Samsung launches One UI 9 beta for Galaxy S26 series with Android 17 and enhanced AI features

Samsung One UI 9 Beta Program Begins Rollout for Galaxy S26 Series

Samsung Electronics has officially launched the One UI 9 beta program, starting this week with Galaxy S26 series users in select markets including Germany, India, Korea, Poland, the U.K., and the U.S. 1

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Built on the newly released Android 17, Samsung One UI 9 introduces a refined mobile experience centered on creativity, personalization, accessibility, and security. Eligible users can apply to join the One UI 9 beta program directly through the Samsung Members app to test the new operating system before its wider release. 3

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Enhanced Creative Tools and Customization Options

The update brings several creative tools to Samsung's native applications. Samsung Notes now features decorative tapes and a wider variety of pen line styles, expanding options for digital note-taking and sketching. The Contacts app gains direct access to Creative Studio, allowing users to create personalized profile cards without switching between apps. The updated Quick Panel delivers greater control over layout configuration, with brightness, sound, and media player controls now independently adjustable with more size options to suit individual preferences. These customization options give users more flexibility in tailoring their device interface to match their workflow and aesthetic preferences.

Accessibility Features Receive Major Improvements

Accessibility features have been significantly enhanced in this release. The adjustable Mouse Key speed enables smoother cursor control for users who rely on alternative input methods. A combined TalkBack package now brings together features previously offered separately by Google and Samsung, streamlining the screen reader experience. The new Text Spotlight feature displays selected text larger or more clearly in a floating window, making reading easier for users with vision issues. 2

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These accessibility features demonstrate Samsung's commitment to making mobile devices more usable for diverse user needs.

Enhanced Security Measures Against Suspicious Apps

One UI 9 introduces enhanced security measures designed to protect users from potential threats. When new high-risk apps are detected, the system now warns users, blocks execution and installation, and recommends deletion through security policy updates. This proactive approach to security means users receive real-time protection against malicious or insecure apps before they can compromise device integrity. 2

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Advanced AI Features Coming to Galaxy Flagship Devices

While the current beta release focuses on foundational improvements, the full One UI 9 experience will be introduced with upcoming Galaxy flagship devices later this year, featuring advanced AI features that will make mobile interaction easy and effortless. Samsung is expected to add updates as the beta progresses, likely including new Gemini Intelligence features that Google announced earlier this week as part of Android Show announcements. These include agentic features like automatically filling out forms, with Google and Samsung phones getting first access. 2

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The integration of these AI capabilities signals Samsung's strategy to position its devices at the forefront of intelligent mobile computing, though users will need to wait for the final release to experience the complete feature set.