Samsung Galaxy users may soon get their first taste of the company’s next major software update, One UI 8.5, with a leaked beta schedule suggesting a launch in early December.

According to reports from multiple tipsters on X, including well-known tech insider Tarun Vats, the One UI 8.5 beta program is set to roll out in phases.

The first phase, expected on December 8, will cover users in the US, UK, Korea and Germany.

A second phase, tentatively scheduled for December 22, will expand access to India and Poland, while also delivering the second beta build to initial markets. A third beta may arrive around January 5, though Samsung has not confirmed any dates.

The update is expected to bring a combination of visual and functional improvements. Early leaks from Galaxy S25 Ultra and Galaxy Z Fold 7 firmware hint at AI-powered notifications, new Quick Settings, lock screen customisation and subtle design tweaks across the interface.

While the exact list of eligible devices has yet to be confirmed, the Galaxy S25 series is likely to lead the beta rollout.

Launching an early public beta allows Samsung to test One UI 8.5 with a broader user base, helping catch bugs, optimise performance and improve battery stability ahead of a wider release.

Analysts suggest this could also signal a push for more timely software updates across Samsung’s Galaxy ecosystem.

Samsung’s One UI 8.5 update is expected to arrive ahead of the Galaxy S26 launch, which may take place during a February Unpacked event in San Francisco.

If the beta schedule holds, Australian Galaxy users may see the new software shortly after the first phase begins overseas.