The third One UI 8.5 beta might be available for your Galaxy S25 as soon as next week.

      Anticipate additional bug fixes and enhancements in the forthcoming release.

      Samsung's next significant Galaxy Unpacked event is approaching, with rumors indicating that the company intends to unveil the highly awaited Galaxy S26 series later this month. These next-generation flagship models are likely to come equipped with the latest iteration of One UI 8, based on Android 16 QPR2, and Samsung has already commenced beta testing this software on the Galaxy S25 series.

      Last month, Samsung initiated the One UI 8.5 beta program for the Galaxy S25 series and subsequently rolled out a second beta version featuring numerous bug fixes and performance enhancements. Before the stable version becomes available for the Galaxy S25 lineup, the company is expected to issue a few additional beta updates, and we now have an indication of when the next update might be available for beta testers.

      A recent post by tipster Tarun Vats on X (via SamMobile) suggests that Samsung may release the third One UI 8.5 beta for the Galaxy S25 series early next week, potentially on January 5 or 6. However, details regarding the specific changes or fixes included in this update remain undisclosed.

      One UI 8.5 may represent a significant update for Galaxy users.

      Samsung is anticipated to officially launch stable One UI 8.5 alongside the Galaxy S26 series later this month or in early February. Following that, the update should be extended to older models, starting with last year’s flagship series.

      From the information gleaned from leaked internal releases and recent beta versions, One UI 8.5 is expected to introduce a variety of new features. These may include enhanced AI-driven image editing tools, more extensive home and lock screen customization options, a more intelligent Bixby assistant utilizing Perplexity, and a groundbreaking Privacy Display feature aimed at helping users conceal on-screen content from unintended view.

      Many iPhone 17 Pro users are reporting a subtle yet concerning static noise emanating from their device while charging, and the reason behind it is not yet understood. Users of the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are observing an unusual phenomenon: a soft hissing or static sound from the phone's speakers during charging. According to a report from MacRumors, which references conversations on Reddit and Apple’s Community Support forums, users who are affected note that this hissing occurs when their phone is charging (either through a wired connection or MagSafe) while the screen is active. Disconnecting the iPhone ceases the hissing.

      Several smartphones were evaluated by tech YouTuber Zack Nelson this year, all subject to his rigorous durability tests. The multifaceted, albeit somewhat unscientific, evaluations conducted by Nelson on his JerryRigEverything channel involve using various sharp tools on the phones' surfaces, exposing them to gritty conditions, and applying direct flame to the displays. Finally, Nelson tests the structural integrity of the devices using his bare hands and considerable force. Some phones withstand the tests, while others sustain cracks or break apart.

      Samsung's recently introduced budget Galaxy phone offers 5G connectivity and long-term support at a price of $199. The latest budget Galaxy smartphone arrives with extended software support, an AMOLED display, a triple-camera arrangement, and signifies that entry-level devices are no longer considered secondary. Following the introduction of the Galaxy A17 5G in August, Samsung is now making this $199.99 5G smartphone featuring Android 15 available in the United States. For those seeking an economical smartphone with long-lasting software support, a satisfactory multi-camera setup, and a vivid AMOLED display, this might be worth considering. The Galaxy A17 5G boasts a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED screen with a 90Hz refresh rate, ensuring a smoother experience compared to the usual 60Hz. Key attributes of the display include a respectable pixel density of 385 ppi, a maximum brightness of 800 HBM (sufficient for indoors, though slightly less effective outdoors), and protection from Gorilla Glass Victus.