Most of the mobile tech world is currently obsessed with the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 launch. However, the company’s software engineers seem to be living in the future. A fresh leak has revealed that development for One UI 9 is already underway, and the first test builds have been spotted on Samsung’s servers, first for the Galaxy Z Flip 8 and Z Fold 8.
Samsung begins testing for Android 17-based One UI 9 on Galaxy Z Flip 8 and Fold 8
Tech tipster Tarun Vats spotted a specific firmware version (F776USQU0AZB1), pointing directly to the Galaxy Z Flip 8. In the world of Samsung model numbers, this is a signal that the company is moving fast. Historically, Samsung releases its major One UI updates alongside its new foldables in the summer. So, seeing One UI 9 testing now suggests they are aiming for a very polished experience by July or August.
This new version of Samsung’s software will be based on Android 17—internally codenamed “Cinnamon Bun.” While it is still early days, we expect One UI 9 to bring better cross-device synchronization, such as a “Universal Clipboard” to copy and paste text between your phone and tablet seamlessly. There are also rumors of a “glassy” redesign for the interface, moving toward a more translucent and modern look for the control panels and notifications.
A new face in the foldable family?
Perhaps the most exciting part of these findings is the mention of a third, mystery device. Alongside the standard Flip and Fold 8, a new model number (SM-F971U) has surfaced. Rumor has it that this could be a “Wide Fold”—a device with a shorter, wider cover screen that feels more like a traditional smartphone when closed.
This “Wide Fold” might be Samsung’s strategic answer to the growing competition in the foldable market. Samsung is making a wider Fold series device to meet the needs of people who think the current models are too narrow for typing on every day. Also, people say that the first foldable iPhone will have a similar aspect ratio. If these leaks are true, 2026 could be the year that Samsung officially adds more than two shapes to its foldable lineup.
Inside the car
The software is the main focus here, but the hardware is also coming together. Early reports suggest the Galaxy Z Flip 8 will likely use the Exynos 2600 chipset, built on an advanced 2nm process. This should mean better battery life and less heat—two things every foldable owner appreciates.
For now, One UI 9 is behind closed doors, so it’s too early to talk firmly about improvements. Still, its early appearance confirms that Samsung isn’t resting on its laurels. Surely, we will have more news about it in the coming weeks.
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