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Today — 13 May 2026Sammy Fans

Samsung Galaxy Watch users report annoying YouTube Music playback issue

13 May 2026 at 15:29

Some Samsung Galaxy Watch users are facing a problem with YouTube Music on Wear OS, mainly when they try to listen to downloaded songs offline. The issue mainly affects people who use their watch without keeping their phone connected, like during workouts, running, or traveling.

Usually, when a playlist is downloaded on a Galaxy Watch, it should play one song after another smoothly. But in this bug, the music often stops after the first song finishes. After that, the next songs do not play automatically, even though the playlist is fully downloaded on the watch.

The annoying part of the issue is that the playback buttons stop working properly. Options like Next song or other controls become greyed out, so users cannot skip or move forward in the playlist. The music app still shows the playlist, but it does not respond as expected.

This issue has been reported on different Galaxy Watch models, not just one specific version. That means it is likely a software problem rather than a hardware issue.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra 2

Some users have tried basic fixes like restarting the watch, clearing the app cache, or deleting and re-downloading songs. These steps sometimes help for a short time, but the problem usually comes back after a while.

A similar issue has also been seen on other smartwatches like the Pixel Watch, which suggests the bug may be related to the overall Wear OS system or the YouTube Music app itself, rather than just Samsung devices.

Right now, there is no permanent fix available. Google has not officially confirmed the issue or shared when it might be resolved. So users are currently relying on temporary solutions and waiting for an update to fix the problem.

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Samsung Browser may soon roll out a refresh toolbar appearance

13 May 2026 at 14:30

Samsung Internet Browser may soon get a small but useful visual upgrade that makes its interface look more modern and stylish. A new design change has been found inside a test version of the browser, showing that Samsung is working on improving how the bottom toolbar looks.

In version v30.0.2.30, Assemble Debug found hidden code for a new “toolbar blur effect.” This feature is not available to users yet, but it can already be enabled in testing. The blur effect gives the bottom toolbar a soft, frosted-glass look instead of a flat background. It mainly affects the toolbar where buttons like back, forward, and home are placed.

The blur effect becomes more visible when the bookmark bar is placed at the bottom of the screen. In this setup, both the bookmark bar and the toolbar appear slightly blurred, making the interface look smoother and more layered.

Samsung Browser New design

Image via Android Authority

However, if the bookmark bar is moved to the top of the screen, the blur effect does not appear. Instead, the bar changes its color to match the website being viewed, if the site supports that feature. This helps the browser blend better with different webpages.

Even with these changes, the main toolbar will stay fixed at the bottom of the screen so users can easily reach it with their thumb.

At the moment, this feature is only found in hidden code and is not active for regular users. It means the feature is still under development. There is no official release date yet, and it may arrive in a future update if Samsung decides to enable it.

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Galaxy Z Fold8 Wide complete camera specs and hero color leak

13 May 2026 at 14:08

Galaxy Z Fold8 Wide will join Samsung’s innovative foldable portfolio this Summer, but an industry report has just revealed the upcoming phone’s complete camera specs and the hero color.

According to the info, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 Wide may feature 50-megapixel sensors in both the main and ultrawide camera modules. For selfies, the device is expected to rely on Samsung’s 10-megapixel setup for both cover and internal screen sensors.

Folks over at SamMobile report that the primary camera could feature f/1.8 aperture, while the ultrawide sensor could bring f/1.9 aperture. The setup suggests Samsung is opting for a balanced approach rather than extra camera hardware.

Additionally, Samsung could launch the Galaxy Z Fold8 Wide in Dark Green as the hero (signature) color. The device would be available in even more colors, but information regarding those shades is not currently in the public domain.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Wide lacks a dedicated telephoto camera. Fans expected Samsung may use its 200-megapixel sensor like the Fold 7. Well, it doesn’t seem to be happening this year, yet the photography experience will be impressive.

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Fold8 Wide may be equipped with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chips globally. Google and Samsung recently announced that the new foldable phones will be equipped with Gemini Intelligence features.

Samsung is widely expected to hold one of its busiest Unpacked events on July 22 in London. Galaxy XR Glasses, Galaxy Watch 9, andthe second-gen Watch Ultra would be introduced at the event alongside the three foldable phones.

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How to join One UI 9 Beta Program – A comprehensive guide

13 May 2026 at 13:53

Samsung has officially opened the One UI 9 Beta Program for the Galaxy S26 series, giving users early access to the company’s next major Android (version 17) experience before the stable rollout later this year.

The beta program is currently live in the US, UK, Korea, and Germany for the Galaxy S26, S26+ and S26 Ultra. Samsung has also confirmed that the second beta update, scheduled for May 26, will expand availability to India and Poland.

If you want to try new One UI 9 features before everyone else, here’s everything you need to know.

What is the One UI 9 Beta Program?

The beta program allows Galaxy users to test upcoming One UI features ahead of the public release. Participants can explore new UI changes, customization tools, productivity upgrades, gaming enhancements, and accessibility improvements.

Since beta software is still under development, users may encounter occasional glitches, battery drain, or app compatibility problems.

Eligible devices

Currently, the One UI 9 Beta Program is available for:

  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
  • Samsung Galaxy S26+
  • Samsung Galaxy S26

Supported countries

Available now

  • United States
  • United Kingdom
  • South Korea
  • Germany

Expanding on May 26 with Beta 2

  • India
  • Poland

How to join the One UI 9 Beta Program

Joining the beta is fairly straightforward. Here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Update Samsung Members

  • Make sure the Samsung Members app is updated to the latest version from the Galaxy Store or Play Store.

2. Sign in with your Samsung account

  • Open Samsung Members and log in using the Samsung account linked to your Galaxy S26 device.

3. Find the One UI 9 Beta banner

  • Inside the app, look for the One UI 9 Beta Program banner on the home page. Samsung usually highlights it prominently once registrations are live in your region.

4. Register for the beta

  • Tap the banner and complete the enrollment process. Once registration is approved, your device becomes eligible for the beta firmware.

5. Download the beta update

  • Go to:
    • Settings > Software update > Download and install
    • Your Galaxy S26 phone should now detect the One UI 9 beta build.

Credit – Dado2jj/X

Important things to know before installing

Before installing the beta, there are a few things worth keeping in mind:

  • Back up your data
  • Banking and payment apps may not work
  • Battery life and performance may fluctuate

Can you leave the beta program later?

Samsung allows users to withdraw from the beta program through the Members app. However, rolling back to stable software usually requires a factory reset, which wipes device data.

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One UI 9 Beta Program now live in the US – Galaxy S26 users get first look

13 May 2026 at 13:43

Samsung just started releasing the One UI 9 Beta Program for the Galaxy S26 series in Germany, the UK, and Korea. Now, Samsung has opened the Beta Program for users in the US. It means that users can now enjoy the new features and enhancements ahead of the official release.

Users of the Samsung Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra can now join the beta via Samsung Members. This is the first beta update for the Galaxy S26 series, as the devices originally launched with One UI 8.5 pre-installed.

One UI 9 Beta update introduces several improvements and updated features to provide a better Galaxy experience. Also, it includes the May 2026 security patch. This program allows users to test new features before the stable rollout. Since this is a beta version, users may experience minor bugs or performance issues during daily use.

Credit – Dado2jj/X

However, participants can help Samsung improve the software by sharing feedback and reporting issues through the Samsung Members app. To join the beta program, users need to open the app, sign in with their Samsung account, and tap the One UI 9 Beta Program banner. After registration, the update can be downloaded by going to Settings >> Software Update >> Download and Install.

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Top 12 features One UI 9 Beta has for Galaxy S26 series – Full Changelog

13 May 2026 at 13:24

Samsung has started rolling out the One UI 9 Beta update to the Galaxy S26 series, and the official changelog lists 12 major features and changes.

The Android 17-based One UI 9 update focuses heavily on customization, productivity, gaming, and accessibility improvements. That’s not the full Samsung to offer, with the full experience will be unveiling this Summer.

It also introduces a more flexible Quick Panel experience, allowing users to resize brightness and volume sliders, customize the media player layout, and rearrange controls more freely than before. [Changelog credit – Alfaturk]

Samsung DeX also gets smarter multitasking tools, including easier app window movement between desktops and desktop previews directly in the Recents menu.

One UI 9 further expands Samsung Notes with a new “Tape” feature that can temporarily hide parts of notes for studying or presentations, alongside additional pen styles for writing and drawing.

Gamers will benefit from expanded Game Booster controls that now let users adjust screen resolution, screenshot format, and other settings without leaving gameplay.

Privacy and accessibility are also receiving major attention.

A new blue location indicator makes it easier to identify when apps are accessing your location data, while Accessibility settings now include a dedicated “What’s new” section for discovering the latest features.

Samsung has also added tools like Text Spotlight for enlarged reading, improved keyboard and mouse accessibility controls, Select to Speak functionality, and streamlined TalkBack updates through the Play Store.

One UI 9 Beta Changelog

More customizable quick panel

You can now rearrange and customize the controls in your quick panel even more than before. You can change the size of the brightness and volume sliders as well as the media player. You can also separate the sound mode button from the volume slider.

Samsung DeX enhancements

It’s easier to move an app window from one desktop to another using the menu at the top of the window. Desktop previews are now available at the top of the Recents screen, making it easier to switch with a single tap.

Do more with notes

The new Tape feature in Samsung Notes let’s you cover parts of your note with tape and reveal them when needed. A variety of new pen styles have also been added, giving you even more options for writing and drawing.

More settings in Game Booster panel

Adjust your game settings without stopping the action. You can now access screen resolution, screenshot format, and more directly from the Game Booster panel.

Location access transparency

Stay on top of your location privacy. A blue indicator will appear at the top of the screen when an app accesses your location. Tap the indicator in the quick panel to see which app it is.

Discover new Accessibility features

Check the What’s new menu in Accessibility settings to learn about and try the latest Accessibility features for your Galaxy.

Text spotlight for easier reading

Need a closer look? Tap any text on the screen to show it enlarged and highlighted in its own window. You can also customize the font size, colors, and other settings to match your preferences.

Physical keyboard shortcuts

Use shortcuts on your physical keyboard to access the Accessibility settings you need without touching the screen.

Mouse keys enhancements

New options are available when using your keyboard for mouse interactions including speed and acceleration control. You can also use the keyboard’s number pad to point and click.

Replace swipe with single tap

The Replace swipe with single tap option is now located on Dexterity and interaction menu instead of the Assistant menu for easier access.

Select to speak

Get quick audio readouts without turning on full TalkBack. With the new Select to speak feature, you can select an item on your screen, like text or an image, and hear it read or described out loud.

Improved TalkBack updates

Through continuous collaboration, Samsung and Google’s TalkBack features have been unified. TalkBack updates can now be applied with a simple app update from the Play Store.

Samsung One UI 9 Official Image

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Samsung releases One UI 9 Beta, get it on your Galaxy S26 now!

13 May 2026 at 12:59

Samsung has just released the first One UI 9 Beta update for the Galaxy S26 series. Rather than South Korea, Samsung has picked European countries to kick off the Beta Program this time.

Note that One UI 9 Beta won’t directly arrive as an OTA update. You need to sign up through the Samsung Members app and complete the enrollment.

As of writing, Samsung’s Android 17-based One UI 9 Beta is now available for download in Germany and the UK (via TarunVats) as well as South Korea. It should soon be available in the US, along with South Korea.

How to get One UI 9 Beta?

To join the Beta Program, open Samsung Members on your Galaxy device. Swipe up and tap on the One UI Beta Programme banner at the bottom and follow the on-screen instructions.

At last, you will need to tap Enroll now button to complete the process. Once done, you will receive the first Beta software update over the air.

Beta 1 carries PDA build version ending with ZZEF, weighs 3618 megabytes, and includes the May 2026 patch. Since it’s a big package, you should be on a stable and unmetered connection to ensure uninterrupted installation.

What’s new in One UI 9

One UI 9 is based on Android 17, bringing upgrades to customization, accessibility, and security. Samsung yesterday revealed the details about features and changes that Samsung users will receive in Beta software update.

Looking ahead, Samsung will unveil the full experience of One UI 9 this Summer. The next-gen Galaxy foldables will likely debut Gemini Intelligence features. We may have an early preview at some tweaks in Beta Program.

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Many Samsung phones missing from Google’s AirDrop compatibility list

13 May 2026 at 11:47

Quick Share to AirDrop sharing, and vice versa, is one of the biggest upgrades Samsung provided through One UI 8.5 update. Google has now released a list, and many Samsung phones are missing on the AirDrop compatibility front.

As part of its “The Android Show 2026,” Google talked about Android 17 and software advancements. Google also revealed a list of phones, including Samsung and other Android OEMs, that support AirDrop sharing.

Google says (via Cartidise) AirDrop support is coming soon to these Samsung devices:

  • Galaxy S24, S24+ and S24 Ultra
  • Galaxy S25, S25+ and S25 Ultra
  • Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 6
  • Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Galaxy Z Fold 7
  • Galaxy Z TriFold

While Google says AirDrop support is “coming soon,” the reality is entirely different. Samsung has already provided AirDrop connection to its recent premium Galaxy devices, with Stable One UI 8.5 expanding the availability.

File sharing had always been a frustrating experience when you have Android and your friend has an Apple device. Google cracked Apple’s wall, making Quick Share capable enough to transfer files via Apple’s AirDrop platform.

Many Samsung devices are not listed

While Samsung dominates the chart, many important devices are entirely missing from the list. It includes the Galaxy S23 series, Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5, the Galaxy A/M/F series phones, as well as the Galaxy Tab S tablet portfolio.

A wider expansion may have been planned for a future date. For now, the focus is entirely on the latest models and recent releases. If Google decides to widen the coverage, Samsung would make it happen through incremental updates.

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Samsung renews the app required for One UI 9 Beta enrollment

13 May 2026 at 11:02

Just a day after announcing the One UI 9 Beta, Samsung has updated the Members app, which is essential for Beta enrollment.

The new Samsung Members app version 5.8.01.5 has started rolling out to Galaxy users, right before the company opens One UI 9 Beta enrollment.

Last month, Samsung renewed the design of its Members app. The redesign brought One UI 8.5 aesthetics, including the floating navigation bar. The recent update seems crucial as a new Beta participation opens soon.

Samsung yesterday confirmed that the One UI 9 Beta will release for Galaxy S26 series this week. Users in Germany, Korea, the UK, and the US will get the first Beta soon, while Indian and Polish users will join the party on May 26.

One UI Beta will initially go live on the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra. However, the Members app update would appear on a wide range of devices. If you are getting the update, it doesn’t mean Beta Program will come too.

Samsung Members update come without a changelog attached. No interface-linked change is likely to be carried in this build, as a refresh was recently provided. It’s all about setting the foundation for the next streak of Beta sign-ups.

Samsung Members May 2026 Update

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Samsung restoring missing Galaxy Enhance-X features on One UI 8.5

13 May 2026 at 10:12

Samsung users who have updated to One UI 8.5 are facing a weird issue: select Galaxy Enhance-X features have suddenly gone missing. A moderator response reveals that the company is aware of the issue and is working on a fix.

Galaxy Enhance-X is Samsung’s advanced AI-powered photo editing app. It offers features that go beyond the stock Gallery editor, including image upscaling, reflection removal, sharpening, and other enhancement tools.

Meanwhile, users updating to One UI 8.5 are noticing that some of those capabilities are no longer available. According to complaints, Enhance-X features like Filter Styles and Glow plugins are missing after the One UI 8.5 update.

