Last updated: May 12th, 2026 at 14:00 UTC+02:00
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The first beta rolls out within days.
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Max Jambor / SamMobile
Samsung today made a surprise reveal about its next major firmware update. The company has announced the One UI 9.0 beta program.
Much like previous iterations, the beta program will only be available to users in select markets. Only the Galaxy S26 series gets it now, but it's likely we'll see the beta being expanded to other devices in the near future.
Galaxy S26 device owners in South Korea, Poland, Germany, the United Kingdom, the United States, and India will be able to join the One UI 9.0 beta program starting this week. Those who are interested may join the program through the Samsung Members app.
The Android 17-based One UI 9 brings a variety of new features, including improved creative tools, enhanced customization options, and more powerful AI features. Samsung has updated Quick Panel in One UI 9 to provide more control over its layout, by enabling users to independently adjust brightness, bound, and media player controls.
One UI 9 brings robust protection against suspicious apps, improving early detection of high-risk apps and even recommending deletion through security policy updates.
A wide range of Galaxy devices from across the entire lineup are eligible for the One UI 9 update. By launching the One UI 9 beta program now, Samsung is giving itself ample time to irk out any bugs before the public release.
The One UI 9 public release will take place in the second half of the year, likely after the new foldable phones are launched in the next couple of months. Those will be the first devices to offer the full One UI 9 experience that includes new Galaxy AI features.
Adnan Farooqui is a long-term writer at SamMobile. Based in Pakistan, his interests include technology, finance, Swiss watches and Formula 1. His tendency to write long posts betrays his inclination to being a man of few words.
