One UI 8.5 beta program opens for the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7

Samsung has expanded its One UI 8.5 beta program to include the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7, marking the first time the company's foldable flagship devices have been included in the beta testing program. The update, which is now available to users in India and South Korea, brings the devices up to Android 16 with a host of new features and improvements.

The One UI 8.5 beta update for the Galaxy Z Fold7 comes in at approximately 4.2GB and carries firmware versions F966NKSU8ZZC5 for South Korean users and F966BXXU8ZZC5 for those in India. Both variants include the February 2026 Android security patch, ensuring users have the latest security protections while testing the beta software. Similarly, the Galaxy Z Flip7 is receiving the update with firmware version F766NKSU8ZZC5, also weighing around 4.2GB and including the same February security patch.

Based on Android 16, One UI 8.5 introduces an updated user interface along with new features and improved Galaxy AI capabilities. The beta program allows Samsung to gather feedback from early adopters before rolling out the stable version to all users. This approach helps identify bugs and refine the user experience based on real-world usage patterns.

To enroll in the One UI 8.5 beta program on the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, users need to install the Samsung Members app, sign in with their Samsung account, and register through the Beta Program banner within the app. Once enrolled, the update will appear in the Software update section of the Settings app, allowing users to download and install the beta version.

The inclusion of foldable devices in the beta program represents a strategic shift for Samsung, as the company typically limits beta testing to its S series flagship lineup. By including the Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, Samsung can ensure that the unique features and form factors of these devices are properly optimized for the new software version.

For those interested in the pricing of these devices, the Galaxy Z Fold7 is available in 256GB and 512GB variants, priced at €1,539.00/£950.00 and €1,638.50/£1,519.00 respectively. The Galaxy Z Flip7 offers more affordable options, with the 256GB model priced at €899.00/£675.00 and the 512GB variant at €1,049.00/£849.45.

The beta program expansion comes as Samsung continues to refine its software ecosystem across its device lineup. The company has been investing heavily in AI capabilities through its Galaxy AI initiative, and One UI 8.5 represents the next step in bringing these features to more devices. Users participating in the beta program will be among the first to experience these enhancements, though they should be prepared for potential bugs and instability that often accompany beta software.

This move also aligns with Samsung's broader strategy of maintaining software parity across its flagship lineup, ensuring that both traditional and foldable flagship devices receive feature updates simultaneously. As the beta program progresses, users can expect Samsung to gather valuable feedback that will shape the final release of One UI 8.5 for all compatible devices.