Samsung launched the One UI 9 beta program in May 2026 for Galaxy S26 users. After several beta builds, the company released the stable version of One UI 9 on July 22, 2026. It came pre-installed on the new Galaxy Z Fold 8, Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Z Flip 8.

One UI 9 Beta Program

The One UI 9 beta program launched quickly after internal testing. It is currently available via the Samsung Members app for eligible S26 users in supported regions.

Multiple beta builds have been released so far: Beta 1 (May 13), Beta 2 (May 26), and Beta 3 (June 16). The public beta remains focused on the S26 series in the same supported countries. However, internal testing has expanded significantly to many more devices (S25 series, S24 series, S23 series, various A-series like A56/A57/A35/A25, and tablets).

According to early feedback, there’s a nicer Quick Panel design, improved Notes and DeX, accessibility tweaks, and stronger security features. You can expect more beta builds over the next few months as Samsung refines Android 17 features before the stable release.

For comparison, the One UI 8 beta program had 7 builds for the Galaxy S25 series, while One UI 8.5 went through a longer testing phase with around 9 to 10 beta builds.

Samsung One UI 9 Release Date

The One UI 9 beta started on May 13, 2026 for the Galaxy S26 series. Samsung released the stable version on July 22, 2026, with the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8. The global expansion for flagship devices is likely to take place in August 2026. Older flagships and mid-range devices should get the update from August to December 2026.

• Beta started: May 13, 2026 (Galaxy S26 series).
• Stable rollout expected: August 2026 (starting with the S26 series).
• Global expansion for flagships: Likely August-September 2026.
• Older flagships and mid-range devices: August-December 2026.

Note: Samsung usually speeds up the schedule once testing goes well, so some dates could move forward.

Expected Stable One UI 9 Rollout Timeline

July 2026:

• Galaxy Z Fold8/Fold8 Ultra, Z Flip8 (launch devices).

August–September 2026:

• Galaxy S26 series (stable).
• Galaxy S25 series.
• Galaxy S24 series.
• Galaxy Z Fold7/Flip7.

October–December 2026:

• Galaxy S23 series and older flagships.
• Mid-range A-series (A56, A36, etc.).
• Galaxy Tab models.

Note: Regional availability will vary, with Korea and Europe often getting updates first.

Samsung One UI 9 Eligible Devices (Expected List)

Samsung hasn’t published the full official list yet, but based on past patterns and current testing, here’s who is expected to get One UI 9:

Galaxy S Series:

• S26 Edge / S26 / S26+ / S26 Ultra (beta now)
• S25 series
• S24 series
• S23 series (likely final major OS update)

Galaxy Z Series:

• Z Fold8 / Z Flip8 (launch with One UI 9)
• Z Fold7 / Z Flip7
• Z Fold6 / Z Flip6 (expected)

Galaxy Tab Series:

• Tab S11 series and newer
• Tab S10 series
• Tab S9 series

Galaxy A Series:

• A56, A36, A55, A35 and select newer mid-range models
• Some budget models may get it later or as a lighter version.

Older devices like the S22 series and Z Fold4 are now on security-only updates and are not expected to receive One UI 9.

What to Expect from One UI 9

The One UI 9 focuses on:

• Enhanced Galaxy AI tools
• Better personalization and customization
• Improved multitasking and DeX
• Stronger privacy and security features from Android 17
• Smoother animations and performance

These are still early days for One UI 9. Things can change as the beta progresses and Samsung shares more details. I will keep an eye on the latest developments and update this article as new information comes in.

Tip: If you own a Galaxy S26 and are in a supported country, check the Samsung Members app now to sign up for the beta. Just remember, betas can have issues, so back up your data first.

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Samsung Care+ is a widely adopted smartphone coverage subscription in the US. Well, Samsung now has a new competitor in the US, this time from Google, which just introduced the Pixel Care+ with promising perks.

Here’s a comparison based on the data availed by Samsung and Google regarding their Care+ plans for US consumers.

Samsung Care+:

Samsung Care+: Covers unlimited drops, spills, and mechanical breakdowns.

Samsung Care+ with Theft and Loss: Adds theft and loss coverage (max 3 claims for lost, stolen, or unrecoverable devices in any consecutive 12-month period).

Eligible devices: Phones, Tablets, Watches, Buds, Rings, PCs (standard plan); Phones, Tablets, Watches only (Theft and Loss plan).

