Samsung’s One UI 8.5 Update: What to Expect in 2026
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Samsung is set to reintroduce its One UI x.5 version with the upcoming One UI 8.5, a move that breaks from recent update strategies. The update is anticipated to launch with the Galaxy S26 series in early 2026, bringing the Android 16 experience to Samsung devices. This marks a return to a versioning system last seen between One UI 1.0 and 3.0, with updates like one UI 1.1, 1.5, 2.1 and 2.5.
The Return of One UI x.5
Samsung previously replaced the x.5 versions with x.1.1 updates, focusing on foldable phones and features tailored to that form factor. The decision to bring back the x.5 version indicates a potential shift in how Samsung delivers incremental improvements and new functionalities to its user interface.
did You Know? Samsung skipped One UI 8.1, opting to go directly to One UI 8.5 following One UI 8.0.
One UI 8.5 Release and Potential Features
One UI 8.5,built on Android 16,is slated to premiere with the Galaxy S26 series in early 2026.As of now, specific details regarding new features remain under wraps. while new Galaxy AI functionalities are a possibility, expectations are tempered given the nature of the update.The scope of features included will likely influence how quickly the update rolls out to existing devices.
Pro Tip: Software update timelines are always subject to change, so stay tuned for official announcements from Samsung.
Eligible Devices for One UI 8.5
The devices eligible for the One UI 8.5 update are expected to largely mirror those receiving One UI 8. This includes flagship Galaxy phones launched as 2022,as well as numerous mid-range and select budget phones and tablets released from 2023 onward. For some devices, One UI 8.5 may represent the final feature update.
Potential Device list
The following table provides a tentative list of devices that could perhaps receive the One UI 8.5 update:
| Series | Examples |
|---|---|
| galaxy S | (e.g., Galaxy S22, Galaxy S23, Galaxy S24) |
| Galaxy Z | (e.g., Galaxy Z Fold 4, Galