Reading view

One UI 8.5 Stable update rolling out to non-Beta users

Samsung’s Stable One UI 8.5 update has started rolling out to non-Beta users of the Galaxy S25 series. Nearly five months of Beta testing were required to tailor the mid-cycle update for the 2025 flagship lineups, and it’s finally here.

Earlier, the South Korean tech giant started releasing the CZDP update to Beta participants. Users have received notification of Beta closure, and an incremental build has become available to switch the Beta state to Stable.

One UI 8.5 isn’t just a minor update.

This massive 4.4GB update brings Samsung’s next-gen AI experience, deeper customization, and a meaningful UI refresh to the Galaxy S25 series; something that actually feels closer to a “.0” upgrade than a mid-cycle patch.

One UI 8.5 introduces a cleaner interface with subtle visual tweaks across the system. Animations feel smoother, layouts are better optimized, and Samsung has improved overall navigation without making things feel unfamiliar.

Samsung finally loosens control over the Quick Panel. Users can now rearrange toggles more freely, adjust layout, and even reposition sliders. It’s a small change on paper, but it significantly improves daily usability.

AI continues to be a core focus. One UI 8.5 enhances features like call screening, live transcription, and AI-powered photo editing. Tools such as Audio Eraser and generative editing are more refined and easier to access.

The update improves the camera and editing experience with better AI assistance. Samsung tweaks UI placement in key apps. Elements like search bars are now easier to reach. After a long beta cycle, the stable build focuses heavily on performance.

One UI 8.5 may not look dramatic at first glance, but it delivers where it matters. From smarter AI features to better customization and smoother performance, this update makes the Galaxy S25 experience more polished and practical.

Related article:

The post One UI 8.5 Stable update rolling out to non-Beta users appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung’s One UI 8.5 arrives for Galaxy S25 Edge flagship

Samsung starts the Stable One UI 8.5 update rollout to the Galaxy S25 Edge slim flagship phone. An OTA just dropped in South Korea, which is major, and carries plenty of new features and user interface improvements.

The Korean tech giant has also released a major upgrade for the Galaxy S25 series. And we expect the Fan Edition model to join the party soon.

Despite being a Galaxy S25 family member, the Galaxy S25 Edge was sidelined in the Beta Program. Users waited months, and Samsung is now bringing the One UI 8.5 features and UI tweaks to the Galaxy S25 Edge flagship.

One UI 8.5 introduces a major redesign over previous iterations. One UI 8 felt boring despite utilizing Android 16 base. Now, it has become clear that Samsung kept visible changes reserved for the mid-cycle software update.

You will now be able to share files with Apple users through Quick Share; the AirDrop connection makes it happen. Good Lock experience has also been enhanced, with modules and plugins offering even more customization tricks.

Samsung is also offering new AI features such as Call screening, Audio Eraser with 3rd-party apps support, Photo Assist with text input, and Creative Studio. System animations are also gaining notable refinements and fluidity.

Galaxy S25 Edge

Galaxy S25 Edge is Samsung’s first slim flagship phone. It was released in May 2025 and measures just 5.8mm thick. It boasts Galaxy S Ultra-like 200-megapixel camera, but battery and charging letdowns ruined its appeal.

Last December, Samsung added Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra flagship phones to the Beta Program. Samsung surprised users of Galaxy S25 FE this month by adding the Fan Edition to the Beta testing programme.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge One UI 8.5 Update

The post Samsung’s One UI 8.5 arrives for Galaxy S25 Edge flagship appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Stable One UI 8.5 update rolling out to Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Fold 7

Stable One UI 8.5 update has started rolling out to the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and the Galaxy Z Fold 7. This isn’t a routine update, but it packs a plethora of new features and user interface tweaks.

This Stable One UI 8.5 update isn’t just arriving on the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7. It’s a result of months of internal and Beta testing. Users of these devices have also played a key role in enhancing the software system.

Users who have participated in Beta are getting it first, and non-Beta users are getting a big OTA sequentially. Samsung has also included the April 2026 security patch, which ensures optimal security of your device.

Ambient Design and AI upgrades are the key highlights of One UI 8.5 software. Extended screen estate has been improved by adopting a floating navigation bar and UI components.

Various Samsung apps have been optimized for the new design language. Deeper integration of AI features aims to enhance the overall user experience and accessibility.

During the Beta testing, Samsung also installed select AI features from the Galaxy S26 series on the foldable devices. The main additions include AI-powered Call screening, enhanced Audio Eraser, Photo Assist and Creative Studio.

Good Lock apps also upgrade with extended functionalities. The Quick Share app has also gained support for AirDrop connection. It allows you to share and receive files across Apple devices, one of the most significant upgrades.

How to download and install:

  • Open system Settings on your phone
  • Navigate to Software update
  • Hit Download and install, followed by Install now

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 One UI 8.5 Stable Update

The post Stable One UI 8.5 update rolling out to Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Fold 7 appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung Galaxy S25 FE grabs One UI 8.5 Stable update

Samsung Galaxy S25 FE is now picking up the One UI 8.5 stable update, and it’s arriving faster than most people expected. South Korea gets it first, as usual, but the bigger story sits just a few days away; this is about to go global.

The rollout has kicked off in Samsung’s home market, right on cue after the main S25 series received the same update. When it comes to software releases, South Korea acts as the launchpad; the rest of the world follows almost immediately.

Samsung FE devices usually trail behind flagships by a noticeable margin. This year, Samsung is clearly tightening the gap, and that says a lot about how seriously it’s treating the “Fan Edition” lineup in 2026.

The Stable build should be solid enough for daily use. Smooth, consistent, and polished right out of the gate. If yes, this rollout is more interesting than usual, especially for users who skip beta programs entirely.

Don’t expect a massive visual overhaul; that’s not what this update is about. Instead, One UI 8.5 focuses on refinement. The kind you notice after a few hours, not instantly.

  • Animations feel tighter, more fluid
  • Background apps behave better, which helps battery life
  • Privacy controls get subtle but meaningful upgrades
  • Small UI tweaks clean up the overall experience

The update should start expanding globally within days. May 4 is shaping up to be the likely window, yet the rollout timing can still vary depending on region and carrier approvals, but the wait shouldn’t be long.

How to install the BZDP update:

If you’re holding the Galaxy S25 FE, checking manually is your best bet.

Head to:

  • Settings > Software update > Download and install

The post Samsung Galaxy S25 FE grabs One UI 8.5 Stable update appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung ends One UI 8.5 Beta, Galaxy S25 users upgrade to Stable

Finally, the day has arrived that Galaxy S25 users have been eagerly awaiting. The news: Samsung ends One UI 8.5 Beta Program as Beta participants are getting the Stable update, bringing phones back to official firmware.

Last December, Samsung launched Galaxy S25’s One UI Beta Program. It was available in six countries: Germany, India, Poland, South Korea, the UK and the US. Samsung pushed 10 Beta updates during the Program.

After the 8th Beta, the official update was assumed to be released. Meanwhile, Samsung pushed out two more Beta builds, with the 10th Beta adding select new AI features from the Galaxy S26 series.

Samsung’s last Beta is almost as stable as the official firmware. However, it’s necessary to return to the Stable channel as the Beta channel is being closed. This move starts in Korea, with wider expansion likely by May 4th.

Don’t stay on Beta firmware

If you are on Beta, install the supplementary software update, which isn’t as large as the general models, but does the same work. Bugs have been fixed, features have been installed, just the Beta > Stable switch is the target.

Withdrawing the Beta Program mandates a factory reset. However, the latest update doesn’t require resetting the device either, making the process easy and convenient.

Note that sticking to Beta won’t bring surprises. Samsung doesn’t run Beta Programs as Apple and Google do. You are required to switch as the Beta window is closed, feedback will not be responded to, and there will be no support.

Make sure to update all the apps installed on your Galaxy. The operating system is the brain, but the ecosystem of apps is vital in the user experience. Even on Stable OS, you will be able to report bugs and submit feedback.

Samsung Galaxy S25 One UI 8.5 Beta Program End

The post Samsung ends One UI 8.5 Beta, Galaxy S25 users upgrade to Stable appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung releases Stable One UI 8.5 update

Months after Beta testing, Samsung has officially started the rollout of the Stable One UI 8.5 update. Beta participants are getting prioritized, but non-Beta users shouldn’t worry about the availability of the major upgrade.

Users of Samsung’s Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra have started receiving the Stable One UI 8.5 update. The Korean tech giant has pushed it in its home ground, and the Global availability may start in the first week of May.