One user also claimed that reinstalling the app made things worse, as Galaxy Enhance-X reportedly stopped appearing in the Galaxy Store altogether.

Samsung is working on a fix

A community moderator from Samsung’s camera team responded (via MojoTrick) to the growing reports, acknowledging that a glitch tied to One UI 8.5 is indeed affecting the Enhance-X app.

The moderator said the team is already working on a fix and plans to distribute the update gradually through a staged rollout to ensure stability across supported Galaxy devices.

The good news is that Samsung doesn’t expect users to wait very long. According to the moderator, the bug-fixing rollout could take up to three days to fully complete.

Related article:

Samsung Galaxy Enhance-X features missing

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Galaxy XR Glasses, Watch 9 and Fold8 Wide to join Fold 8, Flip 8 at July Unpacked

13 May 2026 at 09:27

Samsung is preparing one of its busiest Unpacked events in recent years. The company is expected to unveil the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Z Flip 8, Watch 9, Watch Ultra 2, and its first smart glasses product during the July 22 launch event in London.

According to SEDaily, Samsung is almost certain to launch Galaxy XR Glasses and Fold8 Wide model alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Flip 8, and Watch 9 at its London Unpacked this July.

Samsung is experimenting with a wider outer display instead of the narrow Fold design it has followed for generations. The move appears aimed at solving one of the most common complaints around book-style foldables.

The wider layout could make the external screen feel more like a conventional smartphone. Apple is widely rumored to be preparing foldable iPhone, and Samsung wants to reinforce its lead before new competition enters the foldable market.

Alongside the foldables, Samsung may finally introduce its long-rumored smart glasses project, reportedly called Galaxy Glasses. The wearable is said to be developed in partnership with Google and eyewear brand Gentle Monster.

Samsung is said to rely on Android XR and Gemini AI to deliver voice-based assistance and real-time contextual features.

The Galaxy Watch9 series is also expected to debut during the event, although current leaks remain focused primarily on the foldables and XR hardware.

Related article:

If the reports are accurate, Samsung’s July Unpacked event could become less about yearly smartphone upgrades and more about ecosystem expansion.

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Galaxy Watch 9, Ultra 2 and Tab S12 battery capacity revealed

13 May 2026 at 08:25

Early BIS listing of Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 9, Watch Ultra 2, and Tab S12+ revealed the potential battery capacity of these upcoming devices.

Samsung is expected to hold the Galaxy Unpacked event on July 22 in London. The company will launch the Z Fold 8, Z Flip 8, and Z Fold8 Wide. The next-gen smartwatches, including the Watch 9 and Watch Ultra 2, may join the event.

The Unpacked event may also welcome AI-powered Galaxy Glasses. Samsung is working on the development and a launch is being prepared. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Tab S12+ and Tab S12 Ultra would be unveiled on a later date.

Ahead of the official reveal, folks at SammyGuru discovered the battery capacity of the Galaxy Watch 9, Watch Ultra 2, and Tab S12+ on India’s BIS certification.

  • Galaxy Watch 9 [EB-BL345DAY]
    • 40mm – 382mAh
    • 44mm – 435mAh
  • Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 [EB-BL715DAY]
    • 784mAh
  • Galaxy Tab S12+ [EB-BX846AAE/Y]
    • ~ 10,500mAh

Earlier reports revealed that the next-gen Galaxy watches may rely on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset. Google’s new Wear OS-based One UI Watch software will come preloaded, carrying smart new features.

In addition, the Galaxy Tab S12 series could launch with MediaTek Dimensity 9500 or Dimensity 9500+ processor. The lineup will include two models: Galaxy Tab S12 Plus and Ultra, with Tab S11 not getting a successor.

Galaxy Unpacked may be held on July 22 in London. The company is shifting the venue as part of its foldable push in Europe. The date isn’t officially sealed, but the supply chain is weighing everything on the given timeline.

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One UI 9 Beta not releasing for all this week, here’s the actual date

13 May 2026 at 07:54

Samsung stunned Galaxy fans by unveiling One UI 9 Beta Program for Galaxy S26 series. The Beta enrollment begins this week, and Samsung just revealed the Wave 2 release date and countries for One UI 9 Beta Program.

One UI 9 is built on Android 17 and introduces plenty of upgrades. The Galaxy user experience will touch new heights with the refinements. Samsung is also teasing new customization features and UI changes for Beta Program.

One UI 9 Beta – Wave 2

On May 13, Samsung confirmed through its Korean Newsroom the Wave 2 release date and countries of One UI 9 Beta.

Samsung’s Beta Program will launch on May 26 in India and Poland.

The Beta will be available in six countries, with four already joining this week. That said, the Wave 1 countries include Germany, South Korea, the UK and the US.

With Samsung revealing the Wave 2 timeline, it’s almost confirmed that the second Beta update of the Galaxy S26 lineup will also be released on May 26.

The Korean tech giant usually follows the same strategy for Beta Program. India and Poland historically joined Beta Program later than the initial markets. India is a vast market and ensuring firmware stability is necessary.

Samsung One UI 9 Beta 2 Release Date

One UI 9 Beta will debut new customization options, accessibility improvements, and security upgrades. There will be plenty to explore, but the full experience will be unveiled this Summer with the upcoming foldable phones.

Google also discussed major upgrades to Android 17. Gemini Intelligence features are also being prepared for Galaxy and Pixel phones. The rollout is slated for Summer, but we may have a preview during the Beta Program.

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Samsung announces Gemini Intelligence features will arrive first on Galaxy

13 May 2026 at 07:02

Samsung officially announced that Gemini Intelligence features will arrive first on Galaxy devices. The company has also signalled that its Unpacked event will be held in Summer 2026, which is expected in late July.

At the Galaxy Unpacked 2026, Samsung will unveil new foldable phones, Wear OS smartwatches, and AI-powered smart glasses. These products will be equipped with Google’s set of Gemini Intelligence features.

Google confirmed the Gemini Intelligence rollout in its press release. Later on, CEO Sundar Pichai also posted a thread on X, quoting which, Samsung announced priority access on Galaxy devices in the Summer this year.

Gemini Intelligence features will roll out in waves starting with the latest Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel phones this summer, and across Android devices, including your watch, car, glasses & laptops later this year!

Samsung Gemini Intelligence Features

Gemini can handle multi-step actions across apps, like turning a grocery list into a delivery order or finding information from Gmail and adding products to your cart automatically.

The Mountain View company is also integrating Gemini into Google Chrome, where it can summarize webpages, compare content, and help with tasks like bookings.

Another notable feature is Rambler in Gboard, which converts casual speech into polished text while supporting multilingual conversations, including mixed languages like English and Hindi.

Google is also introducing AI-generated widgets through “Create My Widget,” allowing users to build custom widgets using natural language prompts.

These features may debut first on Samsung’s upcoming foldables before expanding to the Galaxy S26 series, Pixel 11 series, and more Android products later this year.

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Yesterday — 12 May 2026Sammy Fans

New Android 17 Features – Rambler, AI Widgets, Emoji Redesign, Pause Point, Screen Reactions and More

12 May 2026 at 22:46

At The Android Show 2026, Google just took the wraps off new Android 17 features. The new operating system doubles down on AI, and Samsung users are set to benefit from these upgrades as part of One UI 9 later this year.

Android 17 is shaping up to be one of the more meaningful platform updates in recent memory. Between smarter transcription, deeper cross-platform sharing, anti-distraction tools, and tighter security, there’s enough here to matter.

For Samsung users, especially those eyeing the next flagship cycle, Android 17 could end up feeling less like a routine OS refresh and more like the foundation for One UI 9.

Rambler

Google’s new Rambler tool upgrades Android dictation in a way that actually feels useful.

It removes filler words, fixes mistakes while you speak, and understands context changes naturally. If you change your mind midway through a sentence, Rambler can adjust the final message accordingly.

Android 17 Rambler

Create My Widget

Android 17 now lets users generate widgets with simple text prompts.

Users can ask for things like a weather widget for cyclists or a protein-focused meal planner. Samsung already offers deep widget customization through One UI and Good Lock, but Google is now using Gemini AI to automate the process.

Android 17 Create My Widget

Pause Point

Pause Point is Google’s newest Digital Wellbeing feature.

Once an app is marked as distracting, Android adds a mandatory 10-second delay before opening it. Users can also set usage limits and receive breathing prompts during the countdown.

Android 17 Pause Point

Wider Quick Share and AirDrop compatibility

Google is expanding Quick Share support across more Android brands. Android 17 also introduces QR-based file sharing for iPhone users, allowing files to transfer directly into iCloud storage.

Screen Reactions

Screen Reactions lets users record their screen and selfie camera simultaneously in a creator-friendly layout. The feature works with videos, websites, photos, and apps, placing the user’s face as an overlay on top of the content.

Android 17 Screen Reactions

Emoji redesign

Google has redesigned Android’s entire emoji library with more depth and detail.

The older flat, cartoon-style emojis are being replaced with a cleaner 3D-inspired look. It’s a subtle visual change, but one users will notice daily across messaging apps and social media.

Android 17 Emoji

Switching across OS

Android 17 improves switching from iPhone to Android with expanded wireless migration support.

Users can transfer contacts, messages, files, home screen layouts, and eSIM data from iPhones running iOS 26.3. Samsung Galaxy devices are expected to support the full experience early on.

Gemini automation

Google is expanding Gemini-powered task automation in Android 17.

The feature will support more third-party apps and can perform actions like ordering groceries from shopping lists or creating travel plans based on photos and saved information.

Gemini Intelligence

AI assistant in Chrome

Android 17 is bringing Gemini deeper into Chrome with new AI-assisted browsing tools.

Gemini will help summarize webpages, assist with form filling through Autofill, and support automated browsing features. Google says some of these upgrades will begin rolling out later this year.

Security updates

Android 17 includes several new security improvements focused on scam protection and stolen device security.

Users can remotely enable biometric protection through Find Hub when a phone is marked lost. Google is also strengthening malware detection, limiting repeated PIN attempts, and improving scam call protection.

Related article:

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Gemini Intelligence is coming to Galaxy S26 series with Android 17

12 May 2026 at 21:37

At Android Show: I/O Edition 2026, Google announced Gemini Intelligence, a new capability that is coming to the Google Pixel and Galaxy S26 series devices.

Here are the latest features

Intelligent Autofill

It will find the information on your phone and fill the input fields on your behalf. For example, you are filling in your passport details, and your phone’s gallery has a picture of the passport. You tap once in the Gemini suggestion, like Now Nudge, and it will fill all of the required boxes with the details without you doing that manually.

Rambler

This is a new addition; it will polish the voice-to-text, which contains stutters and incomplete sentences, and bring a complete text that sounds natural and ready to send. You can also ask Gemini to add emojis to the voice text, and it will add emojis that will match the context.

Automation

Users can automate tasks by asking Gemini to do their work on their behalf. Users can ask Gemini to book tickets, and it will get on to the task and complete it. You can follow up with Gemini for more tasks related to the initial request.

Gemini Intelligence

Create custom widgets

Users can ask Gemini to create their own widget with AI, like creating a custom recipe to place on the home screen. This feature may be limited to the Pixel Watch and other Google products.

Rollout

Google says that the Galaxy S26 series will be getting Gemini Intelligence this summer. The company could not be specific. So we expect the feature to be released with the final version of One UI 9 (Android 17)

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Samsung launches One UI 9 Beta program, repeating its historic mistake

12 May 2026 at 19:50

We have big news for Sammy Fans! The company has officially announced the One UI 9 Beta program. After rolling out the stable One UI 8.5 update, it looks like Samsung is not wasting any time moving forward to the next big version.

The Android 17-based One UI 9 is expected to bring new features, better AI tools, smoother animations, and many improvements. Many of us are waiting for the One UI 9 beta to try new things early and help Samsung fix bugs before the stable release.

As per the official announcement, the beta program is coming this week. The Beta program will first be available for the latest Galaxy S26 series users. Samsung could expand the beta program for the Galaxy S25 series or the latest foldables.

You might get a chance to join the beta program through the Samsung Members app. Just keep an eye on the banner or notification in the app.

Here’s the disappointing part: Samsung is limiting the beta program to just a few countries once more. From what we know, it will be available only in places like United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, South Korea, and India.

This is the same story every year. Millions of Samsung users around the world are left waiting and watching others enjoy the latest beta. Many Galaxy fans have been asking for a global beta program for a long time. Why not open it to more countries? People in places like Brazil, Indonesia, Middle East, Australia, Africa, and other parts of Asia also want to participate in the beta program.

I think it is a missed opportunity. Samsung has a huge global fanbase. Samsung should allow more users to join the beta, which could give the developer better feedback and make One UI 9 even stronger. Instead, the company is repeating the old habit of keeping it small.

In short, if you are in one of the lucky countries, open the Samsung Members app regularly and check for the beta registration. If not, don’t lose hope. The stable One UI 9 update should reach most countries a few months after the beta testing ends. You can always share your thoughts on Samsung forums or social media.

Samsung One UI 9 Official Image

Samsung’s One UI 9 looks promising, and it’s great that Samsung is moving fast. But limiting the beta program feels like the same historic mistake the company has made many times before. I hope one day the company will listen to the global community and make the beta truly open for everyone.

What do you think? Are you excited for One UI 9? Drop your thoughts on X handle @thesammyfans.

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One UI 9 Features: Samsung’s Android 17 Beta bringing new customization, accessibility and security upgrades

12 May 2026 at 17:16

On May 12, Samsung officially unveiled the One UI 9 Beta and confirmed features coming in its Android 17 Beta Program. The list includes new customization tools, accessibility upgrades, and security improvements.

While Samsung says the full One UI 9 experience will debut later this year alongside upcoming flagship devices, the company has already confirmed a handful of upgrades focused on creativity, personalization, accessibility, and security.

Here’s a closer look at the One UI 9 features Samsung has confirmed for the Beta Program.

Samsung Notes gets more creative tools

Samsung is expanding customization inside the Samsung Notes app with new decorative tapes and additional pen line styles.

These additions should make Samsung Notes feel more flexible for both productivity and creativity, especially on devices that support the S Pen.

Contacts app now connects directly to Creative Studio

One UI 9 also improves profile customization. Samsung confirmed that the Contacts app will now offer direct access to Creative Studio.

This will allow users to create personalized profile cards without switching between apps. It’s designed to simplify profile editing and give Galaxy users more ways to personalize how they appear in contacts.

Redesigned Quick Panel offers deeper customization

Samsung is making the Quick Panel more adjustable in One UI 9. Users will now be able to independently resize and control sections like brightness, sound, and the media player.

The update also introduces additional layout and sizing options, which could be one of the more practical upgrades in daily use, especially for users who prefer cleaner or more compact quick settings layouts.

Accessibility improvements

Samsung confirmed an adjustable Mouse Key speed option for smoother cursor movement. The company is also combining TalkBack features previously split between Samsung and Google into a unified package.

Another new addition is Text Spotlight, a feature that enlarges selected text inside a floating window for easier reading. It appears designed to improve readability for users who struggle with smaller text elements.

Stronger protection against risky apps

Samsung is also strengthening security protections in One UI 9.

When suspicious apps are detected, One UI 9 may warn users, block installation or execution, and recommend deleting the app through updated security policies.

Samsung One UI 9 Official Image

Samsung is expected to reveal additional One UI 9 features in the coming months as the stable rollout gets closer.

One UI 9 Beta availability

Samsung will start the gradual rollout of One UI 9 Beta to Galaxy S26 series this week in six countries, including India, the US, Germany, Poland, South Korea, the UK and the US.

