With all of the Pixel 2 excitement the past few weeks, many Samsung fans are feeling left out on that new software hotness. If you’re anxiously awaiting the Android Oreo update on your Galaxy S8 or S8+, that wait may come to an end this week. Users over on Reddit decompiled the APK for the Samsung+ app to reveal multiple mentions of the upcoming Oreo Beta Program for the Galaxy S8 and S8+.
The Samsung+ app is the official source for users in the US to get tips, offers, and join special programs (like the software beta program) sponsored by Samsung. When decompiling the APK, Reddit user mweinbach uncovered the following interesting text:
Experience Android 8.0 Oreo for Galaxy S8, S8 plus earlier than others by Galaxy Beta Program. First come, first served.
In addition to the references in text, image files were found that show the Samsung Beta logo next to a Galaxy S8. The only variants eligible for the beta in the US will be T-Mobile, Sprint, and the unlocked models. There are 7,500 beta spots available per carrier (same for the unlocked model), so you will need to be quick when signing up. Of course, that means you need to know when to furiously check the Samsung+ app to get into the beta.
According to same Reddit user that decompiled the APK, November 2 at 11:00 AM is the time to be near your phone as the beta rolls out. Is this date credible? Looking at the previous track record of the source, they have been involved in Samsung beta leaks before and are very active in both the Samsung subreddit and XDA forums.
It might not be a bad idea to check the Samsung+ app on Thursday morning, though Samsung could change their plans at any time. Either way, it is worth noting that all of these beta references in official APKs do point toward a launch in the very near future.
The US will not be alone in enjoying the S8 Oreo Beta. Android World has noticed references to the launch countries inside the Samsung Members app, which is similar to Samsung+, but for the European market. The first wave to participate in the beta will include North America, the United Kingdom, and Korea. The second wave will take place in China, France, Germany, India, Poland, and Spain.
Are you looking forward to Oreo on your Galaxy S8/S8+ device? Will you try to sneak into the beta program? Let us know in the comments below!
UPDATE: The Galaxy S8 Oreo Beta changelog leaked via screenshots on Reddit. Several Android Oreo features are on the way to the Galaxy S8. Check out our coverage below to find out what you can look forward to!
Hot Deal: Set up a secure second phone number and keep your real contact details hidden with a yearly subscription to Hushed Private Phone Line for Android/iOS, 83%–91% off. It’s a perfect second-line solution for making calls and sending texts related to work, dating, Craigslist sales, and other scenarios where you wouldn’t want to give out your primary phone number.
“Hey there, just a heads-up: We’re part of the Amazon affiliate program, so when you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small commission. But don’t worry, it doesn’t cost you anything extra and helps us keep the lights on. Thanks for your support!”
