Samsung continues the development of One UI 8.5, an intermediate version of the interface based on Android 16.
Internal tests were identified on company servers for several Galaxy tablets.
The expansion includes older models, demonstrating extended support for premium devices.
The public beta program remains limited to the Galaxy S25 series in select countries.
The stable version is expected to debut with the Galaxy S26 line in early 2026.
Models included in tests
The list of tablets with test builds of One UI 8.5 has grown in recent days.
- Galaxy Tab S11 series (including Ultra and Wi-Fi models).
- Galaxy Tab S10 Plus, Ultra and FE.
- Galaxy Tab S9, S9 Plus, Ultra and S9 FE.
- Galaxy Tab S8 series (standard, Plus and Ultra).
The addition of the Tab S8 lineup, launching in 2022, highlights Samsung’s commitment to long-term flagship upgrades.
These devices should receive features optimized for large screens, such as improved multitasking and integration with the Galaxy ecosystem.
Development progress
Internal testing indicates that One UI 8.5 is moving forward quickly.
Specific builds were detected, such as versions ending in EYL1 for Tab S8 and similar for other models.
While the public beta isn’t expected to extend to tablets in the near term, the stable version will come directly to them in 2026.
The update will bring improvements to the interface, AI tools and connectivity between devices, such as file and audio sharing.
List of tablets under test
Samsung prioritizes recent models, but extends support to previous generations.
The main ones included are:
- Tab S11 and S11 Ultra.
- Tab S10 complete series.
- Tab S9 series, including FE variants.
- Tab S8 series.
This approach ensures that premium tablet users maintain access to new features for longer.
Other devices, such as mid-range smartphones, are also gradually entering internal testing.
Extended support from Samsung
The company offers up to seven years of updates for recent flagship lines.
The presence of the Tab S8 in the tests reinforces this policy.
Newer tablets like the Tab S11 should receive the update soon after the stable release.
One UI 8.5 promises refinements in productivity, with a focus on DeX and native apps adapted to large screens.
Expectations for the rollout
The final version should reach 2026 flagships first.
Then the distribution extends to previous models, including the tablets listed.
Users can follow news through the Samsung Members app.
Active development suggests increasing stability in the coming weeks.
What’s expected in the update
One UI 8.5 introduces features like seamless AI photo editing.
There are improvements in battery management and security.
Greater integration between phones, tablets and PCs
Visual and performance optimizations for devices with wide screens.