Related articles:

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It’s official: One UI 9 Beta releases this week in these countries

12 May 2026 at 16:36

Samsung has officially confirmed the first batch of countries eligible for the One UI 9 Beta Program, and the rollout is beginning with the Galaxy S26 series.

The One UI 9 Beta is based on Android 17 and introduces several new customizations, accessibility, and security improvements ahead of the stable launch later this year.

According to Samsung, the One UI 9 beta program will initially be available in six countries:

  • India
  • United States
  • United Kingdom
  • Germany
  • South Korea
  • Poland

Galaxy S26 users in these regions can register for the Beta through the Samsung Members app once the Program goes live in their market.

This year’s list does not bring major surprises, although some users may still be disappointed to see countries like Canada, France, Spain, and several Southeast Asian markets missing.

Markets like India, Korea, the US, and Germany have become regular testing grounds for major One UI releases, while Poland often serves as an additional European testing region.

Related article:

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Samsung announces One UI 9 official release date

12 May 2026 at 16:27

In a surprising turn of events, Samsung has officially announced the One UI 9 release date, which is the next Unpacked event.

Samsung recently started the stable One UI 8.5 rollout for the Galaxy S25 series. Ending the month-long wait for users. Adding another surprising element to the story is that the company is starting a One UI 9 beta test campaign as early as this week.

The first device to enter the test pool will be the Galaxy S26, S26 Plus, and S26 Ultra. Programs such as these prioritize the recently released flagship to experience the latest software first. However, we cannot rule out the possibility of a program expansion, which could include the Galaxy S25 series and Fold 7/Flip 7 series.

Samsung has revealed that the One UI 9 will bring new improvements across the software. That includes better Samsung Notes with creative tools. Polished Contacts app, and the Quick Panel will also get layout adjustment improvements. So, you can adjust its key elements independently.

Furthermore, the phone maker intends to introduce the text spotlight feature, which displays selected text larger and more clearly in a floating window to make readability easier.

Samsung will launch the One UI 9 beta program for the S26 series in Germany, India, Korea, Poland, the UK, and the US, but a specific date is missing from the action.

Samsung usually holds a second Unpacked event in July or August. Similar to last year, Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Flip 8 will be getting the official build first and bringing it out of the box. Unfortunately, Galaxy S26 series users will have to wait longer to get the final build.

“The full experience of One UI 9 will be introduced with upcoming Galaxy flagship devices later this year, which will include advanced AI features that will make mobile interaction easy and effortless,” wrote Samsung.

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Samsung officially launches One UI 9 Beta (Android 17) for Galaxy S26 series

12 May 2026 at 16:17

Samsung has officially launched the One UI 9 Beta Program for the Galaxy S26 series. Based on Android 17, the update focuses on smarter customization, accessibility improvements, and stronger security, while also laying the groundwork for Samsung’s upcoming AI-driven mobile features.

One UI 9 Beta rollout starts this week in select countries, including India, the U.S., the U.K., Germany, Korea, and Poland.

Eligible Galaxy S26 users can enroll through the Samsung Members app, continuing Samsung’s familiar beta testing approach.

The Korean tech giant officially confirmed that the Stable One UI 9 will be released with the upcoming foldable Galaxy devices later this year.

One UI 9 introduces several quality-of-life upgrades across the system. Samsung Notes now includes decorative tapes and additional pen line styles, making note-taking feel more personal and visually engaging.

What’s new in One UI 9 Beta

Samsung is also integrating Creative Studio more deeply into the system, allowing users to create customized profile cards directly from the Contacts app without jumping between apps.

Quick Panel is receiving one of its biggest visual refinements in recent years. Users can now independently resize and rearrange brightness controls, media playback, and sound sections, making the panel far more flexible.

Samsung has improved Mouse Key speed adjustments for smoother cursor movement and merged Samsung and Google TalkBack features into a unified package.

The new Text Spotlight feature enlarges selected text inside a floating window, which could genuinely improve readability for users with visual difficulties.

Samsung is also tightening device protection in One UI 9. From a broader perspective, One UI 9 feels less like a dramatic redesign and more like Samsung refining the small frustrations.

For now, Galaxy S26 users are getting the first look at Samsung’s Android 17 vision. If the beta remains stable and feature-rich throughout testing, One UI 9 could end up being one of Samsung’s most polished software updates in years.

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Galaxy S26 Ultra output ramped for the 2nd time in a row

12 May 2026 at 15:59

Samsung continues to witness impressive sales from its new flagships, encouraging it to ramp up the output of the Galaxy S26 Ultra in May 2026.

Last month, a report surfaced claiming that the Korean tech giant had revised the production plan of the Galaxy S26 series. The modification in production numbers favored the Galaxy S26 Ultra heavily, and the pace is still high.

ZDNet reported last week that Samsung increased Galaxy S26 Ultra output, driven by the strong demand for the flagship models. It’s something different from what the supply chain expected when Samsung ramped April production.

Samsung’s May production targets for the Galaxy S26 series are estimated at:

  • 1 million units for the standard model
  • 200,000 units for the Plus model
  • 1.2 to 1.3 million units for the Ultra model

Compared to Samsung’s earlier May production forecast shared in early April:

  • Standard model: 700,000 units
  • Plus model: 200,000 to 300,000 units
  • Ultra model: 1 to 1.1 million units

Production numbers for the Standard and Ultra models have been increased slightly. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S26 Plus remains the same at around 200,000 units.

An industry source said, “At this stage, more than two months after the Galaxy S26 series launched in March, component orders would normally begin declining. However, orders have remained steady compared to earlier forecasts.”

Samsung is expected to produce around 5 million Galaxy A17 units in May. Production plans for the Galaxy A57 have been slightly reduced, with Samsung projecting an output of around 1.3 million in May, while 900,000 units of Galaxy A37.

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Samsung’s Now Bar influence is becoming impossible to ignore

12 May 2026 at 15:32

The smartphone industry has officially entered its “pill era.” Samsung saw this shift early, and the Now Bar in One UI 7 proved that lock screen interactions could become part of the experience instead of just a holding screen between unlocks.

For years, Android’s lock screen remained mostly untouched. Every major Android skin is now racing toward lock screen utility layers that do more than show notifications: music playback. live activities, delivery tracking, and quick controls.

Samsung Now Bar introduced a cleaner utility strip with proper AOD synergy and contextual awareness baked into the system UI itself. Now the rest of the market is responding, and this is where things get interesting.

OPPO’s new “Lockscreen Island” implementation inside ColorOS 16.1 is the clearest sign yet that Samsung’s blueprint is shaping Android UX trends. The now-viral @cartidise comparison video made that painfully obvious.

ColorOS 16.1 Lockscreen Island

At the same time, here’s the uncomfortable truth for Samsung fans: OPPO’s version currently feels better. The animations have elasticity, the transitions breathe; physics-based curves give the UI a sense of momentum.

Samsung’s Now Bar works well, but visually, it feels rigid next to OPPO’s fluidity. Users may not understand easing curves or frame pacing, but they absolutely notice responsiveness.

The Korean tech giant defined the “what” with Now Bar. No debate there, but OPPO is currently refining the “how” in a way Samsung cannot afford to ignore.

This should be a wake-up call heading into One UI 8.5 and beyond. Not because Samsung is losing its software identity, but because the competition is finally challenging it on finesse instead of features.

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One UI 9 Beta Program nears launch for Galaxy S26 series

12 May 2026 at 11:48

Samsung has just made a big move; the One UI 9 Beta Program is now one step closer to launch for the Galaxy S26 series. It’s big news that appeared just a few hours before Google discusses the biggest Android 17 details.

One UI 9 Beta forum goes live

Samsung has silently created (via TarunVats) a One UI 9 Beta Program landing page for the Galaxy S26 series. The dedicated forums are now available on forums in Germany, India, the UK, and the US.

These forums will be accessible throughout the Beta testing activity. Bugs and feedback reported by users will surface on the dedicated page, and users will also receive responses from moderators.

Creation of Beta forums signals that Samsung is actively working to launch the sign-up window. One UI 8.5 rollout has begun, and the next era of software is about to be kicked off.

Samsung usually brings One UI Beta to six countries, including Germany, India, Poland, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

The Beta testing may launch first in Germany, South Korea, the UK, and the US. India and Poland may join the testing phase in the second phase, when Beta 2 lands in Wave 1 countries.

Samsung Galaxy S26 One UI 9 Beta

Samsung’s One UI 9 will be based on the Android 17 operating system. Hype is high, but the software won’t initially adopt the Liquid Glass design philosophy. Android 17 isn’t adopting Apple-style design aesthetics either.

The official One UI 9 will arrive with the Z Fold 8, Z Flip 8, and Z Fold8 Wide. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S26 series may start receiving the Stable update sometime in September this year.

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Samsung explores magnetic S Pen storage inside foldable phones

12 May 2026 at 10:35

A newly discovered patent hints that Samsung may finally be exploring magnetic S Pen storage for future Galaxy foldable phones, specifically the TriFold.

According to a patent spotted by David from xleaks7, Samsung is experimenting with a Galaxy Z TriFold-like design that includes a dedicated internal magnetic compartment for the S Pen.

Samsung foldable fans have been chasing one feature for years: a properly built-in S Pen slot. The patent confirms that Galaxy users should be hopeful for stylus support in the future foldable models, but not too early.

The magnetic stylus solution that Samsung patented earlier would reportedly stay in place using magnets and charge while docked inside the phone, very similar to how the system works on the Galaxy S26 Ultra.

The patent describes a TriFold device with a dedicated cavity inside the chassis where the S Pen could slide in and recharge. Instead of relying purely on friction or clips, Samsung appears to be considering magnets to secure the stylus in place.

Samsung TriFold patent magnetic S Pen

Credit – David from xleaks7

To create enough internal space for the stylus, Samsung would reportedly narrow down the left section of the folding display. Meanwhile, that is the kind of trade-off Samsung engineers probably wrestle with every day when designing foldables.

Recent rumors have suggested Samsung wants the next-gen Galaxy Z TriFold to become thinner and lighter than the original model. But fitting an internal S Pen storage system into a thinner body sounds almost contradictory.

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Samsung took 5 Months for One UI 8.5 stable update, yet not everyone has it

12 May 2026 at 09:36

Samsung has finally started rolling out the One UI 8.5 stable update. Many Galaxy users waited a long time for this Android 16-based update, as it brings new features and improvements. However, the rollout is still in progress, and not everyone has received it yet.

How long did it take? Samsung launched the One UI 8.5 beta program on December 8, 2025. The stable version began rolling out in South Korea on May 6, 2026. This means it took about 5 months from the start of the beta to release the final stable update.

The wider global rollout started on May 11, 2026. While the stable update is now available in many countries, it is being released in phases. Many users are still waiting for their turn.

Who is getting the update and region details:

Samsung is rolling out One UI 8.5 in stages, starting with the newest and flagship devices.

  • Galaxy S25 series (all models including Edge & FE)
  • Galaxy S24 series (all models including FE)
  • Galaxy Z Fold 7 & Z Flip 7
  • Galaxy Z Fold 6 & Z Flip 6
  • Galaxy Tab S11 and Tab S10 series

The One UI 8.5 stable update rollout first started in South Korea on May 6. From May 11, it expanded to North America (US, Canada), Europe, India, Southeast Asia, Latin America, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and other major markets.

It is important to know that the rollout speed depends on your device model, carrier, and region. Some users may have to wait a few more weeks. To check for the update, go to Settings > Software update > Download and install. Make sure to back up your phone first.

FYI, the One UI 8.5 software brings a better Quick Panel, smarter Galaxy AI tools, improved performance, and other handy features. It is not a big One UI version jump, but it adds nice polish and fixes.

Even though it took 5 months, the update is finally here for many. If you haven’t received it yet, don’t worry, Samsung is expanding the rollout quickly. Keep checking your phone regularly.

Samsung One UI 8.5 oneui85

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Samsung users can now send encrypted RCS messages to iPhones

12 May 2026 at 08:42

Cross-platform RCS messaging between Android, including Samsung, and Apple iPhones is finally getting proper end-to-end encrypted privacy.

Apple and Google announced that encrypted RCS messaging is now rolling out in Beta for iPhone users running iOS 26.5 and Android, including Samsung Galaxy, users on the latest version of Google Messages.

Once enabled, messages sent between Galaxy phones and iPhones will be protected in transit, meaning nobody in the middle can read them.

For years, conversations with iPhone users often dropped back to old-school SMS behavior. Photos looked worse, reactions were messy, group chats broke easily, and privacy protections disappeared the moment a chat crossed platforms.

Users will now see a new lock icon inside supported RCS conversations, confirming that the chat is encrypted. The feature is enabled by default and will gradually expand to both new and existing conversations over time.

Google says encrypted RCS chats have already been available between Android devices for years through Google Messages. The bigger challenge was extending the same protection to iPhones.

Android Apple encrypted RCS messages

Apple still says iMessage remains the best option for communication between Apple devices. But this update finally gives Android and Samsung users a more secure and modern experience when texting someone on an iPhone.

Now, Samsung users can send high-quality photos, reactions, read receipts, and encrypted messages to iPhones without relying on outdated SMS security.

The rollout is currently limited to beta users on iOS 26.5 with supported carriers, alongside Android users running the latest Google Messages app. A wider release is expected later.

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Samsung Alarm and Timer get UI tweaks in One UI 9

12 May 2026 at 07:53

Samsung hasn’t rolled out One UI 9 Beta yet, but the leaked firmware already reveals key changes, with the latest surfacing UI tweaks of Alarm and Timer.

One UI 8.5 is a major visual overhaul, bringing Ambient Design and redesigned apps. That said, the One UI 9, based on Android 17, may largely focus on refinements. Minor tweaks across the software system are expected to be included.

As discovered by SamMobile, One UI 9 is bringing design modifications to Alarm and Timer functions. The former is getting more visible design changes compared to Timer.

Samsung Alarm in One UI 9 looks more vibrant. The interface now features larger text with extended spacing. The button featuring the cross icon has also become bigger, while the Snooze adjustment looks more unified.

On the other hand, Samsung Timer feature has fewer visible tweaks than the Alarm. The only notable change is the size of the clock text, which appears a little larger. The overall aesthetics are largely similar on the latest version.

Samsung One UI 9 Alarm Timer UI

One UI 8.5 has started rolling out to Samsung users around the world. A wider availability will take time, but Samsung may already move ahead to the next version. One UI 9 Beta may start by the end of May or the beginning of June.

Samsung’s Android 17-based One UI 9 may first arrive on the Galaxy S26 series. The firmware will officially debut with the Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8. The company may begin the official rollout sometime in September this year.

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Samsung offers up to €400 Galaxy S26 Ultra discounts in Europe

12 May 2026 at 07:15

Samsung is ramping up Galaxy S26 discounts across Europe, offering discounts of up to €400 on the S26 Ultra. The company moves early to defend its lead in shipments against growing momentum behind iPhone 17 series.

The discounts, now appearing through Samsung’s stores in several major European markets, give customers up to €200 off the standard Galaxy S26 models and as much as €400 off the Ultra variant through promotional codes.

Typically, Samsung reserves deeper incentives for later in the flagship promotional lifecycle. This time, the company appears to be accelerating its strategy early, a sign that competition at the premium end of the market is intensifying.

The strategy is clear: keep existing Galaxy users inside Samsung’s ecosystem while slowing Apple’s traction in high-value markets such as Europe, as Chosun reports.

Samsung is pairing direct discounts with trade-in bonuses and subscription-style upgrade incentives, particularly for users purchasing unlocked models.

