One UI 8.5 beta program could begin on this date, mark your calendars!

Samsung couldn’t kick off the One UI 8.5 beta program for the Galaxy S25 series in November as planned, reportedly because the Galaxy S26 launch was pushed back. But if a new rumor is accurate, the wait might soon be over: multiple sources on X claim the beta will begin on December 8.

Every One UI beta program is divided into phases, and this time the first phase will reportedly roll out in the US, UK, Korea, and Germany. The second phase is said to begin on December 22, which is when Samsung will supposedly expand the beta program to India and Poland and also release the second beta update for phase-one markets.

According to Tarun Vats, Samsung could release at least three beta builds, with the third expected sometime in the first week of January. However, as with any beta software, there’s always a chance the actual timeline may differ.

Last month, early One UI 8.5 firmware for the Galaxy S25 Ultra leaked online, and more recently, what could be the first beta build intended for the public surfaced as well. At least two Galaxy Z Fold 7 One UI 8.5 firmware builds have also leaked, though it’s still unclear which devices will ultimately be included in the beta program.

As we get closer to the rumored kick-off date, we should start learning more about Samsung’s rollout plans. For now, nothing is set in stone, but with leaked firmware popping up and multiple sources pointing to an imminent release, the wait for the One UI 8.5 beta program seems to be almost over at last.

One UI 8.5 will introduce a slew of visual refinements along with new features, including a few AI-powered additions. Click here for a full breakdown of what’s coming, and be sure to check out our YouTube channel for more One UI 8.5 content.