Samsung is continuing work on One UI 9 based on Android 17 and is gradually expanding internal testing of the new interface. Now, a test firmware build for the affordable Galaxy A16 5G has reportedly appeared online.
According to data from the company’s servers, a new firmware version with the number A166BXXU8EZF1 has been spotted for the European model. That suggests adaptation of One UI 9 for the Galaxy A16 5G is already underway.
Still, owners of the phone should not expect a beta release right away. For now, Samsung appears to be focusing mainly on testing One UI 9 for the future flagship Galaxy S26 lineup, which is expected to be one of the main candidates for an early stable release.
Earlier reports also claimed that Samsung’s next foldable phones could be the first devices to ship with One UI 9 out of the box. Rumors point to three models this year: Galaxy Z Flip8, Galaxy Z Fold8, and Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra. Their announcement is expected on July 22 at an event in London.
Besides the Galaxy A16 5G, the company is also testing One UI 9 for several other devices. The list includes the Galaxy S25 series, Galaxy A17 5G, Galaxy A34, Galaxy A57, and the still-unannounced Galaxy S26 FE.
Samsung is steadily expanding One UI 9 testing, and the appearance of the Galaxy A16 5G on that list looks like a promising sign for owners of cheaper Galaxy models.