Samsung apparently started One UI 9 tests, and I’m crying in my lack of One UI 8.5

https://www.androidcentral.com/phones/samsung-galaxy/samsung-apparently-started-one-ui-9-tests-and-im-crying-in-my-lack-of-one-ui-8-5

Publish Date: 2026-03-16 14:29:00

Source Domain: www.androidcentral.com

What you need to know

Samsung is reportedly starting its “early development” test for One UI 9, which is likely based on Android 17.
At the moment, a social media tipster claims there is very little new in the test; however, there are small UI refinements for its Quick Settings and Parental Controls.
Google rolled out its Android 17 test in February, but what’s disheartening is that Samsung’s test is beginning without the majority of its users on One UI 8.5.

Judging by the title, you can say this was “expected.” Rumors claim Samsung has started testing One UI 9.

Starting the week is a rumor from SamMobile, alongside purported evidence from tipster Max Jambor, that says Samsung’s One UI 9 testing is just beginning. The post claims the OS is in “early development,” which makes sense considering the software is likely based on Android 17. Major changes are being reported for this early test build, as Max Jambor says in a video on X. It’s likely that whatever Samsung has in store will be revealed over time, as even the software’s UI is pretty tame.

Android Central’s Take

Samsung has continued to refine its One UI elements for a while now. It’s gotten to a pretty decent spot that feels clean, fresh, and a bit modern. There are elements taken (borrowed?) from the competition, but that’s a different discussion. Regardless, I’ve seen speculation about Samsung likely working on features other than its UI, which I can understand, and I’m honestly fine with.

In Jambor’s video, the UI for this alleged One UI 9 build displays small refinements, such as with its sliders for brightness and volume in the full Quick Settings panel. The controls are “slightly larger,” per Jambor. Holding my Galaxy S25 Ultra to my PC screen (don’t judge), they do appear fuller/larger, much like the options toward the bottom for the Privacy Display, Nearby Devices, and more.

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