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Samsung expands tests of the One UI 8.5 interface to several Galaxy cell phones before launch

One Ui
Photo: One Ui - foto: TY Lim / Shutterstock.com

Samsung has intensified the evaluation process of the One UI 8.5 interface for a new range of smartphones and tablets. The software is based on the Android 16 architecture. The South Korean manufacturer has started distributing test versions to identify operational flaws and adjust the performance of the operating system. Selected Usuários already report receipt of installation packages. The measure prepares the ground for the definitive update of the devices.

The company’s schedule establishes the official launch for the second quarter of 2026. Duas work fronts operate simultaneously at this time. The Beta Público program serves registered consumers in specific regions, while the Alpha phase takes place internally with brand engineers. The strategy allows you to collect real usage data and apply fixes before mass release.

Programas evaluation divides access between public and developers

Building One UI 8.5 requires rigorous validation due to integration with new features in Android 16. Samsung targets significant features to ensure ecosystem stability. The Beta Público program began on December 8th with an initial focus on the Galaxy S25 line. Desde then, the company released access to other families of devices. The central objective is to align the brand’s visual identity with the Google guidelines.

The internal testing environment, called Alpha, operates with a different dynamic. Developers install the software on devices that have not yet reached the market and on models from past generations. Essa comprehensive approach avoids hardware incompatibility issues. The technical team monitors battery consumption, RAM memory management and the fluidity of screen transitions. The reports generated at this stage define the pace of progress for the next phases.

Aparelhos selected for phase Beta Pública

The expansion of Beta Público demonstrates the advancement of interface development. Diferentes compilation stages run on the brand’s smartphones at the moment. The continuous update cycle adapts the system to the technical specifications of each product. The active participation of owners speeds up the identification of specific errors.

The list of devices compatible with the trial version ranges from the most recent releases to intermediate cell phones. The manufacturer organizes distribution in batches. Users need to register on the company’s official app to request the download. Abaixo are the Galaxy models that already participate in the Beta Público program:

  • Galaxy S25 (S25, S25 Plus, S25 Ultra) – on Beta 9
  • Galaxy S25 FE – on Beta 2
  • Galaxy S24 (S24, S24 Plus, S24 Ultra) – in Beta 2
  • Galaxy S24 FE – on Beta 2
  • Galaxy S23 (S23, S23 Plus, S23 Ultra) – in Beta 1
  • Galaxy S23 FE – on Beta 1
  • Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 (including FE) – on Beta 3
  • Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6 – in Beta 2
  • Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Flip 5 – in Beta 1
  • Galaxy Tab S11 and Tab S11 Ultra – in Beta 2
  • Galaxy A36 – on Beta 1
  • Galaxy A35 and A55 – on Beta 1

The presence of models such as the Galaxy A35 and Galaxy A55 indicates a democratization of access to tests. Samsung used to only prioritize the premium line in the first few weeks of the trial. The change in posture allows us to collect information about the behavior of the software on less powerful processors.

Fase Alpha encompasses the brand’s old lines and prototypes

The scope of the Alpha program exceeds the number of devices listed in Beta Público. Fundamental software validation occurs in this closed infrastructure. The internal list includes the Galaxy Z TriFold, as well as older foldables such as the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and the Galaxy Z Flip 4. The Galaxy S22 series (S22, S22 Plus, S22 Ultra) also integrates the primary test circuit. The unreleased Galaxy S25 Edge appears in the company’s development records.

The Galaxy A family has a massive representation in the manufacturer’s laboratories. Engenheiros evaluate the system on Galaxy A17 LTE/5G, A07, A56, A26, A16 LTE/5G and A06. Aparelhos from previous years, such as Galaxy A25, A15 LTE/5G, A54, A34, A24, A53 and A33, run preliminary builds of One UI 8.5. Verification ensures that the incoming consumer base receives an optimized update.

The tablet segment and M/F series complete the Alpha test framework. The company works with the Galaxy Tab S10+, Tab S10 Ultra, the entire Tab S9 and Tab S8 series. Modelos like Tab S10 FE, Tab S9 FE, Tab A9, Tab A11+ and Tab Active 5 are part of the process. In the line of smartphones focused on cost-benefit, the tests include the M17/F17, M07/F07, M56/F56, M36, M16, M55/M55s, M35, M15, M05/F05, M54/F54, M34/F34 and M53.

Mudanças visuals include system depth effects

The aesthetic redesign represents one of the pillars of One UI 8.5. The interface adopts a modernized design to facilitate daily navigation. Developers have applied blur effects to multiple layers of the operating system. The technique generates a feeling of depth when opening folders or accessing the notifications panel. Janelas pop-up also display the new visual pattern.

The clarity in distinguishing graphic elements guided the layout changes. Samsung implemented dynamic adjustments to the brand’s native applications. The modifications optimize the usability of tools frequently accessed by device owners. The source code has received improvements to reduce the opening time of standard programs.

Cronograma aims for general release in the second quarter

The volume of devices involved in the Alpha and Beta phases indicates a mature programming stage. Q2 2026 remains the official window for the start of global distribution. The manufacturer uses the data currently collected to polish the animations and fix security flaws. The engineering department compiles new versions weekly for active testers.

The release of the stable version will occur gradually. The Galaxy S25 line smartphones should top the list for receiving the definitive update. The shipping schedule will depend on the final approval of the data packages by telephone operators and the company’s regional divisions. The company’s server infrastructure is already undergoing adjustments to support the demand for simultaneous downloads.