Samsung’s One UI 7 Beta, based on Android 15 has so far been a playground for Galaxy S24, Z Fold 6, and Tab S9 users. But new leaks suggest the beta program may soon expand to older flagships and even mid-range devices including the Galaxy Galaxy A/Z/S series.
If you’re rocking a Galaxy S22, Z Fold 4 or an A55, your phone might soon join the test-drive phase. Here’s the latest.
Which Devices Are Likely Eligible?
Samsung’s beta programs typically start with flagship models but rumors hint at a broader rollout this year. According to tipsters and code snippets in the Samsung Members app the following devices could gain beta access in late 2024:
- Galaxy S Series: S23, S24, and possibly S22 (if Samsung breaks its 4-year update rule).
- Galaxy Z Series: Z Fold 5/6, Z Flip 5/6, and maybe Z Fold 4.
- Galaxy A Series: A55 5G, A35 5G (a rare beta chance for mid-range users!).
This aligns with Samsung’s push to refine One UI 7 across price tiers, ensuring smoother software for its massive user base.
What Features Could Mid-Range Users Test?
While flagships get the flashiest tools Galaxy A series testers might preview:
- AI-Powered Photo Enhancements: Basic version of the S24 object eraser or background blur.
- Battery Optimization Tweaks: Adaptive settings to stretch A-series battery life.
- Privacy Dashboard Lite: Simplified app permission controls.
Foldable owners, meanwhile, could test Flex Mode upgrades, like auto-pausing videos when partially closed or split-screen multitasking tailored to the Fold display.
How to Prepare for the One UI 7?
- Check Eligibility: Open the Samsung Members app and look for “Beta Program” alerts under “Notifications” or “Benefits.”
- Back Up Everything: Use Samsung Cloud or a physical backup—beta software can corrupt data.
- Free Up Space: The update may require 5–10GB of free storage.
- Read the Fine Print: Beta builds often exclude carrier-locked models (sorry, Verizon users).
Risks: Why You Might Want to Wait
Beta testing isn’t for the faint of heart. Early S24 testers report:
- App Crashes: Banking apps like Chase or PayPal may glitch.
- Battery Drain: One UI 7 AI features can be power-hungry.
- Limited Rollback Options: Reverting to stable software may require a factory reset.
For A-series owners, these risks are higher—mid-range hardware has less margin for error.
Why This Expansion Matters?
Including mid-range devices in beta testing is a strategic move. It helps Samsung:
- Improve Stability: Catch bugs specific to lower-tier processors (like Exynos 1480).
- Build Hype: Let budget users feel like VIPs fostering brand loyalty.
- Compete with Pixel: Google’s Feature Drops often include mid-range Pixels—Samsung needs to keep pace.
Timeline and Final Thoughts
- Flagships (S/Z Series): Beta access could arrive by October 2024.
- Mid-Range (A Series): Likely delayed until Q1 2025, post-flagship feedback.
If you’re itching to try Android 15 early the beta offers a thrilling (if risky) peek at Samsung’s software future. But for most A-series users, waiting for the stable release is wiser. After all patience avoids panic when your grocery list app starts speaking Klingon.
Follow Samsung’s community forums for beta invites. Sometimes, they’re quietly posted before app notifications go live! Whether you’re a foldable fanatic or a mid-range warrior One UI 7 is shaping up to be a transformative update. Keep your charger handy—and maybe a backup phone.
