While most markets are waiting for One UI 8.5 to arrive on existing Galaxy devices, new clues from Samsung’s servers show that development of One UI 9 is already underway. The first test versions of the software have been spotted for the Galaxy Z Flip 8 and Galaxy Z Fold 8, indicating that Samsung is seriously accelerating the pace of preparing the next major version of its interface.
According to the first information, the firmware labeled F776USQU0AZB1 is directly linked to the Galaxy Z Flip 8. In accordance with Samsung’s past practice, such early builds usually mean that the company aims for a high degree of stability until the moment of official presentation, which traditionally coincides with the summer launch of new flip phones.
One UI 9 and Android 17 arrive first on the flexible Galaxy models
One UI 9 will be based on the Android 17 build, which is internally codenamed “Cinnamon Bun”. Although the details are still very sketchy, a focus on better interconnection of devices, improved content synchronization and additional performance optimization is expected. Visual changes should be moderate, with an emphasis on a more modern and transparent appearance of individual system elements.
Particularly interesting is the appearance of the device’s third label, SM-F971U, which does not correspond to either the Flip or Fold series. There is more and more talk about the so-called “Wide Fold” model, a bendable phone with a wider external screen and a more practical aspect ratio when folded. With this, Samsung would respond to criticism that the existing Fold models are too narrow for everyday use, but also prepare the ground for stronger competition in the segment of flexible devices during 2026.
Although software is at the fore, early reports mention that the Galaxy Z Flip 8 could use an Exynos 2600 chip made in a 2nm process, which would bring better energy efficiency and less heating.
For now, One UI 9 is still in the phase of internal testing, but its early appearance clearly shows that Samsung is already preparing the ground for the next generation of Galaxy devices, reports Android Headline.