Samsung is preparing its fourth One UI 8.5 beta update for the Galaxy S25 series, and this one might actually matter.
Unlike the previous three releases that mostly patched bugs and tweaked stability, the upcoming build reportedly includes a significant kernel jump: from version 6.6.77 to 6.6.98. That’s 21 versions in a single update, the first kernel upgrade since One UI 8.5 development began.
The kernel sits between Android and your phone’s hardware. It’s not flashy, but it controls how efficiently everything runs. A newer kernel can tighten security, optimize memory usage, improve file system handling, and update hardware drivers. In theory, that means better performance and fewer edge-case crashes.
Leaker @UniverseIce claims the Galaxy S25 Ultra running the new kernel feels noticeably smoother: better animations, sharper touch response, and improved overall fluidity. That’s promising, but it’s also anecdotal. Real-world impact won’t be clear until the update rolls out more widely.
If Samsung does release the fourth beta next week as anticipated, early adopters should see the firmware version ending in ZZAA. Whether the kernel upgrade translates into tangible improvements or just background housekeeping remains to be seen.
For now, it’s worth noting that Samsung doesn’t usually push kernel updates mid-beta cycle without reason. Something changed under the hood, and the company clearly thinks it’s worth the risk of introducing new variables this late in testing.
