One UI 9.0: leaks point to Android 17 and Galaxy Z Fold 8

Samsung appears to be hard at work on its next major refresh of One UI. According to SamMobile, a leaked One UI 8.5 build contains references to One UI 9.0—the first solid sign that preparations are underway. The firmware doesn’t reveal specifics, but the update is almost certain to be based on Android 17.

An official release could land in roughly a year. That said, analysts point out that Samsung has accelerated its update cadence in recent years, so an earlier launch wouldn’t be surprising.

The first devices to get the new software will most likely be the company’s flagship foldables—the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Galaxy Z Flip 8—scheduled to arrive in 2026 with One UI 9 preinstalled. Insiders also say Samsung is planning its first triple-folding smartphone, which could debut with the new interface as well. If that lineup leads the rollout, One UI 9 would double as a showcase for the foldable family.

What changes One UI 9.0 will bring remains unclear. Given where the industry is heading, a stronger focus on AI features seems plausible, even though the current firmware offers no direct clues. Expect more details to surface through leaks before the official announcement; for now, the breadcrumb trail is thin but growing.