The European campaign follows a broader push already underway in South Korea. Samsung recently extended its “Galaxy S26 Family Festa” program through the end of the month.

Samsung is reacting not only to Apple’s hardware momentum but also to changing consumer behavior in mature markets.

European buyers are holding onto devices longer, making aggressive trade-ins and early discounting increasingly important tools for driving upgrades.

Galaxy S26 Ultra remains one of the company’s most profitable smartphones, and cutting prices by up to €400 in Europe signals that maintaining market share may currently matter more than protecting premium pricing discipline.

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Before yesterdaySammy Fans

Samsung One UI 8.5 stable rolling out, One UI 9 Beta should start now

11 May 2026 at 22:06

Samsung kicked off the stable One UI 8.5 rollout on May 6. It was first available in Korea and is now spreading to other regions. The stable update rolling out to the Galaxy S25 series first, then older flagships like the S24 series, Z Fold7/Flip7, and even some tablets.

After a long beta program that lasted nearly 5 months, users are finally getting smoother animations, better battery life, fresh Galaxy AI tools like improved “Now Nudge” in the keyboard, and other important changes.

For many older Galaxy phones, it is a solid mid-cycle update. The phased rollout means not everyone has it yet, but it’s coming fast.

Moving from One UI 8.5 to the One UI 9 Beta program. Samsung should open the One UI 9 beta program right away. Samsung’s beta programs usually run 3 to 5 months. Starting One UI 9 beta now would follow the same pattern.

As per leaked information, the internal Android 17 beta testing for S26 models has already started. As per rumors, Samsung could drop public beta by late May or early June. The Galaxy S26 series launched with One UI 8.5, so the device owners are ready for the next big thing. Newer hardware handles beta bugs better anyway.

With the new beta program, you will be able to try cool new AI stuff, design changes, and improvements months before stable drops, usually around September for flagships. You might worry about another long beta program, but that’s exactly why we need it now.

The stable 8.5 rollout is great news today, but the real fun starts with the next beta. Are you planning to stick with the stable software, or are you ready to jump into the beta as soon as it’s available?

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Samsung AI Week kicks off in the US with big Galaxy and Bespoke deals

11 May 2026 at 21:55

Samsung today announced “Samsung AI Week” in the US, running from May 11 through June 7, with the spotlight squarely on Galaxy devices, connected home appliances, and AI-driven entertainment features.

Through the AI Week promo, Samsung is trying to convince buyers in the US that its hardware finally works better together. Phones, watches, TVs, earbuds, and even laundry machines are now being packaged as one giant AI ecosystem play.

At the center of the campaign sits the Galaxy S26 Ultra, paired with products like the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro.

The company says users can check AI Now Brief on the Galaxy S26 Ultra before workouts, review Energy Score and Sleep Score data, then get adjusted recommendations from Samsung’s Running Coach system.

Samsung also highlighted Gemini integration on the Galaxy Watch Ultra. The company is clearly tying this push to summer fitness trends and events like Global Running Day on June 3.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Buds4 Pro use Adaptive Noise Control with Voice Detect to lower music volume automatically when outside sounds or conversations are detected.

Samsung used the announcement to showcase its new Micro RGB TV lineup and AI-powered viewing tools aimed at sports fans.

The Korean tech giant also introduced Vision AI Companion, or VAC, which acts like an on-screen assistant during live content. The same AI treatment is coming to monitors like the Smart Monitor M8 and The Movingstyle Essential.

Samsung AI Week runs in the US until June 7 through Samsung’s official online store and participating retail channels.

Samsung AI Week US

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One UI 8.5 rollout enters its biggest phase yet, millions of Galaxy users rejoice

11 May 2026 at 21:22

One UI 8.5 rollout, which started on May 6, has entered its biggest phase yet; Samsung has made millions of Galaxy users celebrate May 11. The reason is simple: the much-awaited software has finally started to arrive.

Samsung today opened a wider One UI 8.5 rollout for various devices. Those devices have started receiving the update in South Korea first. Global rollout followed in merely four days, covering several countries worldwide.

Blessing fans around the world

One UI 8.5 update is hitting the Galaxy S25 series flagships, Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 foldables, flagship-killer S25 FE and Flip7 FE, as well as the Galaxy Z TriFold.

Stable One UI 8.5 distribution is underway for these devices worldwide, including the US:

Setting stage for the next big wave

Samsung hasn’t just brought a Korean update to the Global market, but also expanded the scope of rollout. Users in Korea having a Galaxy S24 series flagship, the Z Fold 6 or Flip 6, have also received the One UI 8.5 update.

Devices released in 2024 have joined the party today. However, the Global availability hasn’t yet been achieved, which is strategic. Users can expect the expansion this Wednesday, if any major bug/issue hits the early adopters.

One UI 9 Beta shouldn’t be delayed

With One UI 8.5 making its way to compatible devices, Samsung shouldn’t stop this pace. Android 17 will be unveiled at The Android Show tomorrow. The company should confirm the next era of One UI, the One UI 9.0.

Delaying the Android 17-based One UI 9 Beta will be dangerous for both Samsung and its fans. If the software doesn’t enter Beta testing this month, it could meet the same fate as Samsung’s One UI 7.0, One UI 8.0 and One UI 8.5.

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4 refurbished Samsung phones go on sale in India

11 May 2026 at 16:24

Samsung has officially brought its Certified Re-Newed program to India, opening the door for buyers to pick up refurbished Galaxy phones with an OEM-backed warranty and quality assurance.

The program went live on May 06, 2026, and marks Samsung’s latest attempt to strengthen its presence in India’s growing refurbished smartphone segment. The direct-to-consumer push covers both flagship and mid-range devices.

Unlike third-party refurbishing channels, Samsung is positioning the offering around trust, after-sales assurance, and long-term software support.

Here’s the full list of devices currently available under the program in India:

  • Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (256GB): INR 97,499
  • Samsung Galaxy S25 (256GB): INR 58,749
  • Samsung Galaxy A56 (8GB + 256GB): INR 31,499
  • Samsung Galaxy A56 (12GB + 256GB): INR 32,749
  • Samsung Galaxy A36 (128GB): INR 23,249
  • Samsung Galaxy A36 (256GB): INR 24,499

According to the info, every Certified Re-Newed device goes through a detailed in-house refurbishment process. That includes hardware inspection, functional testing, software validation, and complete data wiping before resale.

Samsung says all units are restored using genuine parts and shipped in fresh retail packaging. There’s also a standard one-year manufacturer warranty included with every phone, same as a new Galaxy device.

At present, four devices are available, but the portfolio will expand further over the period. The refurbished Galaxy lineup is now available through Samsung India and the Samsung Shop app across the country.

Samsung Galaxy S and Z phones

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Galaxy S24 users on One UI 8.0 get One UI 8.5 official update

11 May 2026 at 14:44

Samsung Galaxy S24 series is getting One UI 8.5 update, following the Beta-bound models. The company started Beta Program in select countries, but not every user joined the early testing phase and waited for Stable release.

The update first debuted with the Galaxy S26 lineup earlier this year, and now Samsung’s 2024 flagship phones are joining the party with a wave of new Galaxy AI features, smoother animations, and several improvements.

The rollout is currently live in South Korea, where Galaxy S24 users are receiving the stable DZDP (4.5GB) firmware. Users who stayed on One UI 8.0, skipping Beta, are getting the update, though the OTA package is noticeably larger in size.

One UI 8.5 is not a dramatic redesign

Samsung has focused heavily on polish, responsiveness, performance, multitasking, and AI-powered utilities. Several Galaxy AI features introduced with the Galaxy S26 lineup are now expanding to older flagships.

The update also improves system animations, Quick Panel customization, cross-device continuity, battery optimization, and multitasking behavior. Samsung refined various stock apps including Gallery, Phone, Clock, Samsung Keyboard, and My Files.

Global expansion is expected to happen gradually over the next few days, with markets like India, Europe, the US, and other Asian regions likely next in line. Samsung already confirmed broader regional expansion after the Korea debut.

If you own a Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, or Galaxy S24 Ultra, you can manually check for the update by heading to:

  • Settings > Software update > Download and install.
Samsung One UI 8.5

Source – Samsung

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Stable One UI 8.5 rollout starts for the Galaxy S24 FE

11 May 2026 at 13:54

Samsung’s Galaxy S24 FE begins picking up its Android 16-based One UI 8.5 update. Initially dropped in South Korea, the Stable update should soon become a Global affair.

The Galaxy S24 FE joins Samsung’s growing list of devices receiving the stable One UI 8.5. Earlier, the company released One UI 8.5 for the Galaxy S25 series, while the Galaxy S24, S24+, and S24 Ultra also began getting the update in Korea.

One UI 8.5 Beta arrived for the Galaxy S24 lineup back in March. After multiple Beta releases, the company is now pushing the finalized stable firmware. The Galaxy S24 FE is among the latest additions to exit the beta phase.

The rollout is currently limited to Beta participants in Korea. Samsung has already confirmed wider availability for regions including Europe, India, North America, Latin America, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, and Taiwan over the next few days.

One UI 8.5 introduces a cleaner interface, smoother animations, redesigned Samsung apps, and deeper customization controls. Samsung is also bringing several AI improvements that originally debuted with the Galaxy S26 series.

These include upgraded writing tools, smarter communication features, enhanced photo editing capabilities, better content suggestions, improved Bixby interactions, and refined ecosystem sharing tools.

Galaxy S24 FE users can manually check for the update by heading to:

  • Settings > Software update > Download and install

The firmware is expected to be fairly large, especially for users upgrading directly from One UI 8.0 builds, so using a stable Wi-Fi connection and ensuring enough battery charge is recommended before installation.

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Samsung Galaxy S24 receives Stable One UI 8.5 update (Beta closed)

11 May 2026 at 13:10

Samsung has finally kicked off the official One UI 8.5 rollout for the Galaxy S24 series. The latest software update, which first debuted with the Galaxy S26 Ultra lineup earlier this year, is now making its way to Samsung’s 2024 flagships.

One UI 8.5 official rollout began on May 6 in South Korea, with Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra users now joining the stable release wave.

Samsung already confirmed that the update will gradually expand to more markets over the next few days, including India, Europe, North America, Southeast Asia, and Latin America.

The company spent the past few months running an extensive One UI 8.5 Beta Program. The Beta initially started with the Galaxy S25 lineup before expanding to the Galaxy S24 series in March.

One UI 8.5 is more than just a regular maintenance update. Samsung is bringing several Galaxy AI features introduced with the Galaxy S26 series to older flagship devices.

Some of the headline additions include upgraded Bixby capabilities, AI Call Screening, live voicemail transcription, improved Photo Assist tools, and better cross-device experiences with Quick Share and My Files. Samsung also refined animations, polished the interface, and improved battery optimization.

For Galaxy S24 users currently running the Beta version, the stable One UI 8.5 DZDP build arrives as a smaller patch update. Meanwhile, users upgrading directly from One UI 8.0 can expect a much larger OTA package.

To download the update, head to Settings > Software update > Download and install on your Galaxy S24 device. Since Samsung rolls out firmware in phases, availability may vary depending on region and carrier.

Galaxy S24 One UI 8.5 Stable Rollout

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One UI 8.5 for Galaxy Z TriFold now live in more countries

11 May 2026 at 13:00

Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold foldable phone joined the One UI 8.5 update party with plenty of 2025 flagship devices.

Galaxy Z TriFold is Samsung’s first dual-folding phone, released in select countries. The company has reportedly produced and sold around 30,000 units worldwide. The sale of the iconic device has ended in Korea and the US.

Samsung shipped the Galaxy Z TriFold with Android 16-based One UI 8, with the new One UI 8.5 elevating the experience. It feels like a mid-cycle update, but the reality is different; you get plenty of ways to improve your experience.


Update [11/05/2026]

Following the initial release on May 6, Samsung has now started the One UI 8.5 update’s rollout to the Galaxy Z TriFold smartphone in the Global market.


What’s new

One UI 8.5 feels tailor-made for a tri-fold device, especially with its deeply customizable Quick Panel. This flexibility becomes crucial on a triple-fold layout, where screen zones can behave like separate workspaces.

Samsung’s UI redesign also leans into multi-panel usability, with bottom-placed search bars and simplified navigation icons improving one-handed reach. This shift helps maintain usability whether you’re using one, two, or all three panels at once.

Galaxy AI is expected to play a bigger role here, with smarter task prediction, AI summaries, and enhanced photo editing tools. This could translate into real multitasking gains, like editing content on one panel while AI suggestions update on another.

Visual changes in core apps such as Gallery, Phone, and Clock bring cleaner layouts and icon-driven navigation. Privacy and cross-device features also get upgrades, including better protection for shared images

For a tri-fold flagship, these changes position One UI 8.5 as a bridge between phone, tablet, and PC-like experiences in a single device.

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Stable One UI 8.5 arrives for Galaxy Z Fold 6, Fold SE and Flip 6; Beta Program is over

11 May 2026 at 12:47

Samsung has officially ended the One UI 8.5 Beta Program for the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6, and the stable update is now rolling out. The rollout has started in Korea, with more regions expected to follow within the next few days.

Update | Just a few hours after the initial drop, Samsung started releasing One UI 8.5 to the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition in Korea. Additionally, users of Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 who stayed on One UI 8.0 have aslo received the OTA.

After weeks of testing, Samsung has now pushed the stable One UI 8.5 update to the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6. The release marks the first major foldable software upgrade after Samsung debuted One UI 8.5 alongside the S26 series.

The company opened the Beta program shortly after unveiling the S26 lineup, giving foldable users early access to new features and UI tweaks. Now that the beta phase is over, Samsung is shifting to a wider public rollout.

As usual, South Korea is getting the update first. Samsung typically expands stable One UI releases to the US, Europe, India, and other global markets shortly after the initial rollout begins, so wider availability should not take long.

One UI 8.5 is not a dramatic visual overhaul, but it introduces several useful changes that first appeared on the S26 series. Samsung focused heavily on polish, smarter multitasking, and AI-powered features across the system.

How to download the One UI 8.5 update

Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 users can check for the update manually by heading to:

  • Settings > Software update > Download and install

Since the rollout is happening in phases, the update may not appear immediately for all users.

Stable One UI 8.5 update - Galaxy Z Fold 6

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Galaxy S25 FE’s One UI 8.5 update rolling out globally

11 May 2026 at 12:35

Samsung’s Galaxy S25 FE seems to have started getting the Stable One UI 8.5 update globally. The release first dropped in South Korea last week. Now, users in India are reporting the availability of the firmware, confirming expansion.

Galaxy S25 FE getting the major One UI 8.5 globally is a significant development. The update elevates the entire user experience with key design changes, system optimization and extra new features from the new flagships.

Samsung put the Galaxy S25 FE in the first wave, which is benefiting its buyers. The Fan Edition phone is getting the flagship-level treatment. Not many features are reserved for the latest flagship, with FE also having most.

The company has recently released the update for the Galaxy S25 series. Users of the Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 are also getting the One UI 8.5. It remains to be seen whether second wave kicks off in South Korea today or takes some time.

How to download and install

First, swipe up to open the app drawer where you get Settings icon. Access system Settings and scroll up to reach the Software update menu. Tap Download and install to establish a connection with the software server.

The stable update is safe to install on your device. Meanwhile, creating a backup prior to installation is always recommended. Utilize the temporary cloud backup to avoid any potential loss of data if the firmware is broken.

Samsung Galaxy S25 FE One UI 8.5 Update

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Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 receive One UI 8.5 in Global markets

11 May 2026 at 11:47

One UI 8.5 starts releasing for Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 in the Global markets. As scheduled, Samsung has started to expand the availability, with Beta participants getting priority access, starting in India.

On May 6, Samsung announced that the Global One UI 8.5 rollout will begin on May 11, with the promise being fulfilled as the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 join the BZDP update party, moments after the Galaxy S25 series.

While the Global rollout has begun, you may not immediately see the update. The expansion is gradual, and a broader availability takes time. The pace of spread will be decided depending on the reliability of the firmware.

Galaxy S25 series, including the S25 Edge, is also getting the update outside Korea. More devices to follow include the Galaxy S25 FE and Galaxy Z TriFold. You may also see the update for the Galaxy Tab S11 series today.

The first wave was completed in South Korea, with the second wave including devices from the year 2024. Users of the Galaxy S24 series, S24 FE, Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 should also receive the major update over the next few days.

How to download and install

  • From the Settings screen, scroll to and select Software update, then select Download and install.
  • The system will automatically check for updates.
    • If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to perform the update.
    • If an update is not available, select the back arrow.

If you are on Beta, the update size will be smaller than others. The reason is most of the changes and features are already available in Beta. For users climbing from One UI 8.0 to One UI 8.5, the update size will be significant.

Galaxy Z Fold 7 One UI 8.5 Stable Update India

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Galaxy S25’s One UI 8.5 Stable update expands to India, Europe and Canada

11 May 2026 at 11:41

Samsung is expanding the stable One UI 8.5 rollout for the Galaxy S25 series to more markets. After debuting in South Korea earlier this week, the update is now reaching users in India, Canada, Europe, and several other global regions.

The Android 16-based firmware arrives after months of Beta testing and marks Samsung’s first major software refresh for the Galaxy S25 lineup since launch.

Samsung’s Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, Galaxy S25 Ultra, and even the Galaxy S25 Edge are now gradually receiving the stable One UI 8.5 build.

Software rollout info:

  • India [B] – Beta to Stable
  • Canada [W] – Stable
  • Europe [B] – Beta to Stable

One UI 8.5 introduces a refined interface with smoother system animations, upgraded Quick Panel customization, improved multitasking, enhanced battery optimization, and several AI-powered additions borrowed from the S26 series.

Users are getting smarter communication tools, upgraded Bixby natural language processing, improved Photo Assist capabilities, better file sharing through Quick Share, and new creative AI experiences across supported Galaxy devices.

However, not every Galaxy S26-exclusive feature has made its way to the Galaxy S25 series. Reports suggest that features like Now Nudge and some AI-powered notification prioritization tools are still missing from the stable release.

Samsung officially started the One UI 8.5 stable rollout in South Korea on May 6. The company later confirmed that markets including the US, India, Europe, Canada, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Taiwan would follow shortly after.

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Galaxy S25 Edge gets One UI 8.5 update in the US

11 May 2026 at 10:16

Samsung has finally kicked off the official One UI 8.5 rollout for the Galaxy S25 Edge in the US, marking the beginning of the software’s wider global expansion after its initial debut in South Korea last week.

The update first went live on May 6 in Samsung’s home market, and now US users are starting to receive the stable firmware (S937USQU6CZDP) as part of the second phase of the rollout.

This release is particularly notable because Samsung skipped the public Beta Program for the Galaxy S25 Edge. Samsung appears to have finalized the software quietly after extensive internal testing and its Korea-first deployment strategy.

While Galaxy S25 series users participated in One UI 8.5 Beta testing over the past few months, owners of the S25 Edge are jumping straight from One UI 8.0 to the stable One UI 8.5 build.

Built on Android 16, the update introduces a refreshed interface with smoother animations, redesigned system elements, upgraded Quick Panel customization, and several Galaxy AI enhancements.

Users are getting features such as improved natural language processing in Bixby, smarter communication tools, new lock screen customization, and advanced Galaxy AI functions, including Call Screening and Creative Studio.

Samsung initially started the One UI 8.5 rollout in Korea on May 6, but the company had already confirmed that North America, India, Europe, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and other global markets would follow shortly after.

The US rollout now confirms that Samsung’s wider expansion phase is officially underway. You can also manually check by heading to Settings > Software update > Download and install on your device.

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Global One UI 8.5 rollout begins for Galaxy S25 series in the US

11 May 2026 at 09:10

Samsung begins the Global rollout of the One UI 8.5 update to the Galaxy S25 series. Initially released in South Korea, the software is now making its way to more regions, starting in the United States.

One UI 8.5 update is an important moment for the users of the Galaxy S25 series in the Global market, as it introduces a more refined design language and a plethora of new features.

Samsung is sequentially rolling out the CZDP (4.4GB) update to the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra. Global availability has started, but a broader (international) one may take some time, probably hours, days, and even weeks.

One UI 8.5 brings select new features from the Galaxy S26 series. Owners are aware of the additions during the Beta testing activity. Features that are missing include Now Nudge as well as AI-powered Notification Prioritise and Summarise.

What I like the most is Quick Share to AirDrop connection, which ends the sharing frustration. Sharing files across Android and Apple devices has become simpler than before, thanks to the upgraded Quick Share application.

How to download and install

  • From a Home screen, touch and swipe up or down to display all apps, tap Settings > Software update.
  • If your device finds a new software update, tap Download now.
  • When complete, a screen will appear advising you that the new software version is ready to be installed; tap Install update.
  • The device will power down and power back on. A screen will appear stating that the installation has been completed. Tap OK.

Global Galaxy S25 One UI 8.5 update US

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Samsung refrigerators in the US get AI Vision with Gemini, new Bixby and Now Brief

11 May 2026 at 07:05

Samsung is giving its Bespoke AI refrigerators in the US a meaningful software lift, adding features like AI Vision with Google’s Gemini, more capable Bixby and Now Brief.

Starting May 11, select Family Hub models are receiving a major update that folds in smarter AI Vision recognition powered by Gemini, a more conversational Bixby experience, and a broader Now Brief personalization layer.

AI Vision, new Bixby, Now Brief and more

Samsung says the upgraded AI Vision system can now recognize far more grocery items than before. New cloud-based intelligence and OCR support allow the fridge to identify branded products by reading packaging labels.

Samsung is also leaning harder into predictive grocery tracking. The refrigerator can monitor frequently used items and nudge users when supplies are likely running low.

Bixby is also getting a long overdue overhaul. Instead of rigid voice commands, Samsung wants interactions to feel more conversational.

  • Users can simply ask for “round ice for my drink,” and Bixby will activate Sphere Ice mode automatically.
  • The assistant is shown setting a cooling routine based on outdoor temperatures after a back-and-forth conversation.

The Now Brief is becoming more personalized, too. The refrigerator display can now surface recipe videos, ingredient-based meal suggestions, and cooking recommendations generated from foods already inside the fridge.

Samsung is also expanding Voice ID support, allowing Family Hub to recognize individual household members and show personalized reminders, calendars, health summaries, and even interest-based news.

Availability and expansion

The rollout starts in the US today for supported Bespoke AI Family Hub refrigerators. Samsung says the update will expand to 9-inch AI Home displays and more global markets gradually through 2026.

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Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Family Festa is now more appealing

11 May 2026 at 06:33

Samsung fans who were still sitting on the fence now have a little more time to jump in. Better yet, Samsung is sweetening the Galaxy S26 Family Festa promotion in South Korea, expanding the schedule and adding extra perks.

The company has officially extended its “Galaxy S26 Family Festa” campaign through May 31 after seeing strong customer interest since the promo kicked off on April 23.

Samsung is also adding fresh rewards and extra perks for Galaxy S26 buyers, making the offer far more attractive for Samsung enthusiasts planning an upgrade this month.

Customers who purchase and activate a Galaxy S26 series device between April 23 and May 31 will continue receiving a 50,000 won game item discount coupon that works through Galaxy Store.

Samsung is also introducing a new review event.

Buyers who share their Galaxy S26 experience on social media can enter for a chance to win prizes, including two CJ integrated gift cards worth 100,000 won and Starbucks e-card vouchers worth 30,000 won.

Throughout May, customers purchasing an unlocked Galaxy S26 model and joining the “New Galaxy AI Subscription Club” can get an additional trade-in bonus of up to 100,000 won on top of the standard trade-in value.

Samsung’s subscription club bundles several useful perks together, including up to 50% guaranteed residual value, Samsung Care+ damage coverage, and discounts on accessories.

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Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Wide Fold case leak reveals subtle design tweaks

10 May 2026 at 21:46

Samsung is expected to unveil three foldable phones this July. Recently, we’ve seen leaked third-party cases of the Wide Fold. A new case leak surfaced today sheds light on subtle design tweaks of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Wide Fold.

Insider IceUniverse posted a clip showcasing third-party case covers of Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Fold8 Wide.

The video shows Galaxy Z Fold 7 fitted inside the protective case of the Galaxy Z Fold 8. The camera module appears to have a slightly different alignment. The bottom part may also witness minor changes driven by dimensions.

That said, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 might be familiar to the Fold 7. The company has mastered design in the last year’s foldable model. The focus seems to have shifted to refining the performance and other aspects like battery.

The clip also features case of the Galaxy Z Fold8 Wide. The hands-on experience shows a passport-sized back cover of the device. It also confirms the camera module, featuring dual sensors aligned with an LED flash at the bottom.

Leaks are going to intensify as we approach the July launch window. A supply chain report revealed that the Unpacked event might be held on July 22. The company may be shifting the event from the US to the UK, probably London.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold8 Wide case leak

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Galaxy S27 Ultra price increase looks inevitable

10 May 2026 at 21:15

This year brought major problems for Samsung’s mobile business, and the next year may not be different either, which subsequenty result into a price increase for the Galaxy S27 Ultra.

The entire tech industry is witnessing an AI boom, with generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) dominating every area of the tech landscape. This boom has created a massive business for memory makers, including Samsung and its rival SK Hynix. Both of these have shifted their current production lines to High Bandwidth Memory (HBM), a high-speed memory for AI data centers and a high-profit maker product.

Since memory makers have diverted production from DRAM to HBM, a crisis for DRAM has appeared across the globe. Smartphone makers, including Samsung and Apple, are facing unease in memory supplies. Due to low production, both demand and prices have increased compared to last year.

Released in late February, Samsung decided to give a price bump for the S26 Plus but decided to keep the base Ultra variant at the previous tag. However, the prices for higher storage have increased by up to $140.

Samsung hasn’t mentioned the price hike for this year’s launch, but this is directly influenced by the memory bill.

For the Galaxy S27 series, Samsung will be using the Snapdragon 8 Gen 6, coupled with LPDDR6 memory. Both of these will be produced with an advanced process, which means a higher component bill. The option here would be for Samsung to go for LPDDR5 to save some cost, but we’ll have to see how it plays out.

Mobile Division loss

While Samsung is creating record profits with its AI chip sales, the mobile division is expecting its first annual loss since the launch of the MX division. Roh Tae-Moon has warned of an upcoming downturn in the business despite strong sales of the Galaxy S26 series.

He previously said that the global rush to build AI infrastructure is taking away smartphone memory chip supplies, pushing the company to increase prices. And more is yet to come.

Future

The RAM and other supplies are likely to see more problems in 2027. So, the situation is likely to get even worse for smartphone makers, and maintaining the prices will get even harder, especially for Samsung. The Korean company somehow offset the damage in early 2026, but it won’t be able to do the same in the year ahead.

Eventually, all factors indicate that Samsung will have to increase the price for the Galaxy S27 Ultra if the situation doesn’t improve.

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Dua Lipa accuses Samsung of using her likeness to influence TV buyers

10 May 2026 at 17:23

Dua Lipa has filed a $15 million lawsuit against Samsung. The famous singer and songwriter accused Samsung of using her image on TV boxes without permission in a campaign that allegedly helped drive consumer purchases.

The complaint by Dua Lipa was filed Friday in the Central District of California and centers on Samsung TV boxes that allegedly featured a backstage photograph of the singer taken during the 2024 Austin City Limits Festival.

According to the filing, Lipa never approved the use of the image and was not compensated for it. The lawsuit argues that Samsung used Lipa’s likeness in a broad retail marketing push tied to its television business.

The filing claims Samsung placed her image directly on cardboard TV boxes distributed to consumers beginning last year. Lipa’s legal team says the placement created the impression that she endorsed Samsung TVs.

The complaint states she had “no say, control, or input whatsoever” regarding the campaign.

The suit also claims the singer attempted to stop the use of the image after learning about it, but Samsung allegedly refused to comply. Court documents describe the company’s response as “dismissive and callous.”

Lipa is alleging copyright infringement tied to the photograph itself. The complaint also raises claims under the federal Lanham Act, which governs false endorsement and trademark-related disputes in the US.

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One UI 9.5 rollout is already looking bleak

10 May 2026 at 16:38

Amid the One UI 8.5 rollout expansion, we are already seeing signs of One UI 9.5. Unfortunately, the current situation isn’t drawing a promising picture of its official release.

For the past few years, Samsung has made major changes to the One UI software. In that case, it is focusing on releasing new software with a flagship phone, for example, One UI 8.5 with the Galaxy S26 series, and making existing phone users wait for the expansion.

Notably, the One UI 8.5 beta program has become the longest ever One UI testing phase. On May 6, 2026, Samsung released stable One UI 8.5 for the Galaxy S25 series in Korea, but the global users are scheduled to get this update later.

Basically, the rollout comes in almost 5 months for Korean users and 5+ months for global users. You know that’s where the problem lies, Samsung’s low-grade development and slow speed have made the program frustrating for even testers.

Another key reason is that the update is missing major additions. Despite bringing new AI features such as call screening, Samsung has held back major improvements like notifications highlight and Now Nudge from the Galaxy S25 update.

One UI 9.5

In the meantime, A new leak has revealed Samsung’s software update development plan, including One UI 9.0 and 9.5. You should know that this update will be based on Android 17. The first recipients of the One UI 9.0 will be the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Flip 8, and WideFold. On the other hand, the One UI 9.5, based on launch tradition, will be unveiled with the Galaxy S27 series, releasing early 2027.

We can expect the One UI 9.5 beta to rollout in December for the Galaxy S26 series, but that’s where the long wait will kick off. The wait for One UI 8.5 expanded farther than expected, and what if Samsung does the same for its successor? It means the update should be dropping in May 2027, if not delayed further. However, we cannot deny the possibility of an earlier release. Yet, Samsung’s track record on software update rollout is declining each year.

On the other hand, what features will remain exclusive to the S27 series and will not come to the S26 series? That’s another important question due for the One UI 9.5 release.

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A user accidentally dropped Galaxy S26 Ultra, and it did not go well

10 May 2026 at 12:58

A Galaxy S26 Ultra user has shared an unfortunate story that their device was dropped on the floor, sustaining some damage even while using a case.

A user named Bradly revealed that his father has recently dropped the Galaxy S26 Ultra on the floor. The images confirmed that the phone has sustained damage on the bottom side of the frame. The user mentioned that the Galaxy S26 Ultra comes with an aluminum frame, which could be the reason that the flagship has been damaged.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra fell on the ground and sustained damage

Many of the users come up with a similar experience in the comment section, where the phone paint chipped off after falling on the floor. That’s not it; some of the iPhone 17 Pro users also confirmed that they had the paint problem as the device slipped to the ground. Some are calling aluminium too soft to withstand the damage impact, and the titanium would have been far better.

With the Galaxy S24 Ultra, Samsung introduced a titanium frame, which offers improved durability and better design. The phone maker carried the frame with the Galaxy S25 Ultra. However, the Galaxy S26 Ultra reverted to Aluminum. Some objected to the move, and some welcomed the change due to improved color options.

Samsung’s decision to return to Aluminum is closely aligned with Apple, which also said goodbye to the titanium frame with the iPhone 17 Pro series, released last year. This change brought a more refined design, space for a bigger battery, and improved heat dissipation.

However, Samsung didn’t say anything about this, no reason whatsoever, they just made this change. Of course, aluminum is not as strong as titanium, but it is still slightly cheaper than titanium and takes less processing in production. It’s unconfirmed whether Samsung will return the titanium design with future iterations.

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A big week ahead for Samsung One UI 9.0

10 May 2026 at 10:54

Google is hosting the Android Show I/O Edition next week, and we may get new information about One UI 9.0 at the same time.

For starters, The Android Show: I/O Edition is a special Google Android live event, which highlights the upcoming Android update before a full release at the Google I/O conference. This year’s Android Show will air on Tuesday, May 12.

Google has announced that Android is about to get a redesign, which many of the users anticipated, highly inspired by Apple’s Liquid Glass design for iOS devices. That made many from the Samsung community speculate the same for One UI 9.0, which will be based on Android 17.

However, Google’s President of Android Ecosystem has denied these rumors, saying that the new update won’t follow any other operating system. Since Android 17’s liquid glass is out of question, we’ll have to move to another topic.

Last year, Minseok Kang, VP and Head of Smartphone Planning at Samsung Electronics, appeared in a dedicated clip to talk about collaboration with Google. He also teased the Android 16 update for Galaxy devices for the first time at the showcase.

The Android Show I/O 2026

Since Samsung is Google’s biggest Android ecosystem partner, it is likely to participate in Google’s 2026 version of I/O showcase. That said, we’ll be getting a confirmation about the Android 17-based One UI 9.0 update announcement.

However, we aren’t keeping our hopes too high because the Samsung official may limit words to Android 17 and Gemini AI features in the pre-recorded clip.

On the other hand, test builds of the One UI 9.0 beta have already surfaced on the Samsung firmware server. It indicates that the company is ready to initiate the beta program for the Galaxy Sw6 series. However, Samsung has yet to announce the beta campaign launch.

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One UI 8.5 stable released but not for all

10 May 2026 at 07:51

Earlier this week, Samsung released One UI 8.5 for Galaxy S25 series users, ending months-long wait created by the beta program, but it is still limited to Korea.

Besides, the S25 series, Fold 7, and Flip 7, alongside TriFold, also received the stable update. In fact, the S25 Edge, which wasn’t included in the beta program, also received the update.

Samsung has been testing the One UI 8.5 update for the S25 lineup since December. The company expanded the program a few times and added top flagships. However, the rollout delay disappointed many users.

The biggest surprise was the zero transparency. Samsung shared no prior information about the stable update schedule. Following the first official release, the company jumped to its Newsroom website and published a press release in all regions.

Despite keeping the release limited to the home market, Samsung finally made a pre-release announcement of the global expansion. Still, it didn’t commit to any specific date, so you, users, keep on wondering when your device will receive the update.

As for the leaks and rumors, Samsung may send One UI 8.5 for all Galaxy S25 series users on Monday, May 11. However, the phone maker has proved all previous rollout dates wrong. So, it’s better to wait for the official release rather than believing in speculations.

You should know that the stable One UI 8.5 will be released as a small downloadable patch for beta participants and a full-size OTA update, weighing nearly 4.5GB for One UI 8.0 users. Those who are looking forward to this update should keep some important things in mind.

  • Though the update won’t delete any data, it’s suggested that you back up important data to prevent accidental file loss.
  • Use Wi-Fi to download the full OTA
  • Don’t interact with the phone during the update installation
  • Leave the phone for a few minutes once the update installs to settle all background processes

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One UI 8.5 and One UI 9 news cycle to intensify next week

9 May 2026 at 23:17

The next week of May could kick off an intensifying news cycle of Samsung’s One UI 8.5 and One UI 9.0 software versions.

Samsung is set to expand the One UI 8.5 rollout next week, and Google’s The Android Show could bring in some juicy information about One UI 9.

One UI 8.5

Samsung started One UI 8.5 official rollout on May 6. At the same time, the company confirmed a Global expansion is scheduled for May 11. Devices that have received an update in South Korea will get it in even more regions.

The list includes the Galaxy S25 series, S25 Edge, S25 FE, Galaxy Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7, Flip7 FE, and Galaxy Z TriFold. Users of these devices, outside Korea, should be ready to grab the major One UI 8.5 software upgrade.

If Samsung goes beyond, flagship devices released in 2024 may start getting the One UI 8.5 upgrade in South Korea. If it happens, users in the Global market will have to wait for a few days to get the software update.

One UI 9.0

Samsung’s Android 17-based One UI 9 is also under development. The company is testing Beta firmware internally, ahead of giving it to users. Google’s The Android Show is scheduled for May 12 and we’re expecting some details from Samsung.

Last year, Google’s The Android Show dedicated to Android 16 brought initial information on the One UI 8. The company also confirmed that the software will make its debut earlier than usual, starting in the second half.

This year, the One UI 9 will debut with the Galaxy Z8 series in July. With The Android 17 Show approaching, Google and Samsung may have been preparing to make an official announcement regarding One UI 9.

You may like:

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Mother’s Day Galaxy S26 Ultra deal adds $100 credit on top of $200 savings

9 May 2026 at 22:37

Samsung wants you to save up to $300 on the Galaxy S26 Ultra as part of its 2026 Mother’s Day deal in the US.

Galaxy S26 Ultra is Samsung’s most powerful flagship smartphone. It comes with the fastest chipset, a compelling camera, and intelligent AI capabilities. The company is promoting it as the top deal this Mother’s Day.

Samsung has cut straight $200 on all memory variants of the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Be it the base 256GB or the most expensive 1TB model, you get a $200 discount. What makes it more appealing is the $100 credit for an extra purchase.

Galaxy S26 Ultra can be yours for $1,099 for the 256GB version. If you raise the budget by $200, you get the 512GB version, which is practically the best. If your storage needs are higher, go for the 1TB version, which costs $1,599.

As part of the Mother’s Day deal, Samsung has spiked the cash benefits for users. The US website is offering a $100 Samsung Credit. There are three options, including a $30 Clear Case, a Buds 4 Pro, or the Watch Ultra.

You can bundle a Clear Case, which costs nothing, literally, with the smartphone. If you want to utilize the full bonus, you need to bundle the $250 Galaxy Buds 4 Pro for $125 or the $650 Galaxy Watch Ultra for $585.

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Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide protective case leak hints at design changes

9 May 2026 at 19:24

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide foldable phone is getting closer to launch, and before that, the phone’s protective case has allegedly leaked online.

Tipster IceUniverse has shared images of the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide listing from Alibaba, an online marketplace. The tipster shared two types of cases: one is transparent, and the other could be silicone.

The rear side has a vertical pill-shaped opening on the top left, and the other half is completely open, covering only the bezels around the secondary display. The right side has a power key cutout for an in-built fingerprint sensor.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 wide protective case leak

The main thing about this foldable is its design, a wide outlook, wider than the Galaxy Z Fold 8, but smaller in overall height. The phone will be using the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, and it will be the first to bring One UI 9.0 (Android 17) out of the box. Samsung might announce some new AI features in partnership with Google at the launch stage.

Based on the previous information, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide will feature a dual camera setup on the back. One of these is a 200MP main camera, and the other is ultra-wide angle.

Besides, the protective case leak, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide will launch with the Z Fold 8 and Flip 8 in the Unpacked event in the second half of this year.

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Samsung allegedly making Holographic display for Spatial iPhone

9 May 2026 at 16:36

Samsung Display is apparently working on a Holographic display technology, with Apple expected to be the initial consumer for its Spatial iPhone.

A new report from Schrodinger (via AndroidHeadlines) has surfaced details about a Samsung project codenamed MH1, which is a holographic display.

Samsung is building innovative display technology for Apple’s next conceptual leap, but step back, and it makes total sense. These two companies have been swapping money and components for years.

The upcoming iPhone Ultra is already expected to ship with a flexible OLED panel sourced straight from Samsung Display. So Apple tapping Samsung for holographic glass isn’t scandalous; it’s just business.

Well, the project MH1 is currently sitting in phase one of R&D. Samsung hasn’t even cleared the foundational research stage yet. If this technology ever reaches commercial production, we’re looking at 2030 at the earliest.

Samsung has pulled off technically ambitious things before. The foldable display market was a punchline until the Galaxy Z Fold stopped being one.

If the MH1 project somehow reaches a point where the holographic layer is sharp, intuitive, and private, that changes the conversation entirely.

Right now, MH1 is a codename on a whiteboard somewhere in Samsung’s lab. Apple’s spatial iPhone is a rumor wrapped inside a concept and 2030 is a long time to wait for something that might never ship.

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Canceled Galaxy S25 reservations spark massive fine

9 May 2026 at 15:52

Korea Communications Commission, better known as the KCC, has imposed a 640 million won fine on KT after the operator canceled thousands of Galaxy S25 reservations that customers believed were already secured.

Samsung’s Galaxy S25 pre-order campaign has now turned into a cautionary tale for Korean carriers. This was not a small promotional mishap in South Korea, but a breakdown in carrier oversight during 2025’s biggest launches.

The controversy dates back to the Galaxy S25 pre-order, when KT promoted aggressive reservation benefits. Customers were told they would receive event perks unless a separate notice announced the promotion had ended.

KT later claimed an employee’s mistake caused the omission of a key condition. The carrier stated that the promotion was limited to the first 1,000 customers, but that restriction was accidentally left out during the campaign rollout.

Instead of dealing with a few disputed orders, KT ended up canceling 7,127 Galaxy S25 reservations after users had already completed identity verification and payment registration.

The KCC concluded that KT violated Article 50 of South Korea’s Telecommunications Business Act, specifically provisions tied to misleading promotions and consumer harm, via BusinessPost.

The commission determined that KT attracted users through false or exaggerated notices while also restricting subscriptions. Regulators were critical of the mismatch between the promotion and the hidden customer cap.

Korean telecom regulators rarely issue major penalties over isolated customer complaints. A 640 million won sanction signals that the KCC viewed this as systemic conduct serious enough to warrant public corrective action.

KCC Chairman Kim Jong-cheol said regulators would strengthen oversight against false notices, exaggerated promotions, and omissions of important information during mobile subscription campaigns. For Korean carriers preparing for future Galaxy launches, the warning is now very public.

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Galaxy S27 might drop premium Samsung display

9 May 2026 at 14:39

Samsung might finally be ready to do something with the Galaxy S27 lineup that once felt almost impossible inside the company walls: let BOE into the flagship OLED display club.

I have been covering Samsung’s display sourcing drama since the Galaxy Note 20 and S21 days, and BOE has been hovering around the Galaxy S supply chain for a long time now.

Every year, Samsung Display keeps its iron grip, but this time feels different, as the economics are impossible to ignore right now.

According to SigmaIntel’s latest OLED shipment report, via Korean ZDNet, Chinese panel makers are actively trying to secure OLED supply for Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S series, particularly the standard models.

While the report avoids naming names directly, industry chatter points straight at BOE. Meanwhile, CSOT has already managed to get its foot in the door through the Galaxy A57.

Samsung Electronics wants cheaper panels. Samsung Display wants to protect its dominance. That is the real tug-of-war here. Chinese OLED makers are throwing flexible OLED panels into the market at extremely aggressive prices.

The Korean display maker still controls roughly 99% of Galaxy OLED supply. Weakening its Galaxy monopoly could create ripple effects far beyond Samsung phones. That is why BOE has repeatedly failed to secure final approval.

BOE has been aggressively targeting Samsung and Apple for years because landing flagship supply contracts changes perception overnight. Supplying panels for cheaper phones is one thing. Getting inside a Galaxy S device is prestigious.

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Samsung brings Device Care app an actually useful feature

9 May 2026 at 11:08

Apps and games are vital to the user experience on smartphones. Advertisements are the primary source of income for most apps, but Samsung is making sure, through Device Care, that excessive ads won’t ruin the user experience.

Samsung has a new Device Care app update for Galaxy users, which adds an actually useful feature. Users can now switch on the newly added toggle to block apps with excessive ads; a practical addition to the application.

Users are generally OK with appropriate ad placements. Things start to worsen once the quota of ads surpasses an understandable limit. Continuous ads can’t let the experience be optimal; their blockage is preferred instead.

The new feature has been added in the Device Care app’s version 13.8.80.7. It is rolling out to Galaxy devices through the Galaxy Store, via Kailash. The rollout is gradual, so you may have to wait a little longer to have it.

Device Care is an app, but it functions functionality is a bit different. It’s accessible right from the Settings of Galaxy smartphones. No need to have the app in the apps drawer and go through a certain set of menus for operation.

Samsung’s Device Care app provides a global Optimize now button. Tapping it optimizes the battery, storage, and memory of phones. It plays a key role in ensuring optimal user experience on Galaxy devices.

Device care is available across a range of Galaxy devices. Meanwhile, the particular feature may be linked to the latest One UI 8.5 software. It remains to be seen whether it’s making its way to devices with older One UI versions.

Samsung Device Care Block Ads feature

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Sony turns to TSMC as Samsung eats iPhone camera business

9 May 2026 at 09:22

Sony is preparing a deeper manufacturing alliance with TSMC as pressure builds from Samsung gaining ground in Apple’s iPhone camera supply chain.

In a recent development, Japan’s Sony disclosed during its fiscal 2025-2026 earnings presentation that it plans to establish a joint venture with TSMC focused on image sensor development and production technologies.

The shaping alliance between Sony and TSMC looks increasingly like a defensive play from the long-time market leader as South Korea’s Samsung edges closer to Apple’s iPhone camera sensor supply business.

Sony is expected to hold the majority stake in the proposed venture. The companies are also said to be exploring new investments tied to sensor production capacity in Japan, potentially backed by government subsidies.

For years, Sony effectively owned the premium smartphone imaging market. Apple relied heavily on Sony sensors across iPhone generations, while Android makers followed the same path for flagship devices.

Apple is preparing to expand its use of Samsung-made CMOS image sensors. Sony still leads the image sensor market, but its leadership in semiconductors may not be comfortable for a long time if Apple diversifies suppliers.

In other words, Sony is not reacting from weakness. It is reacting because Samsung’s expanding relationship with Apple threatens one of the few semiconductor businesses Sony has consistently dominated for years.

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One UI 9 Beta appears close to release without Liquid Glass UI

9 May 2026 at 08:26

Samsung’s latest move has just pushed One UI 9 Beta toward a public release. The company is internally testing the software on its latest flagships. Users are expected to be invited to the Beta Program by the end of the month.

As spotted by TarunVats, One UI 9 Beta is now being tested on Korean models ahead of release. It’s a major development, following the initial Beta firmware discoveries on the software servers of International and the United States.

The most recent build on the Korean server is ZZE9, but the release version will be different. It’s being tested internally, and changes are being made. If the stability is verified by the end of May, a Beta Program opening is likely.

Samsung’s One UI 9 Beta is built on the Android 17 operating system. Google is set to unveil key details about the new OS at The Android Show. The livestream starts on May 12 on YouTube; open to all tech enthusiasts.

Android 17’s teaser hinted at the adoption of Liquid Glass. It brought mixed reactions from the community, with some welcoming and others opposing. Eventually, a Google official confirmed Liquid Glass isn’t happening.

