One UI 8.5 beta may arrive soon for Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7
What you need to know
- Samsung is apparently preparing the One UI 8.5 beta for the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7, with the internal test firmware already shown.
- The company has reportedly set up a public beta page, which is a standard step before opening public beta registration.
- The beta could arrive in mid-March, with a stable rollout likely in April.
Samsung seems to be preparing One UI 8.5 beta for their new foldable phones.
Samsung released the stable One UI 8.5, built on Android 16 QPR2, for the Galaxy S26 series earlier this year. Now, it looks like the company is preparing to bring this update to more devices beyond the S26 and S25 lineups, starting with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7.
The internal beta firmware for both devices has already appeared, which usually happens just before Samsung starts public beta testing. A new rumor also now claims that the company has stopped beta versions of these devices on its Community forum, as shared by Mohammed Khatri on X (via SamMobile).
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General beta release strategy
This method is typical for Samsung. The company usually starts its beta program with the latest flagship Galaxy S, and then expands to other premium devices.
Android Central Take
I appreciate that Samsung quickly updates its folders with new software. These phones are already pushing mobile hardware, so new software is important too.
That’s exactly what seems to be happening here. The Galaxy S25 series is currently running One UI 8.5 beta, while the Galaxy S26 comes with a stable version right out of the box. With those devices covered, it makes sense for Samsung to bring the test to its foldable lineup.
Samsung often creates public beta pages for these test builds just before opening beta sign-ups for the Samsung member app.
When will the beta come?
Judging by Samsung’s usual server activity and schedule, the Fold 7 and Flip 7 beta could begin in mid-March if the company follows its usual timeline.
That could push the One UI 8.5 stable release closer to April in these folders instead of the early March window that some users were expecting. For now, Samsung seems to be continuing internal testing while releasing regular security patches.
Both folders came out in July 2025 with One UI 8 on Android 16, so One UI 8.5 will be their first major software update since launch.
One UI 8.5 isn’t a full Android upgrade, but it adds some useful changes to improve the experience. Notable updates include a customizable Quick Panel, so users can easily move or remove toggles and widgets, as well as interface updates to Samsung apps.
Android Central Take
When I use the Z Fold 7, I want it to feel like a powerful computer in my pocket, not a device waiting for the remaining months of the S series. By moving One UI 8.5 into beta so quickly, Samsung is showing that if you pay more for a wrap, you get the best software support in the Android world.
There are also improvements to one-handed operation, more customization options with updated Good Lock modules, and new AI tools to make everyday tasks easier.
Samsung also appears to be testing some foldable improvements. An early build suggests that the Flip 7’s display cover may include a volume down button when answering calls, which helps prevent the loud speaker from blasting out in public.
Samsung has not officially announced the beta of the Fold 7 and Flip 7 yet. However, test firmware and beta setups suggest that the release is coming soon.
