Samsung has started the One UI 9.0 beta rollout with Android 17, introducing new AI features, stronger security tools, and support for flagship Galaxy devices.
Samsung has officially started the One UI 9.0 beta program on May 12, 2026, giving users an early look at its next major software upgrade based on Android 17. The update introduces a refreshed interface, stronger security tools, smarter customization options, and new AI-powered features that Samsung plans to expand later this year.
The first beta rollout is currently limited to the Galaxy S26 lineup, but Samsung is expected to gradually expand the stable version to foldables, older flagship phones, tablets, and several mid-range Galaxy devices over the coming months.
One UI 9.0 Beta Program Officially Starts
Samsung opened the first phase of the One UI 9.0 beta on May 12, 2026. The beta is currently available for users of the Samsung Galaxy S26, Samsung Galaxy S26+, and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra in selected regions.
The company is using the beta phase to collect feedback, improve system stability, and fine tune new features before the wider public release. Samsung users can join the beta through the Samsung Members app in supported countries.
First Phase Countries and Expansion Plans
The initial beta rollout is available in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and South Korea. Samsung plans to expand the beta program to India and Poland starting May 26, 2026.
Indian Galaxy users who own eligible S26 series devices will be able to register through the Samsung Members platform once the second phase opens later this month.
Samsung typically releases beta software in stages to avoid major stability issues and to test network compatibility in different markets.
Stable One UI 9.0 Release Expected in July 2026
The stable version of One UI 9.0 is expected to arrive around July 2026. Samsung will likely debut the software alongside the upcoming foldable smartphones, including the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8.
These foldables are expected to ship with One UI 9.0 preinstalled out of the box. After the foldable launch, Samsung is expected to begin a wider rollout for older Galaxy flagship devices.
The rollout for older premium models may continue through August and September 2026, while Galaxy A series devices and tablets could receive the update closer to the end of the year.
Redesigned Quick Panel Brings Better Control
One UI 9.0 introduces a redesigned Quick Panel that focuses on easier customization and cleaner navigation. Samsung has added thicker sliders for brightness and volume controls, making them easier to use on larger screens.
Users will also get more independent layout controls for media playback, brightness settings, and system sounds. The updated design aims to improve one handed usability while offering more flexibility for personalization.
The interface changes appear to continue Samsung’s push toward a more modern and simplified visual experience across Galaxy devices.
New Security Features Add More Protection
Samsung is also introducing stronger built in security tools with One UI 9.0. One of the biggest additions is a global App Lock feature, something Galaxy users have requested for years.
The update also includes high risk app detection technology that can evaluate installation risks and warn users about potentially dangerous apps before they are installed.
Samsung says the system is designed to block malicious software and improve protection against harmful applications, especially those downloaded from outside the Play Store.
Samsung Notes and Creative Tools Get Upgrades
Samsung is adding more creative options to several first party apps. The Contacts app now integrates with Creative Studio, allowing users to design customized profile cards with more personalization features.
Samsung Notes is also receiving visual improvements. Users will be able to add decorative digital tape elements and use new pen line styles for handwritten notes and creative projects.
These additions appear aimed at younger users and creators who use Galaxy devices for productivity and social customization.
Also Read: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra One UI 8.5 Update Expected Features
Advanced AI Features Will Arrive Later
Samsung has confirmed that more advanced AI features are in development for One UI 9.0, but they will not fully appear during the early beta phase.
The company plans to introduce these AI capabilities alongside its final stable hardware launches later in 2026. While Samsung has not revealed all details yet, expectations include smarter on device assistance, better content generation tools, and deeper AI integration across Galaxy apps.
AI has become a major focus for smartphone brands, and Samsung is expected to continue competing aggressively in this area during 2026.
Galaxy Z Fold and Flip Devices Expected to Receive the Update
Samsung’s foldable lineup is expected to be among the first devices to receive the stable One UI 9.0 version after the S26 series.
Eligible foldable devices are expected to include the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5.
Samsung is also expected to support newer form factors like the rumored Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold.
Galaxy S, A, M and F Series Phones on the Eligibility List
Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S lineup will receive priority after the foldables. Devices expected to get the update include the Galaxy S25 series, Galaxy S24 series, and Galaxy S23 lineup.
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, Samsung Galaxy S23+, and Samsung Galaxy S23 are expected to receive One UI 9.0 as their final major Android version upgrade.
Samsung is also preparing to expand support across its mid range Galaxy A series, including devices like the Samsung Galaxy A57, Samsung Galaxy A56, Samsung Galaxy A55, and several budget focused A series models.
Regional Galaxy M and Galaxy F series devices are also expected to receive the update in selected markets, especially India.
Galaxy Tablets Will Also Receive One UI 9.0
Samsung’s tablet lineup is expected to receive One UI 9.0 later in the rollout cycle. Premium tablets such as the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra, Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, and Galaxy Tab S9 series are expected to be included.
Samsung is also likely to update rugged tablets and budget tablet models, including the Galaxy Tab Active series and Galaxy Tab A lineup.
The company continues to strengthen software support across its tablet ecosystem to improve long term usability and productivity features.
Older Galaxy Devices Will Stay on One UI 8.5
Some older flagship devices have officially reached the end of their primary Android upgrade cycle. This includes the Galaxy S22 lineup and older foldables such as the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Flip 4.
These devices are expected to remain on One UI 8.5 and will likely continue receiving security updates for a limited period instead of major Android version upgrades.
What One UI 9.0 Means for Samsung Users?
One UI 9.0 appears to focus on three major areas: cleaner design, stronger security, and smarter AI integration. Samsung is gradually building a more connected software experience that works across phones, tablets, and foldables.
The update may not completely redesign the Galaxy experience, but it introduces several meaningful quality of life improvements that many users have been waiting for. With Android 17 as the foundation, One UI 9.0 could become one of Samsung’s most polished software updates in recent years.
Also Read: Android 17 Update: AI Features, Privacy Upgrades and New Beta Changes