Update size differs based on the state

If you’re on One UI 8.5 Beta, your device may have received an incremental update. It switches the Beta state of your phone’s software to Stable.

In case you haven’t joined the Beta Program, Samsung is giving you a full firmware, which weighs in gigabytes and replaces the One UI 8.0 with One UI 8.5, based on Android 16.

Whether you’re on Beta or Stable, the experience is going to elevate. Make sure to charge your phone’s battery enough for uninterrupted update installation. Creating a backup is always advised to prevent any potential problem.

One UI 8.5 Update

Samsung’s One UI 8.5 was debuted with the Galaxy S26 series. The update introduces plenty of new features powered by artificial intelligence. Samsung has also worked on the user interface to streamline the user experience.

Ambient Design is the biggest upgrade, which boosts the screen estate. The new design language offers a dynamic interface across activities. The company has also improved various apps with floating navigation components.

Now that One UI 8.5 is available, Samsung will soon drop One UI 9 Beta. This time, Galaxy S26 users are first in line for priority treatment. Galaxy S25 series may also join the next Beta, but after spending a few months on One UI 8.5.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Stable One UI 8.5 Update

The post Samsung releases Stable One UI 8.5 update appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Galaxy S26 and Fold 7 grab rare new firmware update in the US

Samsung is rolling out a new firmware update to the Galaxy S26 series and Z Fold 7 in the US. The company is reportedly pushing the third release, dated April 2026, to the flagship phones, while the foldable is getting its second.

US users of the Galaxy S26 series and Z Fold 7 can identify the latest firmware update via PDA build version AZDI and AZD3, respectively.

As spotted by MohammedKhatri, the builds are available for carrier-locked models. Meanwhile, not many users reported the availability so far. It seems a gradual rollout, or probably a build with limited carrier availability.

Earlier, Verizon released 2nd firmware update to the Galaxy S26 and S26 lineups. Later, Samsung brought the second April update to the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which especially includes close-up camera improvements.

Galaxy S26 Ultra’s 3rd April OTA seemingly bringing camera fixes to US users. The 24-megapixel camera behaviour would enhance as you install the AZDI build. For the Fold 7, it appears to be a stability improvement update.

To check for updates, open Settings > Software update > Download and install.

Samsung is swiftly working to open the One UI 9 Beta Program. Recently, the first Beta build of the new software has surfaced for US models. It signals that preparations are already underway and US should be invited soon.

Related article:

The post Galaxy S26 and Fold 7 grab rare new firmware update in the US appeared first on Sammy Fans.

One UI 9 may not rush into Android 17’s Liquid Glass redesign

Google is teasing the biggest updates for Android, including a Liquid Glass-inspired interface. Samsung, meanwhile, appears cautious about the Android 17’s Liquid Glass design in the early builds of One UI 9.

Tipster IceUniverse signals through his recent X post that Samsung’s Android 17-based One UI 9 has “no trend of adopting Liquid Glass” (for now).

Samsung may have been considering adopting the Liquid Glass interface in future builds. It’s also possible that the company may take a gradual approach or embark on its own design path, which can also be Liquid Glass.

Early builds of One UI 9 are available in the wild, even on real phones. The company has recently published the first Beta version on its server. The public beta testing may begin soon for the Galaxy S26 series flagships.

Samsung Android 17 One UI 9 Liquid Glass

Apple introduced the Liquid Glass design philosophy with iOS 26. The redesign sparked criticism initially, but ended up being welcomed by the masses. Android 17 is highly likely to be influenced by the new era of user interface.

One UI 8.5 doubles down on UI overhaul with frosted glass design. Samsung may set the foundation of Liquid Glass redesign in One UI 9. However, the full deployment might be kept on hold until the One UI 9.5.

These are just assumptions. What we know from IceUniverse is that the One UI 9 presently has no trend of Liquid Glass adoption. Samsung may postpone it to 2027 or start gradual adoption through the Beta Program this year.

Google scheduled The Android Show 2026 on May 12, where Android 17 and AI upgrades are expected to be discussed. This is the second time in a row the Mountain View company is holding a pre-I/O event for Android.

The post One UI 9 may not rush into Android 17’s Liquid Glass redesign appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung fixes Enhance-X app crashing, shares interim solution

Several Samsung users reported Galaxy Enhance-X app is either crashing or not working. The company has just released a major update, but something may have gone wrong, leading to the app’s functionality being broken.

What’s happening?

Opening the Galaxy Enhance-X app triggers either crashing or an “Update” pop-up. Tapping Update redirects the user to the app’s Galaxy Store listing page, which has no update available for installation.

That said, the application has entered an update loop. The app itself is demanding an update, but the actual update page has nothing.

Samsung acknowledged the problem

A Samsung moderator has acknowledged the issue and confirmed the fix. The app’s latest update, version 16.0.4.1, is being rolled out gradually. It should be available in the Galaxy Store over the next couple of days or weeks.

The moderator has also shared an interim solution, using which I managed to get the Enhance-X working on my Galaxy device.

The trick involves clearing the app’s cache and data. To do so, tap and hold the Enhance-X and hit the “i” icon to open the app’s settings. Tap “Storage,” followed by “Clear cache” as well as “Clear data,” and it will fix the crashing problem.

Samsung Galaxy Enhance-X App Bug

Samsung’s Bixby Vision app has also faced the same issue earlier. The company started the rollout of a new app update through Galaxy Store. That version also patched the app’s update loop problem, which was ruining the experience.

The post Samsung fixes Enhance-X app crashing, shares interim solution appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung updates One UI software rollout roadmap – May 2026

Samsung will roll out many new updates in May 2026. Earlier today, the company published the details of its latest security patch. At the same time, Samsung has also refreshed the update eligibility chart for Galaxy users.

The Monthly Samsung Updates list is identical in April 2026 and May 2026; no additions, removals, or transfers. Three devices were dropped entirely from the Quarterly list, including the Galaxy A13, Galaxy A23, and Galaxy M33 5G.

May is going to be a crucial month for Samsung fans. The next few weeks will be dedicated to endless software rollouts. Stable One UI 8.5 update is expected to land on various devices, potentially carrying May patches.

Current Models for Monthly Security Updates

Samsung’s new foldable phones, Galaxy S series flagships and select Enterprise models will continue to receive new software updates every month.

Galaxy Foldable Series

  • Galaxy Z TriFold
  • Galaxy Z Fold4, Galaxy Z Fold5, Galaxy Z Fold6, Galaxy Z Fold7, Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition
  • Galaxy Z Flip4, Galaxy Z Flip5, Galaxy Z Flip6, Galaxy Z Flip7, Galaxy Z Flip7 FE
  • W23, W23 Flip, W24, W24 Flip, W25, W25 Flip, W26

Galaxy S Series

  • Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26+, Galaxy S26 Ultra
  • Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, Galaxy S25 Ultra, Galaxy S25 Edge, Galaxy S25 FE
  • Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, Galaxy S24 Ultra, Galaxy S24 FE
  • Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, Galaxy S23 Ultra, Galaxy S23 FE

Enterprise Models

  • Galaxy A54 5G, Galaxy A55 5G, Galaxy A56 5G, Galaxy A57 5G
  • Galaxy Tab Active5 Pro
  • Galaxy XCover6 Pro, Galaxy XCover7, Galaxy XCover7 Pro

Current Models for Quarterly Security Updates

After a certain period, Samsung transfers models from the monthly to the quarterly tier. Apart from this, the company’s mid-range and budget phones receive updates once every three months.

