Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4 Begin One UI 8.5 Testing
Samsung's latest major software iteration, One UI 8.5, is progressing toward a wider release, with recent developments indicating testing has expanded to include the company's 2022 flagship foldables. Firmware for the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Flip 4 has been spotted on Samsung's servers, marking a significant step in the update's deployment timeline for these devices.
Expanding the Beta Testing Pool
One UI 8.5 is currently in beta testing, primarily focused on the upcoming Galaxy S25 series. The stable version of the software is expected to debut with the Galaxy S26 series later this year. Following that launch, Samsung plans to roll out the update to a broad range of eligible devices. The testing phase is a critical step in this process, ensuring stability and performance before a public release.
The inclusion of the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Flip 4 in this testing phase is a clear signal that these models, now two generations old, remain a priority for software support. Firmware versions identified as F936BXXUAJZAH for the Fold 4 and F721BXXUAJZAH for the Flip 4 confirm that internal testing is underway. This development follows the software already being tested on newer models like the Galaxy S24, S23, Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7, Z Fold 6, and Z Flip 6 lineups.
What One UI 8.5 Brings to Eligible Devices
One UI 8.5 represents a substantial visual and functional overhaul for Samsung's smartphone interface. Early impressions describe a user interface that is less cluttered, more organized, and modernized compared to previous versions. The update emphasizes enhanced user-friendliness and offers greater customization options, allowing users to tailor their experience more precisely.
Beyond aesthetics, the update is packed with new features designed to inject fresh functionality into supported devices. These improvements aim to extend the usable life and relevance of smartphones by adding capabilities typically reserved for newer hardware. For foldable device owners, software optimizations that leverage the unique form factors of the Z Fold and Z Flip series are particularly anticipated.
Looking Ahead to the Stable Release
The sighting of test firmware for the 2022 foldables suggests Samsung's development schedule for One UI 8.5 is on track. While a public release date for these specific models has not been announced, the commencement of testing is a strong indicator that the update is in its final stages of preparation for a broader device roster.
This move reinforces Samsung's commitment to providing extended software support for its flagship devices, including its pioneering foldable lineup. Owners of the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4 can now look forward to a significant software refresh that will modernize the interface and introduce a suite of new features, effectively granting these devices a second wind in their product lifecycle.
Conclusion
The detection of One UI 8.5 test builds for the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Flip 4 is a promising development for users of these devices. It confirms that Samsung is actively working to bring its latest software experience to older, yet still capable, foldable smartphones. As testing progresses, a stable rollout is expected to follow the official launch of the software on newer models, ensuring a cohesive and updated ecosystem across Samsung's recent device portfolio.