Samsung has begun internal testing of One UI 9 builds for its upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 foldables. Test firmware versions surfaced on Samsung's servers this week, revealing development progress for devices scheduled to launch in the second half of 2026.
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 test build carries firmware version F976USQU0AZB1, while the Z Flip 8 version is F776USQU0AZB1. Both devices will ship with One UI 9 based on Android 17, which Google internally codenamed "Cinnamon Bun."
Samsung's next-generation software testing appears ahead of schedule, with One UI 8.5 still rolling out to current devices.
Leaker Tarun Vats first identified the test builds on Samsung's servers. The model numbers SM-F976U and SM-F776U correspond to US-locked versions of the Fold 8 and Flip 8 respectively.
Early testing suggests Samsung aims for polished software by the expected July or August launch window.
Samsung's immediate focus remains the Galaxy S26 series launch later this month. Those devices will debut with One UI 8.5 before the foldable lineup arrives with the newer software.
The company typically releases major One UI updates alongside its premium foldables each summer.
The Galaxy Z Flip 8 may feature Samsung's Exynos 2600 chipset built on a 2nm process. This follows the Z Flip 7's Exynos 2500 configuration.
Some reports suggest the Flip 8 could be the first device to use a Samsung-made Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, though that remains unconfirmed.
Samsung also appears to be testing a third foldable device with model number SM-F971U. Referred to as the "Wide Fold" in leaks, this model reportedly features a more traditional screen ratio and could compete with Apple's anticipated foldable iPhone.
The wider form factor may replace last year's Z Flip FE model.
One UI 9 development precedes Google's Android 17 beta, which was delayed this week. Samsung typically begins software testing months before public release to ensure stability across its device ecosystem.
Samsung's recent foldables have typically launched with current Android versions, though the Z Fold 3 debuted with Android 11/One UI 3.1.1 before Android 12 was available.
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 will represent Samsung's eighth generation of foldable smartphones. Both devices are expected to maintain similar form factors to their predecessors while incorporating hardware improvements and the new software experience.
Samsung's test server activity indicates smooth development progress for its 2026 foldable lineup. More details about One UI 9 features and hardware specifications should emerge in the coming months as testing continues.