Galaxy Foldable Series

  • Galaxy Z Fold3 5G
  • Galaxy Z Flip3 5G

Galaxy S Series

  • Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22+, Galaxy S22 Ultra
  • Galaxy S21 FE 5G

Galaxy A Series

  • Galaxy A04, Galaxy A04s, Galaxy A04e, Galaxy A05, Galaxy A05s, Galaxy A06, Galaxy A06 5G, Galaxy A07, Galaxy A07 5G
  • Galaxy A14, Galaxy A14 5G, Galaxy A15, Galaxy A15 5G, Galaxy A16, Galaxy A16 5G, Galaxy A17, Galaxy A17 5G
  • Galaxy A23 5G, Galaxy A24, Galaxy A25 5G, Galaxy A26 5G
  • Galaxy A33 5G, Galaxy A34 5G, Galaxy A35 5G, Galaxy A36 5G, Galaxy A37 5G
  • Galaxy A73 5G

Galaxy C Series

  • Galaxy C55 5G

Galaxy M Series

  • Galaxy M04, Galaxy M05, Galaxy M06 5G, Galaxy M07
  • Galaxy M13, Galaxy M13 5G, Galaxy M14, Galaxy M14 5G, Galaxy M15 5G, Galaxy M16 5G, Galaxy M17 5G, Galaxy M17e 5G
  • Galaxy M34 5G, Galaxy M35 5G, Galaxy M36 5G
  • Galaxy M44 5G
  • Galaxy M53 5G, Galaxy M54 5G, Galaxy M55 5G, Galaxy M55s 5G, Galaxy M56 5G

Galaxy F Series

  • Galaxy F04, Galaxy F05, Galaxy F06 5G, Galaxy F07, Galaxy F70e 5G
  • Galaxy F13, Galaxy F14, Galaxy F14 5G, Galaxy F15 5G, Galaxy F16 5G, Galaxy F17 5G
    Galaxy F34 5G, Galaxy F36 5G
  • Galaxy F54 5G, Galaxy F55 5G, Galaxy F56 5G

Galaxy Tab S Series

  • Galaxy Tab S11, Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra
  • Galaxy Tab S10+, Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, Galaxy Tab S10 FE, Galaxy Tab S10 FE+, Galaxy Tab S10 Lite
  • Galaxy Tab S9, Galaxy Tab S9+, Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, Galaxy Tab S9 FE, Galaxy Tab S9 FE+
  • Galaxy Tab S8, Galaxy Tab S8+, Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
  • Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2024)

Galaxy Tab A Series

  • Galaxy Tab A11, Galaxy Tab A11+
  • Galaxy Tab A9, Galaxy Tab A9+, Galaxy Tab A9+(2025)

Enterprise Models

  • Galaxy A53 5G
  • Galaxy Tab Active4 Pro, Galaxy Tab Active5
  • Galaxy XCover5

The post Samsung updates One UI software rollout roadmap – May 2026 appeared first on Sammy Fans.

One UI 9 Beta emerges for Galaxy S26 Ultra as Samsung looks beyond One UI 8.5

Samsung just silently uploaded Android 17-based One UI 9 Beta build on its software server, and it’s for the Galaxy S26 Ultra. While users await wider One UI 8.5 availability, Samsung is already jumping to the next era of One UI.

X user Kailash first spotted the internal One UI 9 Beta for Galaxy S26 Ultra, and it was later verified by tipster TarunVats. The Beta Program isn’t open to users, but the development suggests it isn’t too far now.

Samsung listed S948BXXU2ZZE7 on its OTA server. The lasting character ZZE7 confirms the build’s Beta nature. Internal testing will continue for a few weeks, and the build version will change with each major change.

Galaxy S26 series is the primary contender for Samsung’s software testing program this year. Previous generation models will join the party, but the priority will be offered to this year’s flagship smartphone lineup.

One UI 9 is based on Android 17, and the new operating system is expected to be detailed on May 12 at The Android Show 2026. Google I/O will bring even more details about the features and rollout timeline for Pixel users.

Expect Samsung to launch One UI 9 Beta Program within a month. The participation could open by the end of May or the beginning of June in South Korea. Users in Germany, India, Poland, the UK and the US should also be eligible.

The official One UI 9 will debut with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 in July. Meanwhile, the Beta Program will continue to stay live. The Public One UI 9 rollout is expected to start sometime in September or October this year.

The post One UI 9 Beta emerges for Galaxy S26 Ultra as Samsung looks beyond One UI 8.5 appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung’s May 2026 update packs 39 Galaxy fixes

It looks like Samsung was waiting for Google to open the May 2026 update rollout. Soon after Pixel phones started getting the May 2026 update, Samsung revealed the details of its latest security patch, bringing 39 Galaxy fixes.

May 2026 security patch from Samsung has 39 fixes for Galaxy devices. It includes 10 from Samsung and 29 from Google. Two more patches are in Android bulletin, which are either not applicable or already patched.

May 2026 Galaxy update details

Among the 29 Android CVEs, two were labeled “critical,” whereas twenty-seven were labeled “high.” Additionally, one was already included in previous updates, and one does not apply to Samsung devices.

Critical – 2

  • CVE-2026-0051, CVE-2026-0073

High – 27

  • CVE-2025-32348, CVE-2025-47401, CVE-2025-47403, CVE-2025-48570, CVE-2025-48615, CVE-2025-48652, CVE-2026-0061, CVE-2026-0062, CVE-2026-0063,
  • CVE-2026-0065, CVE-2026-0069, CVE-2026-0070, CVE-2026-0074, CVE-2026-0075, CVE-2026-0076, CVE-2026-0077, CVE-2026-0078, CVE-2026-0085,
  • CVE-2026-0086, CVE-2026-0087, CVE-2026-0088, CVE-2026-0089, CVE-2026-20447, CVE-2026-20448, CVE-2026-20449, CVE-2026-20450, CVE-2026-24085

Moderate

  • None

Already included in previous updates – 1

  • CVE-2025-48605

Not applicable to Samsung devices – 1

  • CVE-2026-24089

One UI-specific SVE items

The inclusion of 10 One UI-specific SVE items aims to ensure peak security on Galaxy devices. Samsung Semiconductor, which often brings Exynos-specific patches, has not joined the Galaxy bulletin this month.

Meanwhile, the South Korean phone maker specifically mentioned that some of the SVE items may not be included in this package, in case these items were already included in a previous maintenance release.

High

SVE-2026-0483(CVE-2026-21019)
Affected versions: Android Watch 14, 16

Moderate

SVE-2025-2186(CVE-2026-21021)
Affected versions: Android 16

SVE-2026-0086(CVE-2026-21015)
Affected versions: Android 14, 15, 16

SVE-2026-0230(CVE-2026-21016)
Affected versions: Android 14, 15, 16

SVE-2026-0252(CVE-2026-21022)
Affected versions: Android 15, 16

SVE-2026-0478(CVE-2026-21018)
Affected versions: Android 14, 15, 16

SVE-2026-0623(CVE-2026-21020)
Affected versions: Android 14, 15, 16

Pay attention, Samsung says 10 SVE items are included, but details of only seven items have been provided. The footnote reads “Some SVE items included in the Samsung Android Security Update cannot be disclosed at this time.”

The post Samsung’s May 2026 update packs 39 Galaxy fixes appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Google schedules Android Show ahead of I/O 2026, Android 17 and AI upgrades expected

Google has now officially confirmed that the “Android Show: I/O Edition” will stream on May 12, days before I/O 2026 officially kicks off.

Not many details are available, but the messaging is clear. Google is calling 2026 one of the most important years in Android’s history, which points directly to Android 17.

Expect a tighter focus on usability rather than headline-grabbing redesigns. Early reports suggest features like controller remapping and improved multitasking through floating app bubbles.

Google’s Gemini push is evolving into what it calls “agentic AI.” The Android Show will likely preview how deeply Gemini integrates at the OS level.

The Mountain View giant has promised smarter assistants for years, but consistency across devices remains a weak spot. If Android 17 is serious about AI, it needs tighter control over how these features behave across different OEM skins.

Hardware could also make an appearance: Google’s Android XR initiative, introduced last year, is still in its early phase, with smart glasses being the more interesting angle.

The Android Show is not just another livestream. It is a signal of where Google wants Android to go in 2026. For Samsung fans, it’s as crucial as Pixel fans as the upcoming One UI 9 will be based on the Android 17 operating system.

The post Google schedules Android Show ahead of I/O 2026, Android 17 and AI upgrades expected appeared first on Sammy Fans.

One UI 8.5 progress hits final stage, but one UI glitch remains

Samsung’s One UI 8.5 update is close to perfection, but one UI glitch is still unresolved. We discovered the same problem in the Beta 6 around two months back, and the same repeated in the Beta 10 as well.

The Notification panel brings a button entitled Notification settings. This functional button lets Galaxy users access the settings page. That specific component has a bug, which Samsung hasn’t yet addressed.

The bug doesn’t permanently stay here, and we were not able to reproduce it either. It occurs suddenly while using the phone, hinting that the final build hasn’t even patched the glitch.

The Notification settings button turns smaller and takes a wrong positioning. The small button slides toward the right side, which isn’t the center either. Swiping the notification panel brings the key back to its optimal state.

It’s said that Samsung is holding off the Stable update’s rollout due to major bugs. If this UI glitch falls under that category, it should be addressed in the official build. If not, Samsung engineers aren’t paying attention to the issues.

Samsung One UI 8.5 Notification Panel Resolution Bug

Image – Notification panel in One UI 8.5

Notification panel is one of the most heavily used aspects of the mobile user interface. The scaling bug isn’t a deal breaker at all, but it ruins the perfection. We’ve submitted the bug report as well, yet Beta 10 has the same problem.

