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The Galaxy ecosystem is widening access to Samsung’s newest interface. Reported on 13/04/2026, the company has opened the One UI 8.5 beta program to a fresh batch of devices, bringing many of the latest features to models that launched months or even years ago. This move continues Samsung’s trend of offering advanced software capabilities to a broader base of users, and it gives owners of selected phones an early look at changes originally introduced with the Galaxy S26 series. Early adopters should expect a preview experience rather than a final product, so understanding how to join and what to expect will help avoid surprises.
The update is notable because it includes some of Samsung’s most popular midrange and foldable phones. By inviting these models into testing, Samsung aims to refine the build before a wider rollout. If you value having the newest interface features and don’t mind occasional instability, the One UI 8.5 beta is an appealing option. However, users who need rock-solid performance for daily work or mission-critical tasks may prefer to wait for the stable release instead of enrolling in the trial.
Devices now enrolled in the beta
The latest phase covers a clear list of models: the Galaxy A55, Galaxy A35, Galaxy S23 FE, Galaxy Z Fold 5, and Galaxy Z Flip 5. These handsets join the roster of devices already participating in the test cycle and mean that Samsung has now touched most of its mainstream lineup with the new software. Inclusion of both midrange devices like the A35 and flagship foldables such as the Fold 5 highlights Samsung’s push to distribute select Galaxy AI and interface enhancements beyond just its newest hardware. The company has been gradually backporting features so more owners can evaluate them ahead of the public release.
Regions where the beta is live
At the time of reporting the update is active in South Korea and India, with plans to expand to additional markets including the US, Germany, and the UK. Users in live locations can enroll immediately, while others should look for the program to appear in the coming days or weeks. Regional availability affects not only enrollment but also which specific Galaxy AI functions and services are enabled, since legal, carrier, and localization factors influence feature rollout. If you travel frequently, bear in mind that moving between countries can change what the beta offers on the same device.
How to join and install the beta
Enrolling in the test is straightforward: open the Samsung Members app on an eligible phone and locate the official banner that promotes the One UI 8.5 beta program. Tap the banner to sign up, then follow the prompts. Once registered, update the device by navigating to Settings > Software update > Download and install. Downloading the preview places the beta build onto your handset so you can try new features early. Remember to back up important data beforehand; beta firmware can occasionally cause unexpected behavior that might require a rollback.
Tips and safeguards for beta participants
Because a beta is pre-release software, testers should be prepared for glitches, battery variability, and occasional app incompatibilities. Provide feedback via the Samsung Members feedback channels to help engineers improve stability. If you depend on your phone for work, consider using a spare device for testing rather than your daily driver. Keeping the phone’s data backed up and noting which features are experimental will make any necessary restoration or troubleshooting easier and less stressful.
What’s changing and when the stable build arrives
One UI 8.5 introduces a handful of headline features and smaller refinements. Among the most talked-about additions is an AirDrop-like AirDrop-like feature for sharing files with iPhone users, refreshed design elements that tidy the interface, and new navigation settings intended to reduce friction when moving between apps. Samsung is also bringing selected Galaxy AI capabilities to older models, though hardware and region will limit which AI features appear on which phones. Not every device will receive every enhancement, so the experience varies by model.
Samsung expects to push a stable release at the end of this month, with the Galaxy S25 family slated to be first in line to receive the finalized build. For the phones currently in the beta program, timelines may be longer; Samsung has indicated some enrolled models might only see the stable update toward the end of May or in early June. Those dates are approximate and subject to change as testing progresses, but they provide a useful window for users deciding whether to join the beta or wait for the polished release.