Samsung One UI 8.5 Beta Expands, First Test Builds Spotted for Galaxy Tab S8 and S9 Series

Samsung is moving forward with development of its next major software update. The first test builds of One UI 8.5 have now been spotted for the Galaxy Tab S8 and Galaxy Tab S9 series tablets. This news comes just weeks after the beta program opened for the Galaxy S25.

This early server activity confirms work is ongoing. It signals that these premium tablets are in line to receive the update. A public release is expected sometime next year.

Development Progress Hints at Future Public Rollout

The build sightings were highlighted on the social platform X. They appear on Samsung’s internal servers. This is a standard part of the development process before a wider release.

According to Reuters, tech companies often use such internal testing phases. It allows them to refine software before a beta or public launch. For now, it is highly unlikely these tablets will join the public beta program.

Owners will likely need to wait for the stable public release. Samsung has not announced a timeline for that. The company typically follows a yearly major update cycle.

Some feature trimming for older devices is possible. Not every new function in One UI 8.5 may make it to these tablets. The final feature list will be confirmed closer to launch.

What This Means for Samsung Tablet Users

The arrival of test builds is a positive sign for support. It shows Samsung continues to prioritize its flagship tablet lines. Users can expect another year of significant software updates.

Based on past patterns, the public rollout may begin in early 2026. This could align with the launch of the Galaxy S26 series. The update will focus on performance, new AI features, and interface refinements.

This commitment helps maintain device value and user experience. It keeps older models feeling fresh and competitive. The development progress provides a clear roadmap for Samsung’s software strategy.

The discovery of these initial One UI 8.5 builds confirms Samsung’s broader update plans. Galaxy Tab S8 and S9 series users have a significant software upgrade to look forward to next year. The full scope of the One UI 8.5 update will become clearer as development continues.

A quick knowledge drop for you:

Q1: When will my Galaxy Tab S9 get One UI 8.5?

No official date is set. Based on Samsung’s history, the stable public rollout will likely begin in early 2026, possibly after the Galaxy S26 launch. You will not get it in the current beta phase.

Q2: Will the update have all the new features from the S25 beta?

Not necessarily. Samsung sometimes limits features on older devices to ensure stability. The final feature list for tablets will be confirmed closer to the public release date.

Q3: Is the beta program coming to these tablets?

It is highly unlikely. The current One UI 8.5 beta is focused on the Galaxy S25 series. Tablet users will receive the update directly via the stable public release channel next year.

Q4: What is One UI 8.5 based on?

One UI 8.5 is expected to be based on the upcoming Android 15 operating system. It will layer Samsung’s custom interface and features on top of Google’s base software.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Associated Press