Hopefully, Samsung would finally bring improvement to the user interface scaling. The Stable update should be almost perfect as the company has already tested the software in the Open Beta Program for five months.

The post One UI 8.5 progress hits final stage, but one UI glitch remains appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung News evolves in the US with short videos, premium publishers

Samsung News is getting updated with support for short videos alongside premium publishers in the US. With these updates, the company’s news aggregator app is taking the traditional reading experience to the next level.

Now, Samsung News will offer short videos and content from credible publishers in the US. The update is now rolling out across devices, bringing a mix of premium journalism and quick-hit video content into one streamlined feed.

Short videos

A new short-form video carousel now sits inside the app, serving up bite-sized clips across categories like news, sports, finance, lifestyle, and entertainment.

The initial lineup includes content from outlets like ABC News, PEOPLE, Allrecipes, EatingWell, and Entertainment Weekly, among others. These clips are curated by Samsung’s editorial team, not just pulled in randomly.

Premium publishers

Samsung is doubling down on trusted, mainstream publishers to make its curated feed more credible and useful.

Users will now see content from names like ABC News, USA TODAY, The Washington Post, and PEOPLE integrated directly into Samsung News.

Sports and finance coverage is powered by Yahoo Media Group, which fills in the gaps with real-time updates and broader coverage.

The curation feels tighter, and the sources are the kind you would actually trust for daily updates. It is also a smart move for users who do not want to juggle multiple apps.

“Galaxy users consume news in different ways, whether it’s through quick video updates or in-depth reporting,” said Maya Harris, VP & Head of Strategic Partnerships for Samsung’s TV & Mobile Services. “We’re continuing to evolve Samsung News to meet those needs, with more formats, more trusted sources and a personalized experience that puts the day’s most important stories front and center.”

Related article:

The post Samsung News evolves in the US with short videos, premium publishers appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Select Samsung phones seeing faster bi-monthly updates

Samsung is delivering faster bi-monthly software updates to its Galaxy A-series phones. In most cases, the company is offering more security patches than scheduled, and that’s all happening without any flashy press release.

Samsung’s software update story has been easy to praise at the flagship level. Monthly patches, long-term support, tight rollout windows. That’s expected now. What’s not expected is what’s quietly happening in the mid-range segment.

Quarterly promise, bi-monthly reality

Most mid-range Galaxy A devices sit on a quarterly update schedule. That means one security patch every three months. It’s a clear downgrade compared to the Galaxy S and Galaxy Z lines, and even the A5x models that enjoy monthly updates.

A recent analysis of Galaxy A devices launched since 2022 shows that many of these phones are getting updates roughly every two months. In some cases, even more frequently, which puts them much closer to a bi-monthly frequency.

Devices like the A33, A34, A35, and even the newer A36 are leading this trend. The Galaxy A36, in particular, stands out as it received eight updates since launch, which is double what you would expect if Samsung followed its schedule.

Galaxy A13 5G and Galaxy A23 are closer to the promised update frequency, though they still edge slightly above expectations. On the flip side, the Galaxy A14 4G had a rough patch, especially during early 2025 when updates lagged.

So yes, there are inconsistencies, but Samsung is over-delivering more often than not. It’s a rare win for users who don’t spend flagship money.

The post Select Samsung phones seeing faster bi-monthly updates appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Google Play system update: May 2026 – Here’s everything new

April 2026’s Play system update has just started rolling out to Samsung phones and Google has now published the content of the May 2026 version.

Google’s early May 2026 updates for Play services and the Play Store are fairly minor but still add a few useful touches.

Google Play system update –  May 2026

With Google Play services v26.17, the most notable change is a new warning screen that appears when signing in with a Dasher account on Android desktop devices.

Developers also get a fresh set of tools across Auto, PC, phones, TVs, and Wear OS to better support utility-related features in their apps. Meanwhile, Google Wallet quietly gets bug fixes to improve reliability.

On the Play Store side (v51.3), Google is making its Sidekick feature easier to access by letting users open it directly from the notification drawer.

There’s also a small but meaningful expansion for gamers, who can now ask questions and share tips in more languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, Indonesian, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.


This is not the end of the content that the May 2026 update will bring to the users. Google will continue to update its release page with fresh content. As for the rollout, there’s no tentative timeline as these updates work differently.

Samsung users can expect the May Play system update by the end of the month or early next month. If you’re on One UI 8.5 Beta, your device may struggle to fetch new releases as Beta firmware breaks compatibility.

The post Google Play system update: May 2026 – Here’s everything new appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Gemini gets design refresh and model picker on Android

Google is upgrading the Gemini app on Android with a design refresh and model picker. It follows the recent distribution on the iOS channel. There’s a mixed reaction from users after seeing the visuals available on X.

Model picker

Gemini app’s header now features a model picker with a drop-down button. Hitting the arrow would present the available models to users. It expands the app’s usability while making it easier to change the execution mechanism.

Design refresh

Gemini’s various buttons are getting a subtle tweak in order to increase visibility. The hamburger menu stays separate on the left, while the right side has three buttons together, including:

  1. New chat
  2. Share conversation
  3. More (expand options)

These new design tweaks don’t just make Gemini visually appealing, but also enhance the overall experience. The conversation section is also seeing application of subtle colorways in both light and dark modes.

The rollout may be sequential, and you may receive it days later. Keep the Gemini app updated to the latest version alongside the main Google app and the phone’s Google Play system update.

It can also be a server-side rollout, which means users may not see the new design on the latest version. In that case, waiting for the expansion is the only option left as Google maintains a phased rollout rather than broader.

Gemini Android Redesign

Source – AssembleDebug /X

The post Gemini gets design refresh and model picker on Android appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Galaxy S26 Ultra getting 24MP camera improvement in more regions

Samsung has finally expanded the second April 2026 update to the Galaxy S26 series, which brings 24MP camera improvement for the Ultra model.

A couple of days ago, Samsung started the rollout of the second April firmware in South Korea. It followed the release in the US, but the Korean build included fixes for the close-up camera problems tied to 24MP mode.

Now, users of Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra are getting a camera improvement that refines the 24MP mode experience. It’s coming as part of another incremental update carrying the April patch, despite releasing in May 2026.

Users reported camera behaviour problems while capturing 24MP shots. The processed image was getting cropped from one side. The preview was optimal, but the bug in processing caused the final image to be broken.

Samsung faced countless reports in its community and online forums. One UI staff acted swiftly and prepared the fix on an immediate note. Now, the rollout is expanding to more regions, with European users getting it today, via TarunVats.

Galaxy S26 and S26 Plus are also receiving the 2nd April update, but the 24MP camera is limited to the Ultra version. Still, the firmware is expected to improve the overall camera experience on the latest Samsung flagship phones.

The firmware AZDE is available across European countries, with a Global expansion likely soon. To get the latest update, head over to the system Settings, followed by Software update page and hit Download and install.

The post Galaxy S26 Ultra getting 24MP camera improvement in more regions appeared first on Sammy Fans.

One UI 9 leak reveals Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold8 Wide design

Samsung is working on One UI 9 and the firmware also features visuals of the upcoming foldable phones: Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Fold8 Wide.

The new foldable phones are reportedly being unveiled on July 22 in London. Earlier, we’ve seen their potential design in leaked CAD renders. Now, the One UI 9 software itself revealed the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Fold8 Wide.

The pictures surfaced in One UI 9 look familiar to the leaked renders. The appearance of the devices confirms their monikers, including the Galaxy Z Fold 8 (codenamed Q8) and Galaxy Z Fold8 Wide (codenamed H8).

Galaxy Z Fold 8 looks identical to its predecessor. We may see upgrades in build quality, screen crease, and hinge technology. Major aspects, such as thickness and weight, would also see a slight generational improvement.

Galaxy Z Fold8 Wide comes with a camera design familiar to the S25 Edge. It has a dual camera setup on the back, surrounded by a camera bump. The LED flashlight isn’t shown in the visuals, but they were in CAD renders.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold8 Wide

Image – Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold8 Wide spotted in One UI 9

Samsung is also working on the Galaxy Z Flip 8. The next clamshell foldable phone may be almost the same as its predecessor. However, the device may use a new hinge technology for better durability and crease resistance.

The Fold 8 and Flip 8 will succeed their predecessors and continue the portfolio. Meanwhile, the Fold8 Wide is coming to compete with Apple’s first foldable. The form factor is like a passport to deliver more practical usability.

