The eligibility list is here, and it’s causing drama! The highly anticipated One UI 8.5 Beta, based on Android 16, is set to launch soon, but Samsung is drawing a firm line. This testing phase is highly selective, prioritizing only the absolute newest and highest-end devices.
According to latest leak, the testing is scheduled to begin on December 8th. This aggressive timeline means the public beta must be small and focused. Only a select group of flagships are deemed worthy of handling the rigorous, early software builds.
Strict Eligibility for the One UI 8.5 Beta Confirmed
So, who made the elite cut? The current flagship, the Galaxy S25 Series, is the absolute priority, with beta access dropping first. This includes the S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra models in key markets like the US and Korea.
The foldables are also included! The Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 are expected to join the beta pool shortly after the S25. This ensures the new features are optimized for Samsung’s unique folding and multitasking hardware from the start.
Now for the difficult truth: older flagships are being excluded from this initial beta test. The Galaxy S24 Series is reportedly unlikely to receive the beta. Samsung is making a strategic choice to focus solely on the S25-era hardware.
Why the sudden exclusion? The stable One UI 8.5 is the crucial launch software for the Galaxy S26 Series early next year. Using the newest devices for testing minimizes variables and helps Samsung guarantee a flawless S26 debut.
If you own an S25 or Fold/Flip 7, prepare for access on December 8th! For everyone else, the wait for the stable One UI 8.5 begins now. Samsung is making it clear: only the freshest hardware gets the cutting-edge software experience first.
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