Google Pixel Care+:

Covers unlimited claims for accidental damage (drops, spills, cracks), extended warranty, and mechanical/electrical failures post-warranty.

Optional theft and loss coverage (max 2 claims per rolling 12-month period; includes failure-to-locate via Find My Device for Pixel 8+).

Eligible devices: Made by Google products (Pixel phones from 8 series, Pixel Watches 2+, Pixel Tablet, select Fitbits like Ace LTE, Sense 2).

Repairs and Replacements

Samsung Care+:

Unlimited Repairs: Includes batteries (at certain capacity); $29 cracked screen/back glass repairs (standard plan) or $0 (with Theft and Loss plan) at 700+ Samsung authorized locations.

Replacement: Same-day replacement for theft/loss (Theft and Loss plan); next business day for standard plan.

• Uses Samsung genuine parts and certified technicians.

Google Pixel Care+:

Unlimited Repairs: $0 deductibles for front/back glass screen repairs (excludes inner foldable screens like Pixel Fold), battery replacements (if <80% capacity), and post-warranty malfunction claims.

Replacement: Free upgraded shipping, including next-day shipping for replacements.

• Uses genuine Google parts and replacements.

Image – Google

Additional Features

Samsung Care+:

• Knox Guard Security: Remote lock and wipe for data privacy (Theft and Loss plan only).
• 24/7 Expert Support: For device setup, content transfers, and connectivity.

Google Pixel Care+:

• Priority Support: From Pixel Experts via Google Store or My Pixel App.
• Self-Service Claims: Via Google Store or My Pixel App for streamlined filing.
• Partnership with Asurion for claims processing.

Purchase and Claims

Samsung Care+:

Purchase within 60 days of device purchase via Samsung.com, Samsung Experience Stores, or samsungcareplus.com.

Claims process: File online, schedule same-day repairs at authorized Samsung service centers.

Google Pixel Care+:

Purchase within 60 days of device purchase via Google Store or My Pixel App (applies to devices bought from any retailer).

Claims process: Self-service via Google Store or My Pixel App; select repair location and time at 700+ locations.

Pricing

Samsung Care+:

Varies by device MSRP (Galaxy S24: ~$8–$13/mo or $129–$259/2 years; Theft and Loss adds ~$5/mo, $99–$199 deductibles).

Google Pixel Care+:

Varies by device ( Pixel 10: $9/mo or $179/2 years; Pixel 10 Pro Fold: $16/mo or $299/2 years; +$1–$2/mo for loss/theft).

Monthly subscribers of Google Preferred Care/Fi Device Protection in the US will transition to Pixel Care+ in coming months.

Key Differences

Theft and Loss:

Samsung Care+ includes it as an optional tier with a 3-claim limit per 12 months; Google Pixel Care+ offers it as an optional add-on with a 2-claim limit per rolling 12 months, plus failure-to-locate coverage for Pixel 8+.

Repair Costs:

Samsung Care+ charges $29 for screen/back glass repairs in the standard plan ($0 with Theft and Loss), while Pixel Care+ offers $0 deductibles for front/back glass, battery, and malfunction repairs (excludes foldable inner screens).

Support and Claims:

Both offer expert support, but Google emphasizes self-service claims via its app/store with priority Pixel Expert access, while Samsung focuses on authorized service centers with same-day repair options.

Samsung One UI and Google’s Pixel software both make Android better, but One UI really shines for millions of people. Here are 10 reasons why the beloved One UI stands out with its versatile, user-focused features.

Summary of key advantages of Samsung One UI over Pixel software

Below, we explore how One UI stands out in several key areas:

1. Extensive Customization

One UI lets you customize just about everything, like wallpapers, lock screen shortcuts, and even how your Wi-Fi networks are sorted. The Good Lock app takes it further with extras you may miss out on Pixel’s more basic setup.

2. Feature-packed Camera

Samsung’s camera app in One UI comes with all the bells and whistles, besides Expert RAW and Camera Assistant. It’s easy to use and often feels more polished than Pixel’s, perfect for anyone who loves snapping photos.

• Samsung One UI 7 Camera: Deep dive into redesigned UX

3. Creative Video Recording

With One UI’s Dual Recording, you can record using both front and back cameras at once, in cool split-screen or picture-in-picture styles. Pixel doesn’t have this, making One UI a go-to for seasoned video creators.

