Samsung has begun internal testing for One UI 9, based on Android 17, on its Galaxy A35 and Galaxy A07 4G smartphones.

• The official release of One UI 9 is expected to debut next month.
• Samsung is reportedly expanding testing to more devices earlier than usual.
• This development highlights the importance of Samsung's entry-level A0x series in its global strategy, evidenced by the inclusion of the budget-oriented Galaxy A07 4G.

Samsung has begun rolling out the One UI 8.5 update for its Galaxy A24 model, enhancing features for Kenyan users.

• The update brings a personalized interface with transparent blur effects and new interactive wallpapers.
• Key features include an improved weather widget with a pollen index, Direct Voice Messages, and enhanced connectivity options like upgraded auto-hotspot.
• This update ensures the Galaxy A24, launched with Android 13, remains on track for future major OS and security updates.

Apple has introduced significant improvements to RCS messaging in its iOS 27 Beta 2 update, enhancing features like inline replies and emoji reactions for cross-platform chats.

• The advancements are largely irrelevant to Kenyan users, as basic RCS functionality remains unavailable for many Android users in the country.
• Key players include Apple and Google Messages (which powers RCS on Android).
• The core issue for Kenyans is the widespread loss of RCS activation and its features, with no clear explanation or resolution from local operators.