Samsung has started the One UI 9 beta program for the Galaxy S26 series. Built on the new Android 17, One UI 9 beta delivers expanded creative tools, customization options, a more accessible mobile experience and stronger protection against potential security threats.
Key Features of the One UI 9 Beta
The beta introduces several notable updates across the core mobile experience:
- Creative Tools and Customization: Samsung Notes receives new decorative tapes and additional pen line styles. Additionally, the Contacts app now integrates directly with Creative Studio, allowing users to create personalized profile cards without switching between applications.
- Interface Updates: The Quick Panel has been updated to offer users greater control over the layout. Controls for brightness, sound, and the media player are now independently adjustable and feature multiple size options to accommodate individual user preferences.
- Enhanced Accessibility: Accessibility updates include an adjustable Mouse Key speed for smoother cursor control and a unified TalkBack package that consolidates features previously separated by Google and Samsung. A new “Text Spotlight” feature has also been introduced, which displays selected text in a larger, clearer floating window to aid reading.
- Upgraded Security: One UI 9 implements stronger protections against suspicious applications and potential threats. When the system detects new, high-risk apps, it issues a user warning, blocks the app’s execution and installation, and recommends deletion in accordance with updated security policies.
The full experience of One UI 9 will be introduced with the upcoming Galaxy flagship devices later this year, which will include advanced AI features that will make mobile interaction easy and effortless.
The One UI 9 beta program will be available to Galaxy S26 series users in select markets, including Germany, India, Korea, Poland, the U.K. and the U.S starting this week. Galaxy S26 series users can apply to join the beta program via the Samsung Members app.