SamFw
Samsung is expected to roll out the next One UI 8.5 Beta for the Galaxy S25 series as early as next week. Moving beyond the standard bug fixes and stability tweaks seen in previous updates, this latest build promises significant performance gains driven by a crucial under-the-hood change.
According to reliable tipster Ice Universe, Samsung is currently testing One UI 8.5 with firmware version ZZAA. The headline feature here is a substantial upgrade to the Linux kernel, jumping from version 6.6.77 directly to 6.6.98—skipping over 21 revisions in a single update. Notably, this is believed to be the first kernel overhaul since the development of One UI 8.5 began, as earlier betas relied on older foundations.
In the Android ecosystem, the kernel acts as the vital bridge between software and hardware, orchestrating everything from CPU and GPU output to memory management and touch response. Consequently, upgrading the kernel often translates to systemic improvements in fluidity, responsiveness, and resource management, offering benefits that go far deeper than cosmetic interface changes.
Ice Universe notes that the Galaxy S25 Ultra running this new kernel feels visibly smoother compared to previous One UI 8.5 Beta builds. Users can expect more fluid transition animations, snappier touch response, and a general sense of heightened stability during day-to-day use.
Barring any last-minute delays, One UI 8.5 Beta 4 is likely to reach participants in the beta program soon. We will continue to provide detailed updates once the official version goes live.
