Samsung began testing One UI 8.5 in early December 2025, opening the beta program exclusively to the Galaxy S25 series. Since then, several beta updates have been released, but access remains limited to Samsung’s newest flagship devices as of late January. This has prompted growing anticipation among Galaxy users waiting for the software to reach a wider range of phones.
While Samsung has not shared an official timeline, previous One UI beta rollouts offer useful clues about what to expect next.
Past Rollouts Suggest a Gradual Expansion
Samsung’s recent update cycles show a consistent pattern. With One UI 7, the beta debuted on the Galaxy S24 lineup in December 2024, but it took nearly three months before additional devices were included. The first expansion arrived in early March 2025, when the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 gained access.
A similar approach was used for One UI 8. The beta launched on the Galaxy S25 series in late May 2025 and expanded roughly two and a half months later. That second wave brought support to the Galaxy S24 family and Samsung’s seventh-generation foldables, followed later by older flagships and select mid-range models.
What This Means for One UI 8.5
If Samsung follows the same timeline, the One UI 8.5 beta is unlikely to reach additional devices immediately. The first expansion could happen around late February or March 2026, potentially aligning with or shortly after the debut of the Galaxy S26 series.
Based on past behaviour, the most likely candidates for the initial expansion include the Galaxy S24, S24+, and S24 Ultra, as well as the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7. These devices typically receive beta access soon after the latest flagship generation.
Support for older models, such as the Galaxy S23 series, is expected to follow later. Popular Galaxy A-series phones and some tablets may also be included eventually, though likely in fewer regions and later in the beta cycle.
Still No Official Word
At this point, Samsung has not confirmed any dates or device lists for expanding the One UI 8.5 beta. However, judging by the company’s recent update strategy, broader access may not be far off.
For Galaxy users outside the S25 lineup, patience will likely be required—but history suggests that more devices should join the One UI 8.5 beta within the next few months.
