Samsung is gearing up to launch the highly anticipated One UI 8.5 beta program, with new leaks revealing specific rollout dates and an impressive array of features that will enhance the user experience for millions of Galaxy device owners.
Beta Program Rollout Schedule
According to reliable tipster Tarun Vats, Samsung has outlined a phased approach for the One UI 8.5 beta release. The first phase is scheduled to begin on December 8, marking the initial availability for testers. The program will then expand significantly with the second phase starting December 22, which will include key markets like India and Poland.
This development comes after earlier speculation suggested the beta might have launched this month. The updated timeline indicates Samsung is fine-tuning the software before making it available to beta testers. Recent sightings of a new One UI 8.5 beta build on Samsung's test servers for the Galaxy S25 series confirm the company's active development efforts.
Exciting New Features Coming
One UI 8.5 promises to deliver substantial improvements across multiple aspects of the user interface. Among the most notable additions are new Pro camera presets that can be shared with other users, creating a community-driven photography experience.
The update will introduce a Network Battery Saver function that intelligently limits network activity to extend standby time, addressing one of the most common concerns among smartphone users. Another practical addition is Priority Notifications, which will help users focus on what matters most.
Visual enhancements include 3D icons for applications and three new clock styles for the lockscreen. In a move toward better usability, Samsung is relocating the search bar in most first-party apps to the bottom of the screen for easier one-handed access.
Revamped Quick Settings Panel
Perhaps the most significant change coming with One UI 8.5 is the completely redesigned quick settings panel. This overhaul will provide users with unprecedented flexibility to rearrange individual settings according to their preferences and usage patterns.
The new customization options mean users can prioritize the settings they use most frequently, creating a more personalized and efficient interface. This addresses long-standing user requests for greater control over the quick settings layout.
Supported Device List
Samsung is expected to make One UI 8.5 available to all devices that were eligible for One UI 8. This inclusive approach means numerous Galaxy smartphones and tablets will receive the update.
The extensive compatibility list includes:
Galaxy S Series: Galaxy S25, S25 Plus, S25 Ultra, S25 Edge, S25 FE, S24, S24 Plus, S24 Ultra, S24 FE, S23, S23 Plus, S23 Ultra, S23 FE, S22, S22 Plus, S22 Ultra, and S21 FE
Galaxy Z Series: Galaxy Z Fold 7, Z Fold Special Edition, Z Fold 6, Z Fold 5, Z Fold 4, Z Flip 7, Z Flip 6, Z Flip 5, Z Flip 4, and Z Flip 7 FE
Galaxy A Series: A73, A56, A55, A54, A53, A36, A35, A34, A33, A25, A24, A15, A16, A17, and A06
Galaxy M Series: M56, M55s, M55, M54, M34, M53, M33, M17, M16, M15, and M06
Galaxy F Series: F55, F54, F34, F16, F15, and F06
Galaxy Tab Series: Tab S11, Tab Ultra, Tab S10 Plus, Tab S10 Ultra, Tab S10 FE, Tab S10 FE Plus, Tab S9, Tab S9 Plus, Tab S9 Ultra, Tab S9 FE, Tab S9 FE Plus, Tab S8, Tab S8 Plus, Tab S8 Ultra, Tab A9, Tab A9 Plus, and Tab S6 Lite (2024)
The public release of One UI 8.5 is anticipated to coincide with the launch of the Galaxy S26 series next year, following the successful completion of the beta testing phase. This timeline gives Samsung several months to refine the software based on user feedback before the stable release.
