Has the One UI 8.5 beta been delayed?

The start of the beta program for Samsung’s next Android user interface, One UI 8.5, has reportedly been postponed. The new interface was originally expected to be released to users with the first beta in November. However, reports indicate that this schedule has been changed due to development delays for the Galaxy S26 series.

One UI 8.5 beta may have been delayed

The primary reason for the delay is a development delay for one model in Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S26 series, specifically the Galaxy S26+. Samsung had previously removed this model from its production plans.

However, due to the poor sales performance of the previous-generation Galaxy S25 Edge, the company reinstated the S26+ in its production plans. This sudden change of decision and reintroduction disrupted the development process.

These changes had a knock-on effect. According to reports, Samsung has postponed the launch of the entire Galaxy S26 series until March. The beta phase for One UI 8.5, expected to launch alongside the new flagship series, is reportedly being slowed for this very reason.

Accordingly, the beta program for One UI 8.5, designed for the Galaxy S26 series, is now slated to begin in December or January, having been moved from November. This signals a significant revision in Samsung’s plans, although no official announcement has yet been made in tech circles.