The post One UI 9 leak reveals Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Fold8 Wide design appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung could make Apple iPhone processors

Samsung could produce iPhone processors as Apple quietly explores alternatives to TSMC amid supply chain risks and geopolitical shifts reshaping its chip strategy.

According to Bloomberg, Apple has held early discussions with both Samsung Electronics and Intel about manufacturing the processors that power the iPhone.

For years, TSMC has been Apple’s undisputed partner for advanced chips. That relationship still stands strong, yet it also represents a single point of failure.

Geopolitical tensions around Taiwan, combined with periodic capacity crunches, have turned that reliance into a strategic risk. Apple felt it recently; supply constraints limited iPhone shipments, and even Tim Cook acknowledged the pressure.

Apple executives have reportedly visited Samsung’s upcoming fab in Taylor, Texas. A US-based production line offers geographic diversification, something Apple has been steadily pushing across its entire supply chain.

Samsung moved early to Gate-All-Around transistor architecture at the 3nm node, and is pushing further toward 2nm. On paper, that is a meaningful leap over the FinFET approach still used elsewhere.

Samsung has struggled with yields, and that gap has kept Apple firmly tied to TSMC so far. If the Korean company can stabilize production at scale, GAA could become the hook Apple needs to justify a split strategy.

Intel, meanwhile, represents a different kind of gamble. Its foundry ambitions are growing, but it is still playing catch-up in the ultra-advanced node race.

The post Samsung could make Apple iPhone processors appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Galaxy S26 Ultra narrowly misses top 10 as iPhone 17 leads Q1 2026 sales

Apple’s iPhone 17 series led the worldwide smartphone sales in Q1 2026 as the Galaxy S26 Ultra narrowly missed entry in the top 10 chart.

iPhone 17 captured 6 percent of global unit sales to become the world’s best-selling smartphone in Q1 2026. Apple seized four spots, Samsung dominated with five, with one going to Xiaomi for its entry level smartphone.

According to Counterpoint Research, Apple’s iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and iPhone 17 Pro were the top 3 best-selling phones in Q1 2026. Samsung dominated the top 10 chart with the highest five entries, but no flagship was included.

Galaxy A07 4G, Galaxy A17 5G, Galaxy A56, Galaxy A36, and Galaxy A17 4G were the five entries from Samsung world. Xiaomi’s Redmi also managed to enter the list, though in the 10th spot, due to its Redmi 5 phone.

Samsung’s Galaxy S26 series is selling better than its predecessor. Still, none of the flagship models were able to make an entry into the top 10. The reason is the launch window, which favored Apple in the first quarter.

Galaxy S26 series was launched in late February, and worldwide sales began in the second week of March 2026. The first quarter ended on March 31, leaving no significant timespan for the Samsung flagships to sell at scale.

The chart of the second quarter should include at least one model from the Galaxy S26 series. Apple has historically dominated the best-selling segment. Meanwhile, Samsung leads the charge of keeping Android relevant.

Galaxy A07 4G from Samsung was the world’s best-selling Android phone in the first quarter. The device received high contribution from emerging regions like the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America.

Commenting on outlook, Senior Analyst Karn Chauhan said, “Looking ahead to 2026, the top 10 smartphone models are expected to expand their share of global unit sales. The anticipated market decline is likely to impact mass-market segments more significantly, while high-end smartphones continue to gain share. In response, OEMs are shifting focus toward premium portfolios, prioritizing value over volume.”

Q1 2026 Top 10 Best Selling Phones

Image – Q1 2026 Top 10 Best Selling Phones | Source – Counterpoint Research

The post Galaxy S26 Ultra narrowly misses top 10 as iPhone 17 leads Q1 2026 sales appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung phones getting April 2026 Google Play system update

Samsung phones have started receiving the April 2026 Google Play system update. The sequential rollout began for a wide range of Galaxy devices, including phones, foldable models, and tablets.

The latest Google Play system update, hitting Samsung phones install the April 2026 version (via Kailash). This release elevates the core Android experience, thanks to its broad range of content and enhancements.

Here’s what actually matters in April’s Google Play system updates if you’re using a Samsung phone:

Google is quietly laying the groundwork for smoother sign-ins and device setup. Transferring your data from an old phone should feel quicker and less clunky now, especially when moving accounts and settings.

The Play Store is seeing some practical improvements. You’ll now spot clearer content ratings with an additional view, which makes it easier to judge apps before installing. There’s also a new badge for apps optimized for large screens.

Subscriptions are more transparent, too, since you can now see the plans inside app reviews. Some app install prompts will no longer throw you into the Play Store unexpectedly, which should make the experience feel less disruptive.

On the Wallet side, there are a few subtle but useful tweaks. There’s a redesigned interface focused on quicker access and better discovery, along with more control over how your passes interact with other Google services like Autofill.

Location accuracy has been improved, which should benefit everything from Maps to weather apps. Security and privacy updates are, as usual, baked in. WebView and Play services updates bring ongoing fixes and protections.

Lastly, there are a bunch of under-the-hood improvements. Device connectivity, system performance, and stability have all been tuned across phones, wearables, TVs, and even cars.

Overall, this isn’t a headline-grabbing update, but it’s a meaningful one.

The post Samsung phones getting April 2026 Google Play system update appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung unveils Flex Chroma Pixel smartphone display with 3,000 nits brightness and enhanced color accuracy

At Display Week 2026, Samsung Display pulled the wraps off its new Flex Chroma Pixel OLED, a smartphone panel that pushes brightness to 3,000 nits while dramatically improving color accuracy.

If this display technology makes its way into upcoming Galaxy flagships, we’re looking at a serious leap in outdoor visibility and true-to-life visuals.

The headline number is that 3,000 nits peak brightness in High Brightness Mode. Samsung is pairing that with BT.2020-96 color gamut coverage, which is where things get interesting.

BT.2020 is the gold standard for color in UHD and HDR content. It covers a much wider range than the DCI-P3 space used in most smartphones today, roughly 1.7 times broader.

Most phone displays only hit around 70 percent of that range, whereas Samsung’s Flex Chroma Pixel jumps to 96 percent, which is a massive jump.

Inside Samsung’s Flex Chroma Pixel

Samsung Display is using a new material approach called phosphorescent sensitized fluorescence, or PSF. This helps improve how OLED pixels emit light, leading to better color purity without sacrificing efficiency.

Then there’s LEAD, Samsung’s proprietary polarizer-free OLED tech. Some recent panels have boosted color accuracy, but at the cost of peak brightness.

Samsung is claiming it doesn’t have to make that trade-off anymore. With LEAD, the panel maintains high brightness, wide color gamut, and long lifespan all at once.

This is exactly the kind of tech that tends to trickle down into Galaxy S and Galaxy Z devices over time. It might not land immediately in the next release cycle, but the direction is clear.

Samsung Display Flex Chroma Pixel

The post Samsung unveils Flex Chroma Pixel smartphone display with 3,000 nits brightness and enhanced color accuracy appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Galaxy Watch 8 and Ultra buyers in the US can claim a free Withings smart scale

Starting May 4 through July 19, 2026, Samsung is offering a free Withings Body Smart scale to customers who buy a full-priced Galaxy Watch Ultra, Galaxy Watch 8 Classic, Galaxy Watch 8, or even the older Watch 7.

Samsung has quietly rolled out one of its more practical bundle deals in recent months, and it is clearly aimed at people who take health tracking seriously.

If you are planning to pick up a new Galaxy Watch, there is now a solid extra waiting on the other side of checkout. You have to buy directly from Samsung, as this is not something you will find at Amazon or carrier stores.

The Withings scale retails for about $130, which makes this more than just a token freebie. For those on the fence, that extra piece of hardware might be enough to tip the decision.

The Galaxy Watch already tracks heart rate, sleep, activity, and more through Samsung Health. What it cannot do on its own is measure body composition in detail at home. That is where the Withings scale fills the gap.

Withings Smart Body Scale

Withings scale tracks body fat, muscle mass, weight, and even visceral fat. When you combine that data with what the watch collects throughout the day, the result is a much clearer picture of your overall health.

There is a small delay in how you receive the freebie.

Samsung will email a redemption code around 15 days after your watch is delivered, once the return window has passed. You then use that code on Withings’ website to claim the scale.

The post Galaxy Watch 8 and Ultra buyers in the US can claim a free Withings smart scale appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung app bug disables gesture input after screenshots, fix coming

Samsung has acknowledged a bug in its One Hand Operation + app that breaks gesture input after taking screenshots. A fix is already in the works and will arrive via an upcoming app update.

The issue surfaced on Samsung’s Korean community forums (via MojoTrick), where users reported that custom gestures stop responding immediately after a screen capture.

For context, One Hand Operation + is part of Samsung’s Good Lock suite. The app expands One UI navigation with edge-based gesture controls, allowing users to assign shortcuts for back, recent apps, quick tools, and more.

The problem is specific but disruptive. After taking a screenshot, gesture inputs configured through One Hand Operation + freeze. Swipes from the screen edges fail to trigger any assigned actions.

The rest of the system remains functional, but gesture-based navigation effectively stops working until the UI resets or the app recovers. For users who rely on these gestures daily, it breaks core usability.

A Samsung Community moderator has confirmed the root cause.

According to the official response, the issue is tied to how the app handles “gesture handles” during screen capture. When a color is assigned to these handles, the system hides them to prevent them from appearing in screenshots.

That behavior is currently flawed, causing the handles to disappear in a way that also disables gesture detection. There is no exact release date yet, but the fix is expected in the next software rollout for One Hand Operation +.

The moderator added that Samsung is reviewing a change to make these handles transparent instead of hidden, which should resolve the UX bug without interfering with screenshots.

The post Samsung app bug disables gesture input after screenshots, fix coming appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Galaxy S27 Ultra tipped to feature 200MP camera with variable aperture

Samsung might finally be waking up, with the Galaxy S27 Ultra tipped to bring back variable aperture on its rumored 200MP camera.

The Galaxy S27 Ultra is reportedly bringing variable aperture back, paired with a 200MP sensor. Not just any sensor, but likely the ISOCELL HP6, as per Weibo leaker SmartPikachu reported.

Variable aperture paired with a refined 200MP sensor and LOFIC could finally move the conversation beyond megapixels. Better low light, more natural bokeh, and cleaner HDR; real flexibility instead of computational guesswork.

Samsung’s Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus had a dual aperture system that could physically switch between f1.5 and f2.4. Meanwhile, the company quietly dropped it, chased megapixels like everyone else, and now suddenly, it’s cool again.

Let’s be honest, 200MP stopped being exciting a while ago. It’s marketing at this point; pixel binning does the real work, and most people end up with 12MP shots anyway.

LOFIC tech to join variable aperture

Samsung’s LOFIC tech, short for Lateral Overflow Integration Capacitor, is the real story here. It allows the sensor to handle high dynamic range in a single exposure by storing excess charge from bright areas separately.

Now combine that with variable aperture. You’re not just relying on software anymore. You are physically controlling how much light hits the sensor.

For years, Samsung had the tech. It built it first. Then it walked away. And suddenly, with rumors heating up around the iPhone 18 potentially adopting variable aperture, Samsung is back on board.

Samsung leads, then drifts, then snaps back the moment Apple shows interest. We’ve seen this pattern before. And it’s frustrating, because Samsung doesn’t need validation. It has already proved this concept works.

If Samsung executes this properly, the Galaxy S27 Ultra could be more than just another spec monster.

The post Galaxy S27 Ultra tipped to feature 200MP camera with variable aperture appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung closes historic chapter with $8 billion inheritance tax

Samsung family has now fully settled the $8 billion inheritance tax tied to the estate of late Chairman Lee Kun-hee, wrapping up a multi-year obligation that reshaped both the company’s leadership era and its public image.

Roughly 12 trillion won, or about $8 billion, has been paid over five years through six installments. The process began in 2021 and quietly concluded this year. The amount is about 50 percent higher than Korea’s entire inheritance tax revenue in 2024.

The payments were handled by the late chairman’s immediate family, including Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong, along with Hong Ra-hee, Lee Boo-jin, and Lee Seo-hyun.

For Samsung, this was never just about clearing dues. It was about stabilizing ownership, maintaining control, and ensuring a smooth transition at the top of one of the world’s most influential tech conglomerates.

Parallel to these payments, the family committed around 1 trillion won to public welfare, particularly in healthcare. A major portion went into building Korea’s first dedicated infectious disease hospital through the National Medical Center.

The post Samsung closes historic chapter with $8 billion inheritance tax appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung’s SiC plans could shape more efficient chips

Samsung has restarted work on its SiC foundry push, a move that could ripple far beyond power semiconductors and into everything from EVs to your next Galaxy device.

Rewind to 2023, Samsung had SiC on the table alongside its GaN ambitions, but the broader chip slump and a pressing need to stabilize its memory business forced a slowdown.

Recent talks with materials suppliers and equipment vendors suggest the company is no longer testing the waters. It is lining up a supply chain; there are even early conversations around tool capacity, which usually come later in the cycle.

This looks like a shift from “explore” to “prepare.” The target is 2028 for mass production, which sounds distant, but in semiconductor terms, it is almost aggressive, especially for a segment where process maturity still lags traditional silicon.

Unlike advanced logic, where 12-inch dominates, SiC is still transitioning from 6-inch to 8-inch wafers. That makes 8-inch the cutting edge in this niche. For Samsung, it is a rare alignment of old infrastructure and new demand.

SiC handles higher voltages and temperatures with less energy loss. That is why it is showing up in EV drivetrains, fast chargers, solar inverters, and increasingly, data center power systems tied to AI workloads.

SiC will not sit inside an application processor anytime soon, but it can influence charging circuits, power management ICs, and even infrastructure behind cloud services that Galaxy devices rely on.

The post Samsung’s SiC plans could shape more efficient chips appeared first on Sammy Fans.

One UI 9 gives the Media Player a color-driven redesign

Samsung’s Media Player is about to grab a color-driven redesign in the One UI 9 update. Samsung has upgraded this aspect in the One UI 8.5, which is expected to start rolling out to Galaxy S25 smartphone users this week.

One UI 9 is based on Android 17, and Samsung is preparing a color-packed redesign for the Media Player. Some users have installed the firmware on their devices, with TarunVats bringing fans early looks at the upcoming changes.

At present, Galaxy’s Media Player features a static and predictable look.

Samsung really nailed the little details here. The new seek bar now pulls colors straight from the album art of whatever you’re playing. Put on a smooth jazz track with cool blue tones, and the UI subtly shifts to match that vibe.

Switch over to a bright, punchy pop song, and everything updates instantly. It’s a small touch on paper, but in everyday use, it makes the lock screen and notifications feel way more alive and in sync with what you’re listening to.

Samsung One UI 9 Media Player Redesign

Media Player is the aspect we see more often than others. Reinventing its user interface is a bold decision to make. Samsung is finally putting efforts in the right spots, which directly influence the software’s boldness.

Samsung is internally working on One UI 9, with the Public Beta testing expected to launch by the end of May or the beginning of June. The new software will first land on the Galaxy S26 series, while its official debut is likely in late July.

The post One UI 9 gives the Media Player a color-driven redesign appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung Notes OS compatibility mess to vanish soon

Across older Galaxy phones, tablets, and even Galaxy Book laptops, Samsung Notes has been stuck in a frustrating OS compatibility loop that asks users to update the app, but offers no update in the store.

Samsung’s ecosystem pitch hits a wall when core apps stop syncing properly, and that is exactly what some Galaxy users are dealing with right now. Just a dead-end “Run” button and no way forward.

Older devices are essentially locked out due to version mismatches, a classic case of ecosystem fragmentation when newer builds of an app move faster than legacy OS support.

It is not the first time Samsung Notes has struggled with cross-device syncing consistency, especially when bridging Android and Windows environments.

Samsung’s Notes team has now responded

According to the official reply, a mobile update targeting devices running OS version O (Oreo/Android 8 and above) is scheduled to roll out within this week.

The next Samsung Notes update should address the compatibility gap for older Galaxy smartphones and tablets, at least on the Android side.

PC situation is less reassuring

The moderator confirmed that the Galaxy Book version of Samsung Notes still does not have a finalized update schedule. If you rely on syncing notes between your phone and laptop, this gap is hard to ignore.

Additionally, Samsung’s NOTES Manager pointed to additional internal updates and last-minute variables as reasons why firm dates keep slipping.

For now, all eyes are on this week’s mobile update. If it lands as promised, older Galaxy devices should regain proper access to Samsung Notes.

The post Samsung Notes OS compatibility mess to vanish soon appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung preparing to unveil One UI 8.5 roadmap ahead of rollout

Looks like Samsung will first unveil the One UI 8.5 roadmap before starting the Stable update’s rollout. The software may start rolling out on Wednesday, as the May 4 release window could be avoided due to regional considerations.

