Robert Triggs / Android Authority
TL; DR
- The first One UI 5 beta for Galaxy S21 devices is now available in the United States.
- This appears to be based on the second beta that was launched for other devices, so Galaxy S21 devices may not be behind the curve.
- You’ll need to use the Samsung Members app to see if you’re eligible for the beta.
In August, Android 13 was announced. The new version of Android is already available on Pixel phones, but Samsung phones are still waiting for it. Samsung has been running a beta program, but only for certain devices and in certain regions.
But today, Android 13-based One UI 5 appears to be (partially) available for Galaxy S21 devices here in the United States. Droid-life). This marks the first time Galaxy S21 phones will get a taste of Android 13 (in an official capacity, anyway).
As with previous One UI beta releases, you’ll need to use the Samsung Members app to access the beta. However, not everyone gets it. When you fire up the app, you should see a banner asking you to try UI 5 on your Galaxy S21. If you don’t see the banner, you can’t try the beta. Sometimes closing and reopening the app a few times can cause the banner to appear.
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Interestingly, the update looks different from the initial beta we saw hitting other devices in other countries. This may be the first beta for the Galaxy S21 series in the US, but based on a later beta. That means Galaxy S21 users in the US don’t need to connect to other programs.
One UI 5 brings all the main features of Android 13 to the Galaxy S21 series. It also offers better Material You theme support, stackable widgets, and an improved DeX experience.