One UI 7 (left) vs One UI 6 (right)

4. Privacy and Secure Folder

Google introduced Private Space for Pixel phones in Android 16. It’s a separate section designed to offer enhanced privacy. Well, Samsung’s Secure Folder is a great tool that is easy to use and packed with rich design and features.

• One UI 7 introduces advanced security and privacy features

5. Samsung DeX

Samsung DeX is a killer feature that no Android OEM has managed to replicate so far. Google, meanwhile, brought it with Android 16, but it couldn’t stop itself from proudly accepting that Android’s Desktop Mode is built on the DeX foundation.

6. Notes and Reminders

One UI’s Notes and Reminders apps are packed with features like sketching, PDF support, and smart text recognition. They even pop up full-screen alerts to keep you on track. Pixel’s apps feel basic in comparison, so One UI wins for productivity.

• Samsung unveils One UI 8 Reminder app with bold new design

7. Modes and Routines

One UI Routines enables automation based on location or activity, like turning off mobile data at home. This level of smart customization isn’t matched by Pixel software, offering users more convenience and efficiency.

8. Advanced Hotspot Controls

One UI’s hotspot settings show who’s connected, track data usage, and even allow you to set limits or use one-time passwords. It’s way more detailed than Google Pixel’s basic hotspot options, great for staying in control.

9. Efficient Quick Panel

Pixel phones will receive a redesigned Quick Panel with Material 3 Expressive touch. Meanwhile, One UI 7 beats Pixel’s Quick Settings with 12 toggles in expanded view, while Pixel’s UI is limited to just 8 tiles.

10. Ecosystem Experience

One UI ensures a consistent experience across Samsung phones, wearables, and laptops. This seamless integration offers a smoother, more unified user experience than Pixel’s standalone and narrow software approach.

These 10 reasons highlight where Samsung’s One UI software excels, but it’s important to acknowledge that user preferences vary. Google Pixel software may appeal to those seeking a cleaner, stock Android experience.

One UI 7 introduces a stylish Quick Panel, Google tried to nail its version in Android 16 with Expressive design, while Apple’s iOS 26 Control Center has become a burning topic of debate online due to its unfinished liquid glass design.

Apple and Samsung dominate the smartphone market in the US, while Google’s also expanding its presence in key markets. All three smartphone makers brought a major design overhaul to their software systems this year.

Here’s a side-by-side Quick Panel comparison – One UI 7 vs iOS 26 vs Android 16:

One UI 7 vs iOS 26

The One UI 7 Quick Panel features a clean, split design with notifications and quick settings separated. It has a modern look with rounded icons like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and flashlight, set against a semi-transparent background.

Apple’s iOS 26 Control Center shows a more crowded design with a grid of circular icons for controls. It uses a highly transparent background, which lets the wallpaper show through, giving it a glossy, liquid-glass effect.

Winner – One UI 7

One UI 7 feels more organized with its split approach, while iOS 26 offers more icons but sacrifices readability due to transparency. One UI design is easier to navigate, whereas iOS 26’s style might appeal to those who like a dynamic look.

One UI 7 vs Android 16 (Expressive)

Android 16’s Material 3 Expressive Quick Panel features a semi-transparent background but with a softer, blurred effect. It includes larger, pill-shaped toggles for Internet, Flashlight, and Airplane Mode, with a greener color scheme and a cleaner layout.

Winner – One UI 7

One UI 7’s split design offers better separation of notifications and settings, while Android 16 focuses on a unified, expressive look. Android 16’s blur improves readability over One UI 7’s transparency, but One UI 7 feels more practical for quick access.

Android 16 (Expressive) vs iOS 26

Blurred background in Android 16 offers better clarity and a polished look compared to iOS 26’s excessive transparency. iOS 26 has plenty of icon options, but Android 16’s layout is more user-friendly due to its focus on simplicity.

Winner – Android 16 (Expressive)

Verdict

One UI 7 beats both Android 16 and iOS 26 with its easier navigation and optimized design. iOS 26 is an entirely new approach in Apple’s iPhone software design strategy that relies heavily on liquid glass appearance.

As iOS 26 is unfinished, Apple will work on readability improvements. Alone, fixing the transparency level would make things a lot better. In this comparison, One UI 7 stands out to be the most practical and vibrant skin for Quick Panel.

iOS 26, Android 16 screenshot credits – Mishaal Rahman.

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iOS 26 vs One UI 7: Who nailed the Camera app redesign?