- Samsung’s One UI 3.0 beta program has opened to Galaxy A and Galaxy M phones.
- It’s initially focused on the A51 5G and M31.
- You may have to wait until March to get the finished Android 11-based release.
You no longer need a higher-end phone to get an early peek at One UI 3.0. As Android Police and Sammy Fans report, Samsung has opened the One UI 3 beta program to its more affordable Galaxy A and M devices, starting with the A51 5G (at least in South Korea) and M31 (at least for Indian users). If you’re using an eligible device, you can sign up for an early look at Samsung’s take on Android 11.
Related: When will your phone get the Android 11 update?
As with earlier One UI 3 releases, the newer software gives the A51 and M31 a mix of built-in Android 11 features as well as Samsung customizations. You’ll now see dedicated sections for conversations and media in the notification shade, for instance. You can also expect more control over the home screen, lock screen and always-on display widgets. Samsung’s Internet browser, camera autofocusing, and Bixby routines have also received some notable improvements.
More Galaxy A and M devices are expected to enter the beta program soon, although you may have to be patient if you’re waiting for a polished release. Samsung’s official roadmap doesn’t have the Galaxy A51 5G or M31 receiving One UI 3 until March 2021, and entry-level phones like the A10 and A20 might not get the Android 11 update until August. For now, only Samsung’s premium phones will have the new OS before 2020 is over.