Samsung Urges Galaxy Users to Delete High-Risk Apps Ahead of One UI 9 Release

Samsung has started warning Galaxy users to delete high-risk apps from their devices. This warning comes as the company rolls out its delayed One UI 8.5 upgrade and prepares for the release of One UI 9, which will bring Android 17 to Galaxy smartphones. It's a major update that won't be available to all devices at once.

The new Android firmware is expected to deliver a range of security updates. These updates include enhanced protection against suspicious apps and potential threats. According to Samsung, One UI 9 will introduce a new feature that warns users when high-risk apps are detected. It will block their execution and installation, and recommend deletion through security policy updates.

In the first One UI 9 beta, users can find a new entry for Manage unknown apps within Settings

Security and privacy

More security settings. This feature includes a clear warning that says:

The apps below may put your phone and data at risk because they weren’t installed from an approved source such as the Play Store or Galaxy Store. Uninstall any apps that you don’t trust or recognize. You shouldn't install apps from unapproved sources, as they can pose a significant risk to your device.

This move is part of Google's and Samsung's efforts to clamp down on sideloading. Google's new policy change forces developers to be registered before they can push apps to mainstream devices. Android 17 also enhances live threat detection to catch threats early. It's an essential feature that will help protect users from potential threats.

Samsung was earlier than Google in locking down phones to protect against malicious apps installed from outside the Play Store or its own store. The company has taken a significant step forward with this easy one-touch option to isolate all such apps and then delete them from a phone. It's a feature that won't be available on all devices immediately.

But the real question is how fast it will find its way onto phones. One UI 8.5 was finally released some five months after the first beta went live. No one will want to see this repeated with One UI 9. Android 17 upgrades won't hit all devices at the same time. They'll hit Pixels fairly soon, though.

Per T3, Android 17 is expected to make its debut on Pixel sometime in June or July 2026. Samsung will debut One UI 9 and Android 17 on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8 – expected to launch on July 22. Google has already confirmed that Android 17 will focus on security and privacy. It's narrowing the gap to iPhone, which is known for its strong security features.

As for which Galaxy phones will get to test these new features, SammyFans says that since the Galaxy S26 series has already received the One UI 9 beta update, the next devices expected to get it are Samsung’s latest foldable phones – the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7. Samsung is expected to launch new foldable models soon with a stable version of One UI 9. It won't be long before we see these new devices.

This move by Samsung and Google is a significant step towards enhancing the security of Android devices. With the increasing number of cyber threats, it's essential for users to be aware of the apps they install on their devices. They should keep their software up to date. Galaxy owners will want to see these new features for themselves and experience the improved security that One UI 9 has to offer. They won't be disappointed, as the new features will provide an added layer of protection.

As the release of One UI 9 approaches, users can expect a range of new features and improvements. The enhanced security features will provide users with an added layer of protection against malicious apps and threats. With the new Manage unknown apps feature, users will have more control over the apps installed on their devices. They'll be able to uninstall any apps that they don't trust or recognize.

The rollout of One UI 9 will be a significant milestone for Samsung and Google. It will mark a new era in Android security, with a focus on protecting users from potential threats. As the Android ecosystem continues to evolve, it's essential for users to stay informed about the latest developments. They should take necessary precautions to secure their devices. They can't be too careful when it comes to their device's security.

In the coming weeks and months, we can expect to see more information about One UI 9 and its features. Samsung and Google will likely provide more details about the update, including its release date and the devices that will be eligible for the upgrade. For now, Galaxy users can take steps to protect their devices by being cautious when installing apps. They should keep their software up to date, as it's the best way to ensure their device's security.