Samsung users are quite frustrated due to a lack of communication. As always, Samsung is refraining from revealing a release timeline. Well, an online chat with a Samsung representative brought some good news.

Chat support declined to give a timeline, but hinted that the One UI 8.5 roadmap will be published under the Notice section of the Members app.

Roadmap is a well-crafted chart that carries an update schedule for various devices. Samsung usually sticks to its rollout plans unless a major flaw is identified. That said, the roadmap will be a crucial development in One UI 8.5 story.

Update windows differ for markets, carriers, and other aspects. South Korea has become the prime spot for Samsung’s updates. Germany previously led the way along with Korea, but Samsung now prefers its home ground.

Samsung One UI 8.5 Update Roadmap

Our assumptions point to May 6 for South Korea, followed by Global markets within a week. A Canadian moderator ruled out the possibility of a simultaneous rollout for a wide range of models, so an undefined delay is likely.

Samsung is currently running the One UI 8.5 Beta Program. The testing activity is live for plenty of Galaxy devices, including flagships, foldables, tablets, and mid-range models.

Unlike the Galaxy S25 series, the Beta Program has limited availability for other models. Some are available in six markets, while others are capped to either Korea or India.

The post Samsung preparing to unveil One UI 8.5 roadmap ahead of rollout appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung may not release Stable One UI 8.5 today – Here’s why

Stable One UI 8.5 missed its April 30 release window, and May 4 may meet the same fate. Samsung hasn’t released the rollout roadmap either. This is not the treatment Galaxy loyalists deserve, even for a mid-cycle software update.

It was initially rumored that Stable One UI 8.5 may release on April 30 in Korea and on May 4 in the Global market. It’s May 4 today, and the update rollout hasn’t begun yet; meanwhile, inputs suggest another potential delay.

Here’s why Samsung could skip the One UI 8.5 release today

April 30 window was reportedly avoided due to the Labour Day holiday on the following date. Now, May 4 looks to be sidelined as well, given South Korea’s Children’s Day holiday on May 5 [source].

Wednesday, the day after tomorrow, is now shaping up to be the strongest contender for the release of Stable One UI 8.5 update. Samsung usually drops major updates on either Monday or Wednesday; that said, we may see the rollout on May 6.

Avoiding release around non-working days is a strategic move. In case the software faces a severe flaw, the expansion should be paused. If the staff are on holiday, the penetration can’t be controlled, and the damage can be worse.

Galaxy S25 users in six countries have already received a near-stable build as the 10th Beta. Several new AI features have also been installed. Samsung may have also prepared for the prime time, and it could finally be Wednesday.

Note that the timeline hasn’t been confirmed by Samsung. The information is based on facts and inputs in the community forums. The company could even surprise its fans today by starting the rollout for the Galaxy S25 series.

The post Samsung may not release Stable One UI 8.5 today – Here’s why appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 may be crease-free, lighter and pricier

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 will launch in July 2026, but a new leak has already revealed the potential design upgrades and a price increase.

Galaxy Z Flip 8 will land alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Wide this year. In 2025, the book-style foldable phone surpassed the clamshell foldable phone for the first time, and the streak could continue in 2026.

Galaxy Z Flip 8 gets subtle design upgrades

Samsung’s next Flip phone is getting subtle design upgrades. The device may feature a slightly increased horizontal width. It will be paired with a new hinge solution, which will make it around half mm thinner when folded.

Galaxy Z Flip 7 is 188 grams, while the Flip 8 is expected to be around 180 grams. Samsung is also continuing its efforts to reduce the display crease, with the Galaxy Z Flip 8 potentially bringing “no visible fold line” this year.

Key segments such as battery capacity, charging, and camera could be unchanged. Galaxy Z Flip 7 debuted with a 4300mAh battery, 300mAh larger than its predecessor, and the latest capacity could be retained this year.

Samsung may increase foldable prices

Samsung won’t bring a major price hike to the Galaxy Z Flip 8. Price freeze isn’t expected due to pressure from DRAM and NAND components.

Galaxy S26 series comes with increased prices over its predecessor. Samsung was forced to revise its pricing strategy as memory prices skyrocketed.

Galaxy Z Flip lineup introduces foldable phones with a compact form factor. However, the interest is spiking in book-style foldable devices. The launch of the Wide Fold model would widen the gap further due to its practical design.

Samsung is rumored to hold Unpacked on July 22 in London.

The post Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 may be crease-free, lighter and pricier appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung’s Visual Display gets new chief, former head takes DX advisory role

On May 4, Samsung confirmed a reshuffle in its Visual Display leadership, replacing the division’s chief and transferring the former head to DX as advisor.

Samsung Electronics has named Won-Jin Lee as the new Head of its Visual Display (VD) Business, marking a leadership change at the top of its TV division.

Outgoing VD chief Seok Woo Yong will transition to an advisory role under the Device eXperience (DX) Division, where he will focus on future technologies, including AI and robotics.

Lee is not a traditional hardware or R&D-led executive. His background sits squarely in marketing, content, and services. The VD Business is being handed to someone whose strength lies in building a content ecosystem and shaping user engagement.

Expect tighter integration between Galaxy devices and Samsung’s TV lineup. Expect more emphasis on services that sit on top of the hardware rather than the panel itself.

Seok Woo Yong’s move to the DX Division reflects a parallel focus on long-term platform capabilities. His expertise in R&D and product development aligns more naturally with Samsung’s broader push into AI-led experiences and robotics.

The post Samsung’s Visual Display gets new chief, former head takes DX advisory role appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Galaxy S24 series not first in line for One UI 8.5 rollout

One UI 8.5 update is on the verge of rollout, and there’s some important news for the Galaxy S24 series users. Samsung hasn’t shared the rollout roadmap, but the update is expected to be available starting tomorrow.

A Samsung moderator of Canada community has just revealed that the One UI 8.5 rollout will begin with the Galaxy S25 series and the Galaxy S24 series may follow later. That said, 2024’s flagships won’t upgrade alongside the S25 series.

The moderator clearly said that the update will first arrive for the Galaxy S25 series and the Galaxy S24 Ultra is included in the following phase. It’s a little blow to the users of the flagship phones, but it isn’t shocking either.

One UI 8.5 Beta first arrived on the Galaxy S25 series. Samsung expanded it to more models in 2026, with April marked a massive expansion. As for the S24 phones, the distribution may begin in the second phase, not first.

We were expecting a simultaneous rollout for a wide range of Galaxy devices, but Samsung still refrains from opening a broad deployment. Well, the update may go live for plenty of devices in the present month and the next.

Staged release aims to ensure stability and performance. If Samsung detects any problem, the expansion will be paused. In case the stability is verified, devices from the previous generations will quickly join the party.

Users can check for latest updates through Settings > Software update. Make sure to create a backup of your personal data before install. You can also check our dedicated article to ensure a seamless upgrade experience.

The post Galaxy S24 series not first in line for One UI 8.5 rollout appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Will Galaxy S25 Ultra get the S26 Ultra’s Horizontal Lock camera feature?

Samsung will significantly elevate the Galaxy S25 Ultra experience, but the arrival of the Horizontal Lock camera feature is uncertain.

Galaxy S26 Ultra comes with enhanced camera sensors, including the new ALoP technology. The main camera features a wider aperture, which offers a new Super Steady video recording mode called Horizontal Lock.

Horizontal Lock camera feature relies on hardware, and its expansion to the Galaxy S25 Ultra looks less likely. A moderator claimed way back in March that the optimization is underway, but no follow-up surfaced since then.

Samsung’s Horizontal Lock feature works on the synchronized utilization of gyro and acceleration sensors. The camera sensor does nothing alone, but an entire system works in parallel to keep the scene steady across angles.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Horizontal Lock Camera

Galaxy S26 Ultra went viral due to this impressive camera technology. It ends the need to carry a gimbal to record steady videos. Even if you rotate your phone 360 degrees, the recording remains the same as shown in the preview.

Giving it on the Galaxy S25 Ultra isn’t impossible, but it can’t happen if there’s a need for specific hardware. Samsung didn’t provide the tool in the Beta Program, and Stable update is very likely to skip it when it starts rolling out.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Horizontal Lock Camera

Galaxy S26’s features are coming to older Samsung phones, but the most impressive ones are still exclusive to the latest flagships, including the Now Nudge, 24-megapixel camera mode and AI-powered Notification handlers.

One UI 8.5 update may start rolling out on May 4. It would initially arrive in South Korea and then expand to the Global markets. Samsung is actively preparing for the expansion to a wide range of its Galaxy devices this month.

