Samsung has now started One UI 9 Beta for Galaxy S26 series that showcases an early preview of the next-gen software experience founded on Android 17. Currently released only in a couple of selected regions such as the US and South Korea, it is brimful with new features including Customization, Accessibility (in also regards to privacy and security), Productivity & performance improvements for every type of use case – home or office along featuring AI- assistive enabled experience. The update also brings increased integration with Gemini Intelligence and enhanced Galaxy AI features.
One UI 9 preview: Built on top of Android 17 and Google’s freshest Material-3 Expressive design language, powered by a smarter Galaxy experience| Galaxys21 Murillo The update also brings increased integration with Gemini Intelligence, new Samsung Notes tools, accessibility improvements and stronger security safeguards.
One UI 9 Beta: What’s New?
Samsung Notes Becomes More Creative
With the October 2023 edition, Samsung has expanded its existing tools in Notes to support brighter applications focused on students, professionals and digital artists.
New additions include:
- Tape stickers for artsy note decorations
- More pen styles & brush options
- Improved writing and sketching experience
- Better, more flexible customisation options for creative note-taking
These updates and upgrades make Samsung Notes the most flexible it has ever been, thanks to its transformatively complete productivity & creativity platform.
New Quick Panel: Super Customizability
Multiple Unique Data from One UI 9 with the adjustable Quick Panel experience Users are now in full control of the appearance and layout of quick settings on their devices.
Key improvements include:
- Adjustable brightness slider size
- Customizable volume controls
- Independent media player placement
- Separate sound mode controls
- Enhanced layout customization options
Which enables users to build a Quick Panel layout that best reflects their day-to-day work.
Accessibility Features Receive Major Upgrades
As part of its efforts to be more accessible, Samsung rolls out a number of new features and functionalities aimed at make using Galaxy devices easier for every body.
Text Spotlight
New Text Spotlight A new feature called Text Spotlight shows selected text in a floating window that is larger and can be easier to read for users with low vision or reading challenges.
Improved Mouse Keys
Improvements have been made for the users that navigate using only keyboard. Users can now customise:
- Cursor speed
- Pointer acceleration
- Keyboard-based click controls
- Numeric keypad navigation
Unified TalkBack Experience
Samsung has worked together with Google to combine all of their accessibility solutions under one roof called TalkBack. It makes its configuration easier, increases uniformity and let them update through the Google Play Store.
Select to Speak
Stand-alone text or content screen reader: Users can now hear selected text and/or information from the screen read aloud without having to turn on complete TalkBack functionality.
Samsung DeX Improvements
Samsung has made the desktop-like DeX experience better with a few improvements for usability.
New enhancements include:
- Easier window movement between desktops
- Clicking into the Recents menu for desktop previews
- Faster desktop switching
- Improved multitasking workflow
With these updates, Samsung DeX is proving to be more powerful for the productivity-minded use cases.
Enhanced Privacy and Security
As always, One UI 9 places a focus on security.
App Threat Detection
When One UI 9 finds an app that could be malicious, it can:
- Display security warnings
- Block app execution
- Prevent additional installations
- Recommend app removal
It protects users in advance and thereby helps protect against malicious applications and security threats. One UI 9 introduces stronger security protections through App Threat Detection.
Location Access Transparency
Each time an app accesses your location, a new blue dot appears on the indicator.
Users can quickly identify:
- Which app uses location
- When location access occurs
- Real-time privacy status
It allows for more transparency and control of personal data.
Game Booster Gets New Controls
More Game Booster Settings Available During Gameplay (Mobile gamers are sure to Love)
Users can now adjust:
- Screen resolution
- Screenshot formats
- Performance settings
- Gaming preferences
without leaving their game.
One UI 9 Beta Update Details
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| One UI Version | 9.0 |
| Android Version | 17 |
| Firmware / Build | S948U1UEU2ZZEF / S948U10YM3G PCTB V 0.4 +;S9r48UYIg42930cdy W+H01uRQID. |
| Update Size | 3.65 GB |
| Security Patch Level | 05 May 2026 |
How to Register for One UI 9 Beta Program
Samsung Members app allows eligible Galaxy S26 users to join the beta program.
Steps to Enroll:
- Open Samsung Members.
- Log in with your Samsung Account.
- Find the banner for the One UI 9 Beta Program.
- Tap Enroll.
- Accept the terms and conditions.
Download the Update
After enrollment:
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Software Update.
- Tap Download and Install.
How to Install One UI 9 Beta Update
Before installing the beta update, ensure that:
- Your device battery is above 50%.
- Important data is backed up.
- You have a stable Wi-Fi connection.
- Sufficient storage space is available on your device.
Once downloaded, follow the on-screen instructions to complete installation.
Final Thoughts
One UI 9 Beta is easily one of Samsung’s most substantial software updates in years. The update also shows Samsung is still committed to user experience, from better customization and productivity tools through a deeper integration of accessibility features and further security protections.
Samsung will gradually make its beta program available to users on more backed Galaxy S26 devices and in more regions, ahead of a stable rollout later this year.
If you’re a Galaxy user looking for an even smarter, more tailored Android experience in One UI 9 Beta.