Samsung has postponed the expected rollout of the One UI 8.5 Beta 4 update for the Galaxy S25 series, but this delay appears to be for a compelling reason. Instead of a routine bug-fix build, the company seems to be integrating more significant changes, potentially making the wait worthwhile for testers.
According to a reliable Samsung leaker Tarun Vats, who accurately predicted previous beta releases, the fourth beta was slated for a release early this week with build version ZZAB. This build, whose changelog was briefly leaked, promised fixes for issues in the Phone app and Bluetooth calling, alongside a Bixby update. However, Samsung unexpectedly pulled the ZZAB build from its servers. The tipster now reports that a new, updated build with the firmware version ZZAD has been uploaded for testing.
This shift from ZZAB to ZZAD suggests Samsung is actively refining the beta beyond the initially planned scope. The most notable addition likely being tested is a kernel upgrade to version 6.6.98. This same kernel was part of an earlier internal build (ZZAA) but was absent from the planned ZZAB release. Its reintegration into the ZZAD build indicates Samsung is prioritizing performance and stability enhancements that a kernel update can bring, such as smoother animations, improved touch response, and better memory management.
Furthermore, the new build may reintroduce a feature called Direct Voicemail. The combination of a deeper system-level kernel upgrade and a new feature justifies the delay, positioning Beta 4 as a more substantial step toward the final One UI 8.5 release.
For Galaxy S25 users enrolled in the beta program, the installation process remains the same once the update finally arrives. They can navigate to Settings > Software update > Download and install to check for the OTA package. The delay underscores Samsung’s commitment to delivering a polished experience, even if it means pushing back the timeline.
This development signals that the stable version of One UI 8.5 is shaping up to be a significant upgrade. We anticipate the final build will debut with the Galaxy S26 series, which is rumored for a February launch, before rolling out to older flagship devices like the Galaxy S25 in the following months.
