We all love getting something for free, and if you're reading this and use a Samsung Galaxy S23 series device, chances are you just have. That's because a major update has just been made available for users in a host of new territories.
The One UI 6 beta program opened late last week, offering users the chance to test out the latest version of Samsung's software before it gets a public release. The new operating system runs on the latest Android 14 software, with a few additional lashings of Samsung flair for good measure.
Previously, the beta software was only available to users in the USA, South Korea and Germany. But now, users in China, India, Poland and the UK can also get access.
It's a great upgrade. While there's not really a headline feature upgrade this time out, it does come with a suite of smaller changes which should add up to a decent boost for users.
Among the most notable features are a new back arrow for easier navigation. That hovers on the left-hand side of the screen, and should give users a better idea of whether they're heading back a single page, or to the home screen – something which hasn't always been abundantly clear, before now. There are also upgrades to accessibility features, more detailed control for media sharing and more.
On top of that, Samsung have had some fun with things. There's a new default font, which will likely be the most noticeable change. They've also redesigned the quick panel, and made it easier to access the panel in a hurry.
The new update means that users with a base model S23, a Samsung Galaxy S23+ or a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra can gain access to the new operating system. Don't panic if you're still using an older Samsung phone, either.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
Generally, the brand debut the beta access on their most recent device range, before moving on to older, supported handsets. It may take a little longer – generally the roll out happens over the space of a few weeks – but you'll get the same opportunity before long.
If you'd prefer to wait for the full public release, you can. There's currently no date set in stone for that to be released, with Samsung only saying that it will come out after feedback from the beta is implemented.
Sam is an award-winning journalist with over six years of experience across print and digital media. As T3’s Senior Staff Writer, Sam covers everything from new phones and EVs to luxury watches and fragrances. Working across a range of different social media platforms alongside his written work, Sam is a familiar face for fans of T3. When he’s not reviewing snazzy products or hunting for stellar deals, Sam enjoys football, analog photography and writing music.
-
Scrap long workouts — this 20-minute session helps build muscle and strength all over
Don’t want to head to the gym either? You can do this workout from the comfort of your home
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
Google Wallet could get a useful upgrade for organisation in the near future
Finding things in your Google Wallet is going to be even easier soon
By Sam Cross Published
-
The fourth, mystery Samsung Galaxy S25 might have been found online
Details about a slim Galaxy S25 have appeared – will it launch soon?
By Chris Hall Published
-
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra fans could be disappointed in one key area
It could spell the beginning of the end for a beloved piece of hardware
By Sam Cross Published
-
Samsung Galaxy S25 set to get killer camera upgrade
Photographers will love this change
By Sam Cross Published
-
Qualcomm hints at major hardware shift for Samsung Galaxy S25
Does this signal the end of the Snapdragon or Exynos debate?
By Chris Hall Published
-
Samsung teases that a surprise, extra S25 could launch at Galaxy Unpacked this month
At Galaxy Unpacked, Slim could be in
By Chris Hall Published
-
Samsung Galaxy S25 launch date confirmed – Galaxy Unpacked invite arrives
Samsung sets the date for its biggest phone launch of the year
By Chris Hall Published
-
Samsung's new Galaxy Book5 Pro could give Apple's MacBook Pro a run for its money
It's thinner, lighter and has longer battery life
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
Future Samsung phone update could be an AI-powered window to the outside world
A recently unveiled patent could spell a big change to your wallpaper
By Sam Cross Published