One UI 8.5 Debuts with Galaxy S26 Series
Samsung has officially unveiled the stable version of One UI 8.5 in conjunction with the launch of the Galaxy S26 series at its recent Unpacked event. After several months of beta testing that began in early December, the new interface is now ready for prime time, debuting on the Galaxy S26 phones straight out of the box. This update brings a host of artificial intelligence enhancements and improved customisation options, signalling a significant step forward in Samsung’s software experience.
Key Features and Improvements in One UI 8.5
The One UI 8.5 update introduces a range of new features designed to enhance usability and productivity across Samsung’s Galaxy devices. Users will notice improved customisation within the Quick Settings menu, which now allows for separating and rotating the volume and brightness sliders for greater control. Notification management has also been upgraded with iOS-style notification summaries and options to block or limit overly spammy alerts, helping users maintain focus.
For those using single-SIM Galaxy phones, the update adds the ability to switch between a physical SIM and an eSIM for calls and mobile data, offering more flexibility in connectivity. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate AI-powered photo editing that enables modifications through text prompts, similar to Google Photos’ Help Me Edit feature. Additionally, Creative Studio allows users to store and access all their custom stickers directly from the keyboard, while the Gallery app now automatically organises screenshots into separate folders for easier navigation.
Samsung has also enhanced its AI assistant Bixby, making it more conversational and capable of handling complex tasks via a new feature called Perplexity, which integrates web searches and system app assistance. The update further refines the Now Brief and Now Bar functions, with tentative event suggestions and more contextual recommendations. A new search shortcut named Finder appears above pinned apps on the home screen, enabling semantic system-level searches. Another notable addition is Now Nudge, which offers smart response suggestions by pulling information from other apps, reminiscent of Google Pixel’s Magic Cue.
Galaxy S26 Series Highlights
The Galaxy S26 Ultra stands out as Samsung’s slimmest and lightest Ultra model to date, featuring a 6.9-inch 10-bit display and powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy chipset. It boasts a redesigned cooling system and a significant camera upgrade with a brighter 200MP main sensor, enhanced zoom capabilities, and advanced 8K video features. Privacy and AI tools exclusive to the Ultra model further enrich the user experience.
The Galaxy S26 Plus offers a balanced package with a large display, a substantial 4,900mAh battery, and faster wireless charging. It shares the Galaxy AI enhancements found in the Ultra but comes at a more accessible price point. Meanwhile, the standard Galaxy S26 model provides a compact flagship experience with a slightly larger display than its predecessor, solid battery life, and the full suite of Galaxy AI features, making it an attractive option for those seeking performance without the premium cost.
Rollout and Eligible Devices
While the Galaxy S26 series ships with One UI 8.5 pre-installed, Samsung has indicated that older devices will receive the update in due course. The Galaxy S25 series, having participated in the beta programme, is expected to be the first among existing phones to gain the new interface. Other flagship devices slated for the update include the Galaxy S24, S23, and various Galaxy Z Fold and Flip models, as well as the latest Galaxy Tab S series tablets.
Since One UI 8.5 is based on Android 16, devices that have already received the final Android 16 version, such as the Galaxy S22 series, Galaxy S21 FE, and Galaxy Z Fold 4, are also likely candidates for the update. Samsung has yet to provide a detailed rollout schedule for these models and other Galaxy A, F, and M series devices but is expected to clarify this in the near future.
Looking Ahead
Samsung’s release of One UI 8.5 alongside the Galaxy S26 series marks a notable advancement in its software ecosystem, especially with the integration of AI-driven features and enhanced customisation. As the update gradually reaches older devices, users can anticipate a more refined and intelligent experience across a broad range of Galaxy smartphones and tablets. Keeping an eye on Samsung’s announcements will be key to knowing when your device will receive the latest interface.