Samsung restricted experimental users from accessing several core features of Galaxy devices

Samsung simplifies the recovery menu in the One UI 8.5 beta update

In the February release of Samsung’s One UI 8.5 beta, the company significantly reduced the number of items in the Recovery Menu. According to GalaxyClub, the new settings will be invisible to regular users but could substantially change how those who are accustomed to using advanced features of this mode operate.

What was removed
- Apply update via ADB
- Apply update from SD card
- Clear cache partition
- View recovery logs
- Run graphics test
- Run localization test

What remains
The menu now offers only three commands:

1. Reboot system now
2. Wipe data / factory reset
3. Power off

Availability of the update
The February patch is already rolling out to:
- Galaxy S25
- Galaxy Z Flip 7
- Galaxy Z Flip 7 FE
- Galaxy Z Fold 7

It is expected to appear on other Galaxy models in the coming weeks.

Specific cases*
Galaxy S25 Ultra with the One UI 8.5 beta still uses the old recovery menu.
* Galaxy S25 models with the stable One UI 8.0 already received the new simplified menu.

Samsung notification
When installing the firmware, a message appears warning: “You will not be able to revert to previous software due to changes in security policy.”

Why this matters for advanced users
The recovery menu has long been a valuable tool for experienced Android users:
- Clearing cache helped resolve issues after updates (rapid battery drain, lag, crashes).
- The “Apply update via ADB” and similar options were used for manually installing third‑party builds, including Google’s beta releases for Pixel.

Reason for the reduction
According to 9to5Google, Samsung’s decision is linked to tightening security measures. The company aims to reduce the risk of One UI build leaks and raise overall device protection levels.