you click on one of these links or buttons–or make a purchase through them–we may receive a small commission from the retailer. This doesn’t affect the price you pay, but it helps us keep nextpit free for everyone. Thanks for your support! Prices are based on the date of publication of this article and may be subject to change.