OPPO Find N6 is launching globally March 17, and I'm very excited about this feature

I went hands-on with the Razr Fold alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 7 — and I like Motorola's chances

Samsung Galaxy S26 launch live: The Galaxy S26 series is here, plus Galaxy Buds 4 and tons of exciting new One UI features

After launching on the Galaxy S26 and hitting the S25 beta, One UI 8.5 beta could soon expand to the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7.

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

Get the latest news from Android Central, your trusted companion in the world of Android

Samsung seems to be preparing a One UI 8.5 beta for its newest foldable phones.

Samsung released the stable One UI 8.5, built on Android 16 QPR2, with 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.

Internal beta firmware for both devices has already appeared, which usually happens just before Samsung starts a public beta test. A new rumor also now says the company has set up beta sections for these devices on its Community forum, as shared by Mohammed Khatri on X (via SamMobile).

This approach is typical for Samsung. The company usually starts its beta program with the latest Galaxy S flagship, then expands to other premium devices.

I appreciate how quickly Samsung is updating its foldables with new software. These phones already push mobile hardware, so fresh software matters too.

That’s exactly what seems to be happening here. The Galaxy S25 series is currently running the One UI 8.5 beta, while the Galaxy S26 lineup ships with the stable version right out of the box. With those devices already covered, it makes sense for Samsung to bring testing to its foldable lineup.

Samsung usually creates beta community pages for these test builds just before opening beta sign-ups in the Samsung Members app.

Looking at server activity and Samsung’s usual schedule, the beta for the Fold 7 and Flip 7 could start in mid-March if the company follows its normal timeline.

Get the latest news from Android Central, your trusted companion in the world of Android

That would likely push the stable One UI 8.5 rollout closer to April for these foldables instead of the earlier March window some users expected. In the meantime, Samsung appears to be continuing internal testing while rolling out routine security patches.

Both foldables came out in July 2025 with One UI 8 on Android 16, so One UI 8.5 will be their first big software update since launch.

One UI 8.5 isn’t a full Android upgrade, but it does add some useful changes to improve the experience. Notable updates include a customizable Quick Panel, so users can move or remove toggles and widgets more easily, plus interface updates in Samsung apps.

When I use a Z Fold 7, I want it to feel like the most powerful computer in my pocket, not a device waiting months for the S-series’ leftovers. By moving One UI 8.5 to beta so quickly, Samsung is showing that if you pay extra for a foldable, you’re getting the best software support in the Android world.

There are also improvements for one-handed use, more customization options with updated Good Lock modules, and new AI tools to make daily tasks easier.

Samsung also appears to be testing some foldable-specific improvements. Early builds suggest the Flip 7’s cover display may include a low-volume button when answering calls, helping prevent loud speaker audio from blasting in public.

Samsung hasn’t officially announced the beta for the Fold 7 and Flip 7 yet. However, the test firmware and beta setup suggest the rollout is coming soon.

Jay Bonggolto always keeps a nose for news. He has been writing about consumer tech and apps for as long as he can remember, and he has used a variety of Android phones since falling in love with Jelly Bean. Send him a direct message via X or LinkedIn.

You must confirm your public display name before commenting

Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.

Android Central is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site.

© Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.