Samsung has released Android 8.0 Oreo beta for the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+. The new update is available through "Samsung Experience 9.0" in South Korea, the US, and the UK.
Users need to sign up for the beta registration by logging into the Samsung Members app or the Samsung+ app. The update is specifically designed for devices available in South Korea on SKT, KT or LG U+ or locked on Sprint or T-Mobile in the US. UK users need to have an unlocked Galaxy S8 or Galaxy S8+ unit to test the Oreo presence.
Samsung will leverage the beta release to "gather helpful insights and feedback" from users on their first impressions of the Experience 9.0 performance and usability. These developments will help the company enhance the Android Oreo experience for worldwide Galaxy S8 users.
"Following Samsung Experience version 8.5, which was released with the Galaxy Note 8, Samsung Experience 9.0 is based on the latest version of the operating system built on the Android Oreo UI and UX, and will be available on the next flagship Galaxy device," Samsung said in a statement.
While Samsung hasn't highlighted any particular changes in the new Android beta version, a Reddit user, who received the early access, has revealed some of the key features. There are launcher shortcuts and coloured media notifications alongside a smoother experience - at par with the Galaxy Note 8 and stock Android-running Pixel handsets.
The update certainly brings a list of features that Google has provided on core Android Oreo. For instance, you can access Google Assistant by saying "OK Google" hotword with the screen is turned off while charging. You can also expect features such as notification dots with colour distinctions, enhanced autofills, and Android Instant app support. Additionally, the update is reported to have some redesigned Samsung apps. "The new things I've noticed are all the Oreo features, and some of the Samsung apps have been redesigned," the Redditor wrote in an Ask Me Anything (AMA) session.
Samsung had reportedly started testing the Android Oreo update for the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ in September. The flagship Galaxy series device was originally launched with Android 7.1 Nougat earlier this year.
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