The Android Show I/O 2026

A Samsung leaker also revealed that One UI 9 doesn’t look at Liquid Glass for now. Samsung has its own software design, which isn’t bound by Android. If it wants Liquid Glass, Galaxy users will get it atop Android 17.

We expect Samsung to gradually evolve the frosted glass design. One UI 8.5 paves the way for improvements to the interface. One UI 9 will enhance it and we may see even bigger tweaks in the One UI 9.5 version in 2027.

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Samsung Galaxy A57 picks up a fresh firmware update

9 May 2026 at 07:37

Samsung has a fresh firmware update for Galaxy A57. As part of its second update, the smartphone is receiving the April 2026 security patch. It’s a significant boost to the system security and stability for the overall user experience.

Galaxy A57 was unveiled alongside the Galaxy A37 in March 2026. Just a week after getting unveiled, the device received first OTA. That update included a security patch dated January 2026, despite being released in April 2026.

Now, users can download the latest firmware update on their Galaxy A57, which carries a PDA build version ending with AZD9, via @raihanhan121.

Samsung revealed last month the content of its April security patch. Exynos-powered models receive fixes for 47 vulnerabilities. It contains 4 specific CVE items from Samsung Semiconductor to ensure stability and reliability.

Users can download the update through Settings > Software update > Download and install.

Samsung’s Galaxy A57 comes with Android 16-based One UI 8.5. The company promises six years of Android and security updates. The rollout of One UI 8.5 has just begun, but One UI 9 will be the first significant upgrade.

The Korean tech giant is running a decent offer on the Galaxy A37 and Galaxy A57 in India. You may have purchased at full price, but the Galaxy A37 is down by INR 5000, while the Galaxy A57 price is slashed by INR 7000.

Earlier, Samsung ran a survey in the UK, and the findings revealed exciting information. Buyers nowadays think twice when it comes to battery life and reliability. Resale value has become a crucial point when buyers pick their new phone.

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We compared Samsung’s One UI 8.5 announcements across regions

9 May 2026 at 06:42

On May 6, Samsung officially started the One UI 8.5 update rollout. The company confirmed the One UI 8.5 release through a press release, but a treasure of details is hidden inside announcements posted across regions.

The rollout kicked off in South Korea on May 6, with a major wave of additional markets, including Europe, Hong Kong, India, Latin America, North America, Southeast Asia, and Taiwan, following on May 11.

Samsung’s One UI 8.5 announcements across regions

Samsung’s Global Newsroom is the primary source for official announcements. US residents have their own Newsroom, which functions better than the Global channel. Meanwhile, there are plenty of regional Newsroom channels.

One UI 8.5 announcements were posted across several regions. The Global, US, and Korean press releases have fewer details than the regional ones. It was discovered during our intense research, and we broke it down for our readers.

Global/USA

The Global announcement is the most conservative, listing only the recent flagship devices with no regional specifics. Minimum guaranteed devices across all regions are Galaxy S25/S24 series, Z Fold6/Flip6, Z Fold7/Flip7, Tab S10/S11.

Europe/Germany

Germany gets the most devices

It adds the Galaxy S23 series, S23 FE, Z Fold 5/Flip 5, Tab S9, and the entire Galaxy A lineup (3 generations), reflecting a broader support commitment in the European market.

In Germany, Samsung’s A-series phones are the Galaxy A15, Galaxy A16, Galaxy A17, Galaxy A25, Galaxy A26, Galaxy A34, Galaxy A35, Galaxy A36, Galaxy A54, Galaxy A55, and Galaxy A56.

Middle East/UAE

UAE is the most specific on timing

It’s one of the regions that explicitly commits to a May 11 rollout date for a named list of global regions. Well, the same date surfaced for the rollout of the same day Samsung posted the initial release announcement.

TopicGlobal (USA)Europe (Germany)Middle East (UAE)
S-series devicesS25, S25 FE, S24, S24 FES25, S25 FE, S24, S24 FE, + S23, S23 FES25, S25 FE, S24, S24 FE
Z Fold/Flip devicesZ Fold7/6, Z Flip7/6Z Fold7/6/5, Z Flip7/6/5Z Fold7/6, Z Flip7/6
Tablet devicesTab S11, Tab S10Tab S11, Tab S10, + Galaxy Tab S9Tab S11, Tab S10
Galaxy A seriesNot mentionedA15, A16, A17, A25, A26, A34, A35, A36, A54, A55, & A56Not mentioned
Rollout startMay 6 (Korea)May 6 (Korea), Germany to followMay 6 (Korea), May 11 for key regions
Specific region datesNot specifiedNot specifiedMay 11 explicitly named for Europe, India, NA, SEA, etc.

As with any large-scale rollout, Samsung notes that specific features, availability, and timing may vary by model and market. That said, some devices may receive the update slightly later than others, even within the same region.

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Samsung confirms 20 more Galaxy S, Z, A and Tab devices for One UI 8.5 official rollout

8 May 2026 at 21:43

Samsung revealed on May 6 a list of devices getting One UI 8.5 official update. The initial rollout has already started for select premium phones released in 2025 and the update is set to expand on May 11 to devices from 2024.

That was just a formal chart of eligible devices, which is not final. There are plenty of Galaxy phones, foldables and tablets that will receive the update.

Samsung Germany went a step ahead of Global channel, revealing 20 more Galaxy devices getting the One UI 8.5 official update.

The company shared an even more mature rollout plan for 20 devices across Galaxy S flagships, Galaxy Z foldables, Galaxy Tab tablets and mid-range Galaxy A phones.

Galaxy S Series

  1. Galaxy S23
  2. Galaxy S23 Plus
  3. Galaxy S23 Ultra
  4. Galaxy S23 FE

Galaxy Z Series

  1. Galaxy Z Fold 5
  2. Galaxy Z Flip 5

Galaxy Tab Series

  1. Galaxy Tab S9
  2. Galaxy Tab S9+
  3. Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra

Galaxy A Series

  1. Galaxy A15
  2. Galaxy A16
  3. Galaxy A17
  4. Galaxy A25
  5. Galaxy A26
  6. Galaxy A34
  7. Galaxy A35
  8. Galaxy A36
  9. Galaxy A54
  10. Galaxy A55
  11. Galaxy A56

Samsung Germany didn’t mention an exact timeline for rollout. Global expansion is set to take place on May 11 across regions: Europe, Hong Kong, India, Latin America, North America, Southeast Asia, and Taiwan.

Related article:

May 2026 will be filled with continuous One UI 8.5 releases. Flagships are leading the way, with mid-range and budget phones following later.

Note that the devices listed above are now officially confirmed to receive the update. Meanwhile, the software update’s expansion will take place gradually.

Related article:

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These Samsung Galaxy devices received Stable One UI 8.5 first

12 May 2026 at 06:42

On May 6, 2026, Samsung announced the rollout of the One UI 8.5 stable update for Galaxy devices. The software remained in Beta testing phase for over five months. Well, the second wave of rollout was crazy enough, spreading blazingly fast.

The day Samsung began One UI 8.5 stable rollout, plenty of Galaxy devices received the update. The availability in Wave 1 was limited to South Korea. However, the Wave 2 rollout covered millions of Galaxy devices on May 11, 2026.

As part of One UI 8.5, Samsung is bringing select AI features from the Galaxy S26 series across the Galaxy ecosystem. The update focuses on enhancing communication and creative experiences on Galaxy mobile phones and tablets.

These devices have received the Stable update first – Wave 1

  • Galaxy S25, S25 Plus and S25 Ultra
  • Galaxy S25 Edge
  • Galaxy S25 FE
  • Galaxy Z TriFold
  • Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7
  • Galaxy Z Flip7 FE

Major expansion on May 11

Samsung devices that have received the update on May 6 in South Korea have received the OTA in the Global markets. The second phase of rollout has also begun in South Korea, before hitting the worldwide market.

The first wave targets flagship models released in 2025, including the Galaxy S25 series, Z7 series foldables, and the TriFold phone. The second wave aimed at the Galaxy S24 series and the Z6 series foldables in South Korea.

In its Global press release, Samsung confirmed that the update is gradually starting to arrive on the Galaxy S25 series, S25 FE, S24 series, S24 FE, Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, Z Fold6 and Z Flip6, Galaxy Tab S11 series, and Tab S10 series.

These devices have received the Stable update – Wave 2

  • Galaxy S24, S24+ and S24 Ultra
  • Galaxy S24 FE
  • Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6
  • Galaxy Z Fold SE

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Could Samsung be developing a rival to Apple’s camera-equipped AirPods?

8 May 2026 at 17:30

Apple may be experimenting with camera-equipped AirPods, but the bigger question is this: does Samsung already have the groundwork to do it better?

According to Bloomberg, Apple is testing AirPods with low-resolution cameras that feed visual data into Siri and its AI stack.

Apple’s rumored solution reportedly leans on longer AirPods stems to house the camera hardware. Point your earbuds at an object, ask questions, get directions, maybe identify products or landmarks in real time.

A theoretical “Galaxy Buds Vision” would not even need to copy Apple’s approach directly. In fact, Samsung would be smarter to avoid it entirely.

Samsung’s design language has historically been more restrained. The company experimented with bean-shaped form factors, compact buds, and low-profile ergonomics long before Apple started treating earbuds like fashion accessories.

A theoretical “Galaxy Buds Vision” would not even need to copy Apple’s approach directly. Samsung’s design language has historically been more restrained, unlocking an opportunity to position itself as the Android brand, taking a less invasive route.

This category may still sound experimental, maybe even unnecessary. But wearable AI is clearly moving beyond screens.

The difference is that Samsung appears better positioned to build something practical, while Apple once again risks building something attention-grabbing first and useful later.

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Samsung devices getting an uncommon Security Policy update

8 May 2026 at 16:37

Users of Samsung phones and tablets are seeing a rare May 2026 Security Policy update in South Korea. It’s available across Galaxy S and Galaxy Tab lineup, but don’t expect a wider availability outside Samsung’s home ground.

Unlike standard firmware updates that require a full OTA package, this update quietly refreshes Samsung’s security policy files in the background to improve device protection against newly discovered threats.

The update is seemingly tied to Samsung’s SE for Android (Samsung Enhanced) security framework, which works behind the scenes to strengthen device security even between major software releases.

According to Play Store description, these policy files are designed to “help protect your device data” and can be updated whenever new threats emerge, allowing Samsung to react faster without waiting for the next firmware build.

This type of update does not usually introduce visible changes or new features. It plays an important role in Samsung’s layered security ecosystem that includes Samsung Knox, real-time threat detection, and app protection services.

Samsung recently detailed the May 2026 security patch, confirming that it fixes 39 vulnerabilities. Samsung has been moving aggressively with software updates this month, especially as the stable One UI 8.5 rollout gains momentum.

The company officially confirmed that One UI 8.5 started expanding to more Galaxy devices beginning May 6, initially in South Korea before broader global availability.

Security Policy updates, Google Play System updates, and Galaxy app patches now allow Samsung to react much faster to vulnerabilities and malware risks without forcing users to wait for a complete One UI update cycle.

Samsung Security Policy Update

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Official One UI 8.5 leaves key Galaxy S26 features missing on the S25

8 May 2026 at 13:05

The official One UI 8.5 update has arrived, and it’s a bit disappointing for the Galaxy S25 series as it lacks some actually useful features from the S26 series.

Samsung spent months marketing One UI 8.5 as the next era of Galaxy AI. The stable rollout landed on the Galaxy S25 series, and users immediately noticed something strange: features that previously worked in Beta were suddenly gone.

Right now, Samsung’s most loyal users increasingly believe One UI 8.5 is not just an update. It is a controlled downgrade designed to preserve feature exclusivity for the Galaxy S26 lineup.

The backlash exploded after a detailed Samsung Members post outlined how features like “Now Nudge,” Samsung Browser’s “Ask AI,” and even the rumored 24MP camera mode either vanished or became blocked.

Samsung’s traditional defense in these situations usually falls back on silicon optimization, thermal headroom, or AI processing limitations. Sometimes that argument is valid; this time, it falls apart quickly.

The community post points out something deeply embarrassing for Samsung’s positioning strategy: Perplexity-powered Bixby features work on lower-spec Galaxy Books, including models that are not officially categorized as AI PCs.

Even worse, Samsung’s software segmentation logic becomes inconsistent across regions because Exynos/Snapdragon optimization differences are no longer large enough to justify feature disparity at this scale.

The 24MP camera mode has become symbolic of the broader frustration surrounding feature parity. So when a feature disappears despite appearing technically viable, people stop assuming engineering constraints.

The Now Nudge situation especially highlights the problem. If the feature worked in internal testing and was later blocked intentionally, Samsung stated to adopters that software capability matters less than launch-year marketing strategy.

Samsung proudly advertises seven years of Android updates, but support without feature parity increasingly feels hollow. Flagship buyers expect evolving functionality throughout a device’s lifespan, especially when the hardware is relevant.

The company still has time to reverse course. Enabling features like Now Nudge, Ask AI integration, or the 24MP camera mode through future One UI updates would calm a significant portion of the criticism overnight.

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Latest Samsung Bixby packs new intelligence features

8 May 2026 at 12:08

The latest Bixby app brings new intelligence features to Samsung devices. The changes first appeared on the Galaxy S26 flagships. Now, even more devices are receiving it following the start of the One UI 8.5 update rollout.

Bixby has gained even more intelligence, with Samsung promoting more natural and intelligent conversation. The latest update also improves core functionality, offering you personalized settings control and usage guidance.

What’s new

The latest version focuses on improving everyday usability with a better understanding of conversational commands and personalized guidance.

With this update, users no longer need to remember exact feature names or complicated voice commands. Bixby can now better understand casual language and quickly find the right settings or actions based on what the user actually means.

Samsung is also making Bixby feel more like a real assistant during conversations. Users can speak naturally while switching between tasks, and Bixby can continue handling requests across multiple apps without needing repeated instructions.

Another key addition is device-specific personalized guidance. Bixby now offers tailored help depending on the Galaxy device being used, making it easier for users to discover features and adjust settings in a more convenient way.

The improvements suggest Samsung is continuing to push Bixby toward a more intelligent and context-aware experience.

Samsung’s latest Bixby version is 4.0.80.6, which started rolling out on May 7. A regular update weighs nearly 88 megabytes and you can download it through Galaxy Store.

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Galaxy S26 matches S26 Ultra-level thermal performance, thanks to new 3D TIM cooling

8 May 2026 at 10:26

New details surfacing about the Exynos 2600’s cooling tech, which delivers S26 Ultra-level thermal performance to the standard Galaxy S26 flagship.

Samsung may have finally solved one of the biggest compromises with smaller flagship phones: heat. If the latest findings hold up, this is a major win for Galaxy fans who prefer compact phones without sacrificing sustained performance.

According to a new report, the regular Galaxy S26 delivers thermal performance close to the Galaxy S26 Ultra, despite the Ultra traditionally having a much larger cooling advantage.

The credit apparently goes to Samsung’s redesigned “Tailor 3D TIM (Thermal Interface Material)” cooling solution paired with the Exynos 2600 chip.

TIM is the layer that sits between the processor and cooling hardware, helping transfer heat away from the chip as efficiently as possible. The company describes the new 3D TIM as being shaped like custom-fitted clothing for the components inside the phone.

Instead of a simple flat layer, it is molded to match the uneven heights and gaps between surrounding chips and heat-generating parts on the motherboard.

It’s said that this new design increased the effective thermal contact area by around 118% compared to the previous 2D TIM solutions. According to internal findings, the new design dramatically improved contact coverage for these hotspots.

Modern smartphone processors are no longer the only major heat source. Components like power management chips and UFS storage also generate significant heat under load.

The company says the upgraded cooling setup lowered AP temperatures by 1.18°C and reduced rear surface temperatures by 0.73°C compared to older designs.

That suggests Samsung is taking a more aggressive approach to sustained performance rather than relying purely on larger vapor chambers.

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Samsung’s new setup signals ambitious LTPO display upgrades

8 May 2026 at 08:55

A new equipment order inside Samsung Display’s supply chain may have just revealed where future Galaxy LTPO screens are headed.

According to ETNews, Samsung Display is preparing to bring LTPO backplane tech to its second Gen 8.6 OLED production line. It signals the company is no longer building its next-gen OLED infrastructure solely around laptops.

Samsung Display recently ordered ELA equipment, a core process required for LTPO TFT manufacturing, which is expected to arrive sometime in the first half of 2027, alongside ion implantation systems from Japan.

Instead of buying entirely new systems, the company reportedly plans to convert two existing Gen 6 OLED ELA machines for Gen 8.6 production. The move opens the door for smartphone-grade OLED production on Gen 8.6 lines in the future.

Samsung originally designed its Gen 8.6 OLED roadmap around Oxide TFT technology. The strategy was straightforward: target the growing IT OLED segment, especially premium laptops and tablets.

The utilization of OLED displays has reached 5 percent in 2025, TrendForce reported. Even with Apple expected to accelerate adoption through OLED MacBook Pro models, the market is projected to hit only 7.4% this year.

That said, the South Korean tech giant is effectively transforming Gen 8.6 from a laptop-focused OLED platform into a flexible production base capable of handling future smartphone-class panels.

Industry insiders suggest Samsung wants optionality. If IT OLED demand grows more slowly than expected, the company can pivot capacity toward mobile applications.

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Strange Galaxy S25 battery drain issue in the US has an easy fix

8 May 2026 at 07:41

Samsung Galaxy S25 users in the US, specifically on T-Mobile, are experiencing a strange battery drain issue. Growing reports from affected users have forced Samsung to develop a solution, and it’s easier than you might think.

Some Galaxy S25 users on T-Mobile may have been facing excessive battery drain in the US. The temporary solution provided by Samsung suggests that the issue is linked to a system app, which can be easily resolved.

It seems the latest version of the Mobile Services app is the primary culprit. That said, the workaround demands a rollback to the previous factory version until the patch arrives.

While the workaround is here, Samsung may patch the problem in the next software update. The rollout of One UI 8.5 has begun, and US users are expected to get it starting May 11.

How to fix Galaxy S25 battery drain

Samsung recommends users to downgrade the Mobile Services app. One moderator in the US community has also shared the steps (via Larry S White) to uninstall updates of this application.

On your Galaxy phone, first open Settings, then open Apps, press the filter and sort icon to the right of Apps. Once done, turn on Show System Apps and search Mobile Services.

Now, you need to hit the Uninstall updates key and confirm it by tapping OK.

T-Mobile Galaxy S25 battery drain workaround

Source – Samsung USA

Tip – Before you uninstall updates, take a screenshot of the app’s version number shown at the bottom. Compare the difference in the version number after uninstalling updates to ensure everything was right.

The issue seems limited to the Galaxy S25 series on T-Mobile. Meanwhile, it should also improve the battery drain problem across Samsung phones. Even if you don’t have an S25, try this workaround to check if battery life improves.

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Galaxy S26 Ultra freed up from camera distortion issue

7 May 2026 at 22:22

Samsung’s recent software update that aimed to fix the 24MP camera bug on the Galaxy S26 Ultra is not just limited to that specific issue, but also addresses the photo and video distortion problem.

Galaxy S26 Ultra received a new firmware update in late April, which quietly resolved the camera distortion issue. The camera-centric update consists of a wide range of improvements to keep the experience elevated.

As spotted by MojoTrick, the camera operator confirmed that the photo and video distortion bug has been addressed in the build released on April 27. Users of the Galaxy S26 phones can now expect a more reliable experience.

Some users reported a distortion problem in certain cases. It was occurring in both photo and video modes on the latest flagships. The software team has identified the root cause and has led to its resolution in the recent patch.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera Photo and Video distortion issue

A wide range of S26 Ultra users reported inconsistency with 24MP shots. The device was saving cropped pictures from one side. The preview was looking nice, but the final result was completely different in the Gallery.

Samsung’s prompt resolution is driven by active participation by users. Regular reports and demand for follow-up have led the team to work fast. The result is here: fans around the world are getting improved camera performance.

One UI 8.5 rollout began on various Galaxy devices yesterday. Meanwhile, the company is keeping some signature features limited to the S26 series, such as Now Nudge, AI-powered Notification Summary, and Prioritize.

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Samsung Foundry’s 2nm progress may soon pay off with AMD

7 May 2026 at 17:14

Samsung Electronics could soon secure another major foundry customer, as AMD is reportedly moving closer to placing orders for Samsung’s 2nm chip technology.

According to Edaily (via Jukan), Samsung Foundry Business Division recently advanced discussions with AMD over manufacturing next-generation 2nm processors.

AMD currently relies heavily on TSMC for processor manufacturing, but the Taiwanese chipmaker is facing capacity pressure from customers, including NVIDIA, Tesla, and Apple.

AMD CEO Lisa Su reportedly visited Samsung’s Pyeongtaek foundry campus in March, where both companies discussed potential 2nm production partnerships.

The talks come as demand for high-performance computing chips continues rising during the rapid expansion of agentic AI systems. Unlike traditional AI chatbots, these systems can perform tasks, increasing demand for both GPUs and CPUs.

Samsung’s improving 2nm yields may help AMD diversify production while giving Samsung another high-profile foundry customer after Tesla. Samsung plans to manufacture advanced AI chips at its Taylor facility.

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Samsung Messages users outside the US just got a reason to relax

7 May 2026 at 16:25

Panic spread quickly after Samsung confirmed plans to discontinue Samsung Messages. Well, the company has silently updated its announcement page. At least for now, Samsung Messages is only being discontinued in the US.

If you live in Europe, Asia, India, or most other regions, you can continue using Samsung Messages app. The company has officially confirmed this distinction, even though much of the online discussion ignored it entirely.

Samsung is pushing Google Messages stateside

Samsung began preloading Google Messages on Galaxy phones years ago, especially in the United States. Google Messages became the centerpiece of Android’s broader messaging strategy, particularly after Apple finally adopted RCS support.

Google Messages already handles Samsung-exclusive integrations on many Galaxy devices, including One UI styling tweaks and deeper RCS support.

Samsung’s official End of Service notice clearly states the change is “Applicable to the U.S. market only.” The company also reportedly confirmed to Bild that there are currently no plans to discontinue it outside the US.

Samsung Messages US Shutdown

If you’re using Samsung Messages in India, Germany, the UK, South Korea, or elsewhere, you can keep using the app exactly as before. Meanwhile, that doesn’t necessarily mean the Samsung Messages app is safe forever.

The Galaxy S26 series and newer models can no longer download Samsung Messages from the Galaxy Store. Once July 2026 arrives, the app will disappear from the Galaxy Store entirely for other supported US devices as well.

Related article:

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Samsung takes back iPhone 18 Pro OLED business from BOE

7 May 2026 at 15:39

Alongside LG Display, Samsung Display is set to dominate OLED panel shipments for the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, effectively shutting China’s BOE out of the most lucrative tier this cycle.

Apple is expected to lock in OLED panel approvals this month. The outcome looks familiar: Samsung and LG will carry the bulk of the load, while BOE struggles to hold onto even a foothold in the high-end lineup.

At the center of this divide sits LTPO+. Samsung and LG have moved ahead here, refining both performance and production stability, while BOE has not kept pace.

LTPO+ is where the real game is being played. BOE’s limitations are showing up where it matters most, in yields and consistency. That is a serious problem when you are dealing with Pro models that demand tight power efficiency.

Pay attention: Samsung and LG have industrialized LTPO+; BOE is still catching up. Industry insiders say its yields remain inconsistent, and that alone is enough for Apple to look elsewhere.

Samsung Display is projected to ship around 146 million OLED panels to Apple this year. LG Display follows with over 82 million units. BOE sits far behind at roughly 35 million, most of that tied to older or entry-level models.

Even BOE’s partial involvement in the iPhone 17 Pro did not change the trajectory. Quality issues disrupted its supply, and Samsung ended up grabbing that demand. Keeping BOE in the mix gives Apple negotiating power against Samsung and LG.

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Samsung Wonderland app now handles motion wallpapers more reliably

7 May 2026 at 14:51

Samsung has rolled out a new update for the Wonderland app, bringing a few meaningful improvements for users who create custom motion wallpapers on Galaxy devices.

One of the key fixes restores the 3D motion effect for portrait photos used in motion wallpapers. Some users had noticed that the depth effect was no longer working properly, and this update appears to address that issue.

The update also changes how the app handles photo and video permissions.

Instead of asking for broad access upfront, Wonderland now requests permission only when users actually try to load files. It’s a cleaner and more privacy-friendly approach.

Samsung has additionally fixed a bug that could cause videos and animated elements in wallpapers to randomly stop playing. With this patch, motion wallpapers should now run more reliably without interruptions.

The latest Wonderland update is rolling out through Galaxy Store. The availability seems broad, but not all Galaxy users may see the update immediately. The customization app requires Good Lock to be installed already to function.

Samsung Wonderland May 2026 update changelog

  • Improved the app so that the 3D effect is applied again when using portrait photos for motion wallpapers.
  • Changed photo and video permissions to optional permissions, and updated the app to request permission only when loading actual files.
  • Fixed an issue where videos and animations in wallpapers would occasionally stop.

Samsung Wonderland App Update

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Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 4 Pro receive May 2026 firmware update

7 May 2026 at 13:57

Samsung is finally pushing May 2026 firmware to its latest premium earbuds, and this time both the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are getting some attention.

The updates are relatively small in size, but seasoned Samsung users already know the pattern here: these early maintenance builds often lay the groundwork for long-term stability.

Galaxy Buds 3 Pro

Samsung has started releasing a new update for the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro in South Korea. The firmware carries version R630XXU0AZD2 and weighs in at around 8.28MB.

The official changelog is short, classic Samsung style. After translation, it mentions that “stabilization code related to terminal operation” has been applied.

Galaxy Buds 4 Pro

Seeing the Buds 4 Pro finally join the firmware train in Europe is a notable milestone.

The Korean tech giant has now started rolling out the first meaningful post-launch firmware update for the Buds 4 Pro across parts of Europe, including the Netherlands, Belgium, and nearby markets.

Roughly two months after release, the earbuds are finally getting their first refinement-focused build. The update arrives with firmware version R640XXU0AZD2 and carries a package size of just over 8.5 megabytes.

If you’re holding a pair of Galaxy Buds 3 Pro or Buds 4 Pro, checking for the update only takes a minute.

  1. Open the Galaxy Wearable app on your phone
  2. Head to Earbuds settings
  3. Tap Earbuds software update
  4. Select Download and install

Once the firmware is ready, tap Install now.

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Three Samsung phones lose software support in May 2026

7 May 2026 at 11:56

Samsung has removed three Galaxy phones from the software update support chart in May 2026. Two Galaxy A phones and one Galaxy M phone have reached their end of life, years after receiving regular software updates.

Monthly Updates – No change

Samsung’s May 2026 update chart is identical to April in the Monthly segment; no additions, removals, or transfers.

Removals from Quarterly Updates

Three devices were dropped entirely from the May list (not transferred anywhere, just removed). The budget Galaxy A13, along with the mid-range Galaxy A23 LTE and Galaxy M33 5G models, is no longer eligible for updates.

  1. Galaxy A13 was part of the A13, A14, A14 5G… row in April. In May, that row starts from A14 onward.
  2. Galaxy A23 (non-5G) was listed alongside the A23 5G in April. In May, only the A23 5G remains.
  3. Galaxy M33 5G was part of the M33 5G, M34 5G… row in April. In May, that row starts from M34 5G.

Note that Samsung has already abandoned its Biannual offering. Devices no longer shift from the Quarterly to the Biannual update chart. If flagship, the device stays in Monthly, then moves to Quarterly in the last year of support.

Samsung’s May 2026 security patch brings fixes to 29 Android CVEs and 10 One UI SVEs. The latest security update hasn’t yet started rolling out. Users should be ready for a delay in the May patch rollout due to One UI 8.5.

On May 6, Samsung started releasing the One UI 8.5 update. Galaxy S25 series, Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7 and more phones received the stable update. Samsung plans to open a worldwide rollout for several devices on May 11, 2026.

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Samsung Galaxy S26 FE may get Exynos SoC in all regions

7 May 2026 at 11:21

Samsung may launch Galaxy S26 FE with Exynos SoC in all regions. Earlier this year, the company launched the Galaxy S26 series. As usual, a Fan Edition model with familiar experience will join the lineup by the end of the year.

Exynos is shaping up to be a big deal in the Galaxy S26 FE as Samsung reportedly plans to use its in-house SoC in all regions. The upgrade is expected to be very significant, bringing a major generational shift.

Galaxy S25 FE uses Exynos 2400 fabricated on a 4nm process. The Galaxy S26 FE may come with Exynos 2500, which is made using Samsung Foundry’s 3nm node. It’s going to be a huge technological upgrade.

Earlier, an SM-S741U (S26 FE moniker) was spotted on Geekbench. The device was equipped with an Exynos 2500 chip and Android 17 preinstalled, scoring 2426 points in single-core and 8004 points in multi-core tests.

Samsung Galaxy Exynos 2500 Chip

Image – Exynos 2500 | Source – Samsung

Samsung ships the S26 and S26+ with the Exynos 2600 chipset in most markets. This processor is made using the cutting-edge 2nm process. However, it’s unlikely to power the Fan Edition handset coming later this year.

As for Exynos 2600, Samsung has a different device. The upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 8 may use the 2nm processor in select countries. Snapdragon chipset might return to certain markets, such as the United States and China.

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Galaxy Z Fold 8, Wide and Flip 8 may bring a familiar Snapdragon vs Exynos split

7 May 2026 at 10:33

A new leak sheds light on the potential chips for Samsung’s upcoming foldable phones, the Galaxy Z Fold 8, Galaxy Z Fold8 Wide, and Galaxy Z Flip 8.

According to Erencan Yılmaz, Samsung may use Snapdragon chips in the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Fold8 Wide, while the Galaxy Z Flip 8 may go for Exynos.

Last year, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and TriFold with a flagship Snapdragon processor. Exynos 2500, which missed adoption in the S25 series, has debuted with the Galaxy Z Flip 7 worldwide.

In 2026, Samsung’s chip choices may remain intact. The book-style foldable phones may opt for Snapdragon, while the clamshell-type folding device would prefer Exynos.

There’s also a chance that the Galaxy Z Flip 8 may use a Snapdragon processor in select markets. The adoption may be similar to the Galaxy S lineup, prioritizing Qualcomm in the US, China, Canada and a few more countries.

Galaxy S26 series comes with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy. It’s the fastest application processor in the Android segment. Exynos 2600 is the world’s first 2nm chipset, which powers S26 and S26 Plus in most markets.

Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold8 Wide are not just expensive but signature models. Exynos 2600 is nice, but it still lags behind its Snapdragon counterpart. That said, the Fold lineup may pick Snapdragon, just like the S26 Ultra.

Samsung is expected to hold its Unpacked event on July 22 in London.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8, Fold8 Wide and Flip 8 Chips

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