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Introduction: A Surprise Update That Few Expected
Samsung appears to be quietly extending the lifespan of its older foldable smartphones. While attention has been largely focused on the Galaxy S25 series and the upcoming Galaxy S26 lineup, new evidence suggests that Samsung is actively testing One UI 8.5, based on Android 16 QPR2, for devices released back in 2022. This unexpected move signals that Samsung’s software support strategy for foldables may be more aggressive than many users assumed.
the Original
Samsung recently rolled out One UI 8.5 in beta form for its latest flagship devices, starting with the Galaxy S25 series. This version of Samsung’s custom Android skin is expected to officially debut alongside the Galaxy S26 family, after which it will gradually reach other supported smartphones. In preparation for that wider rollout, Samsung has been internally testing the software across a broad range of devices, including the Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S23 series, as well as newer foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7, Z Fold 6, and Z Flip 6.
New findings now reveal that Samsung has expanded these tests to include the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Flip 4, both launched in 2022. Firmware builds carrying One UI 8.5 have been spotted on Samsung’s servers, strongly indicating active internal testing. The Galaxy Z Fold 4 is associated with firmware version F936BXXUAJZAH, while the Galaxy Z Flip 4 is linked to F721BXXUAJZAH.
One UI 8.5 focuses on delivering a cleaner, more organized, and more modern interface. The update emphasizes improved usability and deeper customization options, alongside a range of new features designed to make compatible devices feel refreshed rather than outdated. For users still holding onto older foldables, this development suggests that Samsung is not ready to leave them behind just yet, and that a stable update could arrive once testing is complete.
What Undercode Say:
Samsung’s decision to test One UI 8.5 on the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Flip 4 is more significant than it may initially appear. Foldable devices are often perceived as experimental or short-lived compared to traditional flagship phones, largely due to their complex hardware and higher prices. By extending major software testing to foldables that are now four years old, Samsung is sending a clear message: foldables are no longer niche experiments, but long-term flagship products.
From a strategic standpoint, this move strengthens Samsung’s position against competitors in the foldable market. Software longevity has become a major selling point, especially as consumers grow more cautious about upgrading every year. If Samsung can convincingly offer extended Android and One UI support for foldables, it reduces one of the biggest psychological barriers to buying such expensive devices.
There is also a practical dimension to this update. One UI 8.5’s cleaner interface and enhanced customization are particularly important for foldables, where multitasking, split-screen usage, and UI consistency across folded and unfolded states matter more than raw performance gains. Even without dramatic new features, smoother UI behavior and visual refinements can significantly improve daily usability on large, flexible displays.
However, it is worth noting that server-side firmware sightings do not guarantee an immediate public release. Internal testing can take months, and features may be scaled back for older hardware. Still, the very existence of these builds suggests that Samsung is at least seriously evaluating full support rather than offering a stripped-down or symbolic update.
In a broader industry context, this move aligns with Samsung’s recent push toward longer software support policies. As Android manufacturers increasingly promise four to seven years of updates, failing to support premium foldables would undermine that narrative. For users who invested heavily in the Galaxy Z Fold 4 or Flip 4, One UI 8.5 could represent not just a cosmetic refresh, but reassurance that their devices remain relevant in Samsung’s ecosystem.
Fact Checker Results
The firmware versions listed for the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Flip 4 match Samsung’s standard internal build naming conventions.
Server-side firmware sightings are a reliable indicator of active testing, though not of final release dates.
No official Samsung announcement has yet confirmed public availability of One UI 8.5 for these devices.
Prediction
If internal testing proceeds without major issues, Samsung is likely to roll out One UI 8.5 to the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Flip 4 shortly after the Galaxy S26 launch. This would further reinforce Samsung’s long-term software support promise and could set a new expectation for update longevity in the foldable smartphone market.
🕵️📝✔️Let’s dive deep and fact‑check.
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