Samsung’s new Android experience is available to even more people than before, this time including entry-level Galaxy phones getting an early sneak peek.
However, before you dive into this new update, there’s something you might want to consider first.
Samsung’s One UI 8.5 update, built on Android, is now expanding beyond its latest flagship lineup. While it first rolled out on premium devices like the Galaxy S26, S25 series and foldables, the update is now reaching older and more affordable phones.
This includes the Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy Z Fold5, Galaxy Z Flip5, and even the Galaxy A36 5G, marking the first time Samsung has extended early access software to its budget A-series lineup.
For users, this means access to new features and improvements without needing to upgrade to a flagship device.
Samsung One UI 8.5 Availability
Now, let’s talk about how significant these developments are. The updates have not yet been released publicly; at this time, they are only available as beta via the Samsung Beta Program.
This means that all users must manually register for and download the updates via the Samsung Members App.
Beta software is used as a testing ground for new products, allowing end users to use the software before it is officially released and also allowing the company, Samsung, to identify and rectify any issues with the software before it becomes mainstream.
So to summarise: beta software enables users to be first to test out new technology, but may also result in users finding issues with that same technology, thereby assisting the company to make the product “stable” and issue-free before the general release of that same technology to the public.
How Users Can Get Access
If your device supports it, joining the beta is straightforward. Open the Samsung Members app, sign in, and look for the One UI 8.5 Beta banner. From there, you can register and download the update through your phone’s software settings.
If the option doesn’t appear, it likely means your device, region, or the beta slots are not available yet.
What’s New in One UI 8.5
Samsung is focusing on making everyday tasks faster and smarter.
The updated Photo Assist tool allows users to edit images more freely without saving multiple versions. You can experiment and go back to earlier edits anytime, which makes it easier to fine-tune photos.
Quick Share is also getting smarter. It can now recognise faces in your photos and suggest sharing them directly with the right contacts, cutting down extra steps.
Another key upgrade is Storage Share, which allows seamless access to files across Galaxy phones, tablets, PCs, and even smart TVs. You can browse and transfer files between devices almost like they’re all part of one system.
This update represents a major change for regular consumers because Samsung has now opened up its beta program to customers who do not own high-end devices, instead of only allowing those who have purchased premium devices an opportunity to experience new software capabilities before the general public release.
The downside? You either need to wait for the official stable release with no bugs or issues, or you join the beta and deal with some glitches in return for being among the first to receive this new Android experience.
Regardless of how you look at it, Samsung’s recent move indicates they are trying to create an overall connected environment that is more accessible to Everyone with a connection, thus increasing competition within all price ranges and groups.
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