Leaked logs from the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra indicate the presence of the Android Virtualization Framework, suggesting it could run a full Linux terminal similar to Google Pixel devices. This feature, introduced by Google in Android 16's QPR2 update, enables a complete Linux environment on smartphones. The S26 Ultra is expected to launch with One UI 8.5 based on the same Android version.
Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra appears poised to bridge a gap with Google's Pixel lineup by potentially offering full Linux terminal support. According to reports from Android Authority, leaked log files from the device mention the Android Virtualization Framework (AVF), a crucial component absent in the previous Galaxy S25 Ultra. AVF underpins the Linux Terminal feature, which Google rolled out last year on Pixel smartphones, allowing users to run a full Linux environment directly on the device.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is slated to debut with One UI 8.5, built on Android 16's second quarterly platform release (QPR2). This aligns with the version where Google introduced Linux Terminal, setting the stage for Samsung to enable access to Linux-based applications that typically require a computer. Developers and tinkerers stand to benefit from this extended functionality, expanding what mobile devices can achieve without additional hardware.
Currently, Samsung's One UI 8.0, based on the initial Android 16, lacks system-level support for this capability. There is no confirmation yet on whether Samsung will extend Linux Terminal to older flagships like the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Z Fold 7, or Z TriFold via the One UI 8.5 update, though their hardware is deemed capable. The stable One UI 8.5 is expected alongside the Galaxy S26 series launch in February 2026, bringing visual and functional enhancements beyond Linux support.
This development highlights Samsung's efforts to match advanced software features from competitors, potentially appealing to a niche but enthusiastic user base focused on development and customization.
