The issue with Android smartphones, which are carrier-locked, is the time it takes before the newest software updates finally arrive on a specific handset model.
After a brief stint on limited beta access, Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus owners who participated are reportedly going to receive the official upgrade one day earlier than the rest.
Meanwhile, sources confirm that T-Mobile has started tests on the new operating system on its own carrier-branded models, which are usually configured with company bloatware and other settings. This suggests that the official launch of the new software update might be closer than expected.
Beta Test Ended
In the meantime, the official beta test of the upcoming firmware update for the carrier-unlocked phone models has ended. The United States is among the last few markets where the testing program was offered recently by the manufacturer.
Now that everything has concluded, owners can anticipate the final public build to start its distribution soon in the next few weeks.
Wireless Carriers Begin Their Tests
T-Mobile recently updated its support pages with instructions on how Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus users can try out the Android Oreo firmware on their units. So far, the company is the first wireless network provider to confirm that tests are ongoing for the upcoming update.
Industry experts claim that the latest announcement from the carrier is already a hint that the official firmware will soon be released to the public. According to prior observations, carriers normally perform major tests only when the base firmware has been tested for integrity and met certifications imposed by the device manufacturer, which, in this case, is Samsung.
Other Models Slated For Android Oreo
The Android 8.0 upgrade does not appear to be limited to the two previously mentioned smartphones. T-Mobile is apparently prepared to upgrade the Galaxy Note 8, Galaxy S7, Galaxy S7 Edge, Galaxy Tab E 8, Galaxy J7 Prime, and the Galaxy S8 Active.
However, the company has yet to confirm when the testing phase for the new software will begin for these models.
Worst Case Scenario
Other sources continue to speculate that Android Oreo for the Galaxy S8 Plus and S8 might be delayed even further. The company has declined to reveal a solid date for the official rollout of the software update.
It seems that the manufacturer currently has its hands full with the impending reveal and release of the Galaxy S9, which is scheduled to make its debut on Feb. 25 during the Mobile World Congress 2018 event in Barcelona. Other rumors suggest that Samsung will release the Android Oreo upgrade after the S9 takes center stage this February.
