Samsung’s One UI 8.5 public beta launches December 8 in select markets, bringing Android 16 QPR2 enhancements to recent Galaxy flagships after weeks of internal testing.
Beta Rollout Timeline
Multiple tipsters agree on phased rollout:
- Phase 1 – December 8: US, UK, South Korea, Germany
- Phase 2 – December 22: India, Poland added; Beta 2 for Phase 1 markets
- Beta 3 – Early January: Final polishing before stable release
Galaxy S25 series leads eligibility, with S24/S23 expected soon after.
Strategic Timing
Early beta aligns with Galaxy S26 launch for day-one stability on new hardware. Samsung’s seven-year update promise demands rock-solid releases across vast device matrix.
Phased testing catches edge cases faster, ensuring app compatibility and minimizing bricking risks for 20% global market share.
Initial Eligible Devices
Expect Galaxy S25 lineup first, followed by:
- Galaxy S24 series (all models including FE)
- Galaxy S23 series
- Select Z Fold/Flip models
- Limited mid-range later
Register via Samsung Members app—slots fill quickly.
Expected Features
One UI 8.5 on Android 16 QPR2 delivers:
- Dark mode icons overhaul
- Galaxy AI upgrades (Priority Notifications, context nudges)
- Camera processing refinements
- Battery/network optimizations
- Enhanced Modes and Routines automation
Participation Tips
Backup data via Samsung Cloud before enrolling—beta software risks battery drain, banking app issues, and camera glitches. Use secondary device if possible.
Stable release expected alongside Galaxy S26 early 2026, with wider rollout following.
