Samsung fires up one ui 8.5 rollout across massive device list

Samsung is accelerating the rollout of its One UI 8.5 update, based on Android 16, across a wide range of devices this April 2026. After starting as a privileged few, the beta testing has expanded to include foldables, the A series, and now more devices are joining the test.

One ui 8.5 beta expanding to more devices

The beta program, launched officially for the Galaxy S25 series on December 8, has entered a massive expansion phase. According to the latest data, Samsung plans to deploy the stable version starting in the second quarter of 2026, which would put the final release between May and June for Spanish and European users.

Originally a small group test, the beta has grown into a large-scale rollout. Samsung is using the public beta to detect errors and optimize the visual interface, which hints at a redesign for sections like the quick settings panel and a more natural integration of AI.

Devices currently in the one ui 8.5 beta testing

The following devices have already gained access or are soon to receive the One UI 8.5 public beta:

Galaxy S25 series: standard, Plus, Ultra, and the recently added S25 FE.

Galaxy S24 series: S24, S24+, S24 Ultra, and S24 FE have joined the testing along with the S24 FE.

Foldables: the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, including the FE variant, were among the first to test new multitasking features.

Foldables from 2025: the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 have also joined the program this month.

Tablets: the Galaxy Tab S11 and Tab S11 Ultra are verifying the interface adaptation on large screens.

More devices get alpha access

Beyond the public beta, Samsung's servers offer more firmwares with One UI 8.5 Alpha versions. These are closed tests preparing the ground for devices that won't receive the beta publicly but will still get the final Samsung customization update. Here's the list of compatible devices:

Galaxy Z and S prior series: Galaxy Z TriFold, Galaxy Z Fold 5, Galaxy Z Fold 4, Galaxy S25 Edge, Galaxy S23, Galaxy S22, Galaxy A56, A55, A54, and A53.

Galaxy A series: A36, A35, A34, A33, A26, A25, A24, A17 (LTE and 5G), A16, A15, A07, and A06.

Galaxy Tab series: Tab S10+, Tab S10 Ultra, Tab S9 (standard, Plus, Ultra, FE, and FE+), Tab S8 (standard, Plus, and Ultra), Tab A11+, Tab A9, and the rugged Tab Active 5.

Galaxy M and F series: M17, M07, M56, M36, M16, M55/M55s, M35, M15, M05, M54, F17, F07, F56, F05, F54, and F34.

What's new in one ui 8.5

This version is no simple maintenance patch. Based on Android 16 QPR2, One UI 8.5 introduces a much cleaner visual language. One of the most talked-about features is the application of a dynamic blur effect throughout the interface, creating a sense of depth and elegance reminiscent of desktop operating systems.

Additionally, native Samsung apps have been redesigned for greater intuitiveness. Artificial intelligence is now more proactive (Galaxy AI), suggesting actions based on usage context without being intrusive. System stability has been the focus of recent weeks, with the goal of ensuring that even modest-tier devices like the A or M series maintain fluid performance.

In essence, Samsung's strategy for 2026 seems clear: democratize the latest software features as quickly as possible. Although the Galaxy S26 series already ships with this version out of the box, the fact that devices with several years under their belt, like the S22 or A53, are already on the testing lists for One UI 8.5 is excellent news for device longevity.