Full Breakdown
Samsung's One UI 8.5 Beta Rollout Faces Delays Amid Feature Criticism
4/12/2026, 11:57:53 PM
Overview of the One UI 8.5 Beta Rollout
Samsung has initiated the rollout of the One UI 8.5 beta for several devices, including the Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy S24 lineup, and Galaxy S25 series. The beta program has expanded to include models such as the Galaxy A36 and Galaxy S23 FE, with the latter appearing on test servers for the first time. The rollout primarily focuses on integrating the April 2026 security patch, which addresses 47 identified security vulnerabilities across various device series, including the S, Z, and A series.
Recent Developments in the Beta Program
As of April 12, 2026, the Galaxy S25 series received its eighth beta update, introducing AirDrop support via Quick Share, allowing file transfers between Samsung devices and iPhones. The Galaxy S24 series also received its second beta update, which includes similar AirDrop functionality. However, the rollout has faced delays, particularly for the Galaxy S25 series, with indications that a ninth beta may not be the final version, and a tenth beta could be forthcoming.
Reasons for the Delay
The delay in the One UI 8.5 rollout has been attributed to two main factors. First, Samsung has faced criticism for not incorporating features from the upcoming Galaxy S26 series into the S25 series beta. Users have expressed concerns that the company is intentionally withholding new AI features, such as Now Nudge and expanded Audio eraser support, from the current beta program. Second, Samsung appears to be taking additional time to test and integrate new features, focusing primarily on bug fixes in recent builds rather than introducing new functionalities.
Criticism from Users
Users have voiced dissatisfaction regarding the perceived limitations of the One UI 8.5 experience for the S25 series, suggesting that Samsung is strategically delaying the rollout to promote the S26 series. This sentiment reflects a broader concern among users about the company's approach to feature distribution across different device generations.
Official Statements & Responses
Samsung has confirmed that the One UI 8.5 beta program will continue to expand, adding more devices from various lineups. However, the company has not provided specific timelines for the stable release, which is now anticipated to be delayed until late April 2026.
What's Next for One UI 8.5
Looking ahead, Samsung is expected to release further beta updates for the Galaxy S23 FE and additional A series models in the coming weeks. The company continues to monitor user feedback as it prepares for the eventual stable rollout of One UI 8.5.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Samsung is receiving much-needed criticism for limiting the S26 series features from the S25 series.” — SammyFans
- “To be mentioned, the 9th beta only introduced the AirDrop file sharing support for Quick Share to the Galaxy S25 series.” — SammyFans
- “5 beta will add to the user experience.” — SammyFans
