Samsung has officially pulled the wraps off One UI 9.0, its next major software update for Galaxy smartphones and tablets. Built on the newly minted Android 17, the revamped interface promises a sleek, modern aesthetic alongside a suite of smart features and significant under-the-hood performance boosts. Coinciding with the announcement, the tech giant has also opened its beta program, giving eager users a sneak peek before the stable release hits the masses.

Currently, the exclusive club of devices eligible for this initial beta phase is limited to the flagship trio: the Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra. While the launch roster might seem slim, Samsung's track record suggests a much wider net will be cast once the early testing phase concludes.

Over the coming weeks and months, the beta program is widely expected to roll out to other premium models across the Galaxy Z and S lines, and potentially even the mid-range A series. This staggered rollout strategy is a tried-and-true playbook for Samsung—one successfully deployed with One UI 8.0 and 8.5—designed to gather crucial user feedback across a diverse range of hardware.

Launching an early beta is a critical stepping stone for Samsung to iron out software wrinkles and ensure seamless compatibility with Android 17. For current flagship owners, it’s a prime opportunity to test-drive deep system changes and fresh AI tools. Support for additional devices will be announced as the rollout progresses. Users looking to get in on the action early can keep an eye out for updates and register for the program via the Samsung Members app in supported regions.