The post Will Galaxy S25 Ultra get the S26 Ultra’s Horizontal Lock camera feature? appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Galaxy S26 Ultra, A37 and A57 getting up to $95 limited price cut in India

Yes, you read it right: Samsung Galaxy A37, A57 and Galaxy S26 series are getting a decent price cut in India. After a continuous streak of price hikes, Samsung India has incredible news for its fans in the country.

Tipster Abhishek Yadav posted an official memo on X, shedding light on price cut on Galaxy A37, A57, and Galaxy S26 series phones in India.

Galaxy S26 Ultra is the biggest beneficiary of this price cut, getting cheaper by up to INR 9000 (about $95). The standard Galaxy S26 is also having an incredible price reduction of INR 8000 for a limited period this May.

If you are looking at a mid-range device, the Galaxy A37 is going down by INR 5000, while the Galaxy A57 price is slashed by INR 7000. It’s an impressive relief for those considering buying a new Galaxy smartphone.

Price cut information:

Galaxy S26 (base)

  • 12/256GB → INR 8,000 off
  • 12/512GB → INR 8,000 off

Galaxy S26 Ultra

  • 12/256GB → INR 9,000 off
  • 12/512GB → INR 9,000 off
  • 16/1TB → INR 9,000 off

Galaxy A37

  • 8/128GB → INR 5,000 off
  • 8/256GB → INR 5,000 off
  • 12/256GB → INR 5,000 off

Galaxy A57

  • 8/256GB → INR 7,000 off
  • 12/256GB → INR 7,000 off

The revised prices with discounts come into effect on May 3 through May 27. You get these benefits regardless of the purchase channel. It means, you can purchase online or offline, the prices will include the said discounts.

The price cuts make the four Samsung phones even more appealing in the market. Buyers who have recently owned one of the devices may feel bad, but such a sudden discount wasn’t anticipated from Samsung India.

The post Galaxy S26 Ultra, A37 and A57 getting up to $95 limited price cut in India appeared first on Sammy Fans.

One UI 8.5 upgrades Studio with HDR and SDR previews

Samsung may have brought a significant upgrade to the Studio app in One UI 8.5. Galaxy users will have an even better editing experience while creating movies using the built-in Studio app.

Galaxy S25 series may begin receiving One UI 8.5 update on Monday. Samsung plans to open the rollout on May 9 in North America. After missing the April 30 target, the company is probably considering May 4 for rollout.

In the latest build of Galaxy S25 Ultra, tipster Alfaturk spotted a new “Preview color” option inside the “Project settings” screen. The addition hints that the company has upgraded the Studio experience on its Galaxy devices.

The new “Preview color” option features three options for color range, including Auto, SDR and HDR. Selecting the preferred option will display content in preview in the selected color range, making editing more precise.

  • If you pick the Auto option, the preview will match the color range to the content of your projects.
  • Selecting SDR will force the preview function to use the standard color range for images and videos.
  • Lastly, the HDR option triggers the preview to show a wider range of color and contrast for brighter, more vibrant images and videos.

Samsung’s Studio app isn’t a widely used app for editing. It has a limited set of features that just deliver nominal tweaks. Users rely on third-party apps like VN and CapCut for video editing.

Still, Samsung’s upgrading Studio app with new capabilities is a welcome move. The addition seems silent, which might also have appeared on the previous versions of One UI software.

One UI 8.5 Studio Project HDR

The post One UI 8.5 upgrades Studio with HDR and SDR previews appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Seven Samsung Galaxy phones face price hike in India

Rising memory prices continue to hurt purchase power of smartphone buyers. The beginning of May 2026 marks another wave of price hike across mid-range and budget Samsung phones in India.

According to AbhishekYadav, at least seven Samsung phones have faced a price hike in India. The revised prices are also in effect, raising the costs by Rs 1,000.

The affected models include the Galaxy M36, Galaxy F36, Galaxy M17, Galaxy M17e, Galaxy F70e, Galaxy M06 and Galaxy F06. The company has already hiked prices of premium A series phones over the past few months.

Unlike previous waves, the May wave of price hikes is static. All models, including their storage variants, are seeing an equal jump of INR 1,000. Here is the information about previous and revised prices in India:

Samsung M36 5G:

→ 6/128GB: Rs 20,999 → Rs 21,999
→ 8/128GB: Rs 22,999 → Rs 23,999
→ 8/256GB: Rs 26,999 → Rs 27,999

Samsung F36 5G:

→ 6/128GB: Rs 20,999 → Rs 21,999
→ 8/128GB: Rs 22,999 → Rs 23,999
→ 8/256GB: Rs 26,999 → Rs 27,999

Samsung M17 5G:

→ 4/128GB: Rs 15,999 → Rs 16,999
→ 6/128GB: Rs 17,999 → Rs 18,999
→ 8/128GB: Rs 19,999 → Rs 20,999

Samsung M17E:

→ 4/128GB: Rs 14,499 → Rs 15,499
→ 6/128GB: Rs 16,499 → Rs 17,499

Samsung F70E 5G:

→ 4/128GB: Rs 14,499 → Rs 15,499
→ 6/128GB: Rs 16,499 → Rs 17,499

Samsung M06 5G:

→ 4/64GB: Rs 11,499 → Rs 12,499
→ 4/128GB: Rs 12,999 → Rs 13,999
→ 6/128GB: Rs 14,999 → Rs 15,999

Samsung F06 5G:

→ 4/64GB: Rs 11,499 → Rs 12,499
→ 4/128GB: Rs 12,999 → Rs 13,999
→ 6/128GB: Rs 14,999 → Rs 15,999

The post Seven Samsung Galaxy phones face price hike in India appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Galaxy S25 Ultra 1TB undercuts the S26 Ultra by $240 in the US

While the smartphone industry is worried about rising memory prices, Samsung is silently running a deal on the Galaxy S25 Ultra 1TB variant in the US.

If you want incredibly larger storage on your smartphone, you can pick up the Galaxy S25 Ultra with 1TB storage in the US. The smartphone is currently $300 down from its launch price and undercuts the S26 Ultra by $240.

Samsung launched the Galaxy S25 Ultra with 12GB RAM and 1TB storage in the US, and the list price was huge, $1,660. Galaxy S26 Ultra costs more than its predecessor, $1,800, but it comes with 16GB RAM integration.

Galaxy S25 Ultra is an epic smartphone that ships with Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. Its 12GB RAM handles seamless execution of AI tasks. It also impresses with its gaming performance, thanks to the software optimization.

Samsung’s S26 Ultra is indeed better than the S25 Ultra, but the latter doesn’t disappoint too. Getting an S25 Ultra still makes sense in 2026, as its highest memory variant is available for $240 less than the latest model.

The Korean tech giant has all four standard and three online-exclusive colors in stock. Benefits jump up to $580 if you trade in your existing device. Bundling ecosystem products avails you up to 40 percent additional discount.

The only string is that you need to purchase a carrier-unlocked device. Carrier-branded models are no longer eligible on Samsung’s website. With the unlocked version, you get peace of mind as it allows easier network switching.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra 1TB Sale US

The post Galaxy S25 Ultra 1TB undercuts the S26 Ultra by $240 in the US appeared first on Sammy Fans.

Samsung patches broken app update system

Samsung has just patched the broken update system of an app. Galaxy users reported that the Bixby Vision requires an update while using, but the Galaxy Store had nothing to install. Well, a new update has arrived, and the problem is solved.

Bixby Vision is getting updated to version 5.0.00.14. It’s available for installation, unlike the previous broken alerts. Now, the Galaxy users are getting the update key working, which was not accessible before.

Earlier, using Bixby Vision had become a complete frustration. Galaxy users run the app, and it alerts them to install the new version, but Galaxy Store has nothing. Several users reported having the same problem in various markets.

It often happens with Galaxy Store and Play Store apps. This is because of the sequential rollout of app updates, which spread slowly. The installed app pushes an update alert, but limited coverage renders a failed update.

This update hides two possibilities:

  1. Bixby Vision update has become available widely.
  2. Samsung is rolling out a patched version of Bixby Vision.

If you use the Bixby Vision app, check for its latest update in the Galaxy Store. You may also get an update notice right after opening the app. Tapping the update button takes you to the app’s landing page in the Galaxy Store.

Even if you don’t see a new version available for download, waiting a bit is the only option. The expansion might still be rolling out slowly. The expansion usually takes a couple of days to reach a broad range of users across countries.

Samsung Bixby Vision App Broken Update

The post Samsung patches broken app update system appeared first on Sammy Fans.

❌