Samsung Begins Testing Android 17-Based One UI 9 on Galaxy S26

Samsung has initiated internal testing of One UI 9, its next major software update based on Android 17, for the Galaxy S26 series. This development arrives shortly after the global launch of Samsung’s latest flagship phones.

Early Stages of Development

The first internal build of One UI 9 for the Galaxy S26 series, labeled BZC5, has appeared on Samsung’s servers, as initially reported by tipster Tarun Vats on X. This confirms that Samsung has begun the process of testing the new software.

Minor Visual Tweaks in Initial Build

Early builds of One UI 9 show only minor visual changes. Sammobile highlights slightly larger brightness and volume sliders in the Quick Panel on the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Samsung has moved Parental Controls to its own dedicated section within the Settings app, separating it from Digital Wellbeing.

Android 17 and One UI 9 Timeline

While Samsung has begun internal testing, a public release is still some time away. A beta program is anticipated to launch several months down the line, with a stable release expected to coincide with the launch of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Flip 8. Android Authority notes that this timeline aligns with Samsung’s development schedule from the previous year.

Android 17 Beta Progress

Google has already released beta versions of Android 17 for Pixel devices, introducing enhancements to app windowing, lock screen widgets, Live Notifications, and desktop mode. YtechB reports on these developments.

Galaxy S26 Series and Current Software

The Galaxy S26 series currently ships with One UI 8.5, built on Android 16. Gadgets360 confirms that beta testers may soon gain early access to Android 17.

Source: GSMarena