Samsung Updates Galaxy A26 with May Patch Ahead of One UI 8.5

Samsung is continuing its rapid May 2026 update rollout, and for a change, mid-range models are leading the line this time. While the update has also reached flagships like the Galaxy S26 and S25, the company has released the new security patch for mid-range models at a quicker pace than before. The latest device to receive this month’s security fixes is the Galaxy A26.

Galaxy A26 grabs the May 2026 security update

Samsung is now rolling out its latest security patch to the Galaxy A26 in Europe (thanks, X/@rezasadat801). The device is getting a 290MB update carrying the firmware version BZE5. As expected, the update focuses on security enhancements and stability improvements. Speaking of which, the May 2026 release from Samsung addresses 39 vulnerabilities across various Android OS, One UI, and Galaxy components.

The Galaxy A26 is also in line to receive a major feature update soon. Samsung is currently preparing One UI 8.5 for the device, having already updated the Galaxy A56 and A36 in some regions. It brings smoother animations, a cleaner visual style, and several practical usability improvements across the system. The update also refines core apps like Samsung Internet, Gallery, and Settings.

Additionally, One UI 8.5 improves multitasking and split-screen behavior on Galaxy devices. Samsung has also expanded Galaxy AI features, adding smarter writing tools, better voice processing, and more contextual suggestions throughout the interface, but mid-range models like the Galaxy A26 aren’t eligible for those.

Nonetheless, One UI 8.5 could arrive on this mid-range phone later this month or in early June. If you are using it, install the May patch to prepare yourself for the big update. As always, availability depends on the market, carrier, and device variant, so some users may receive the patch later than others. You can manually check for the update by heading to Settings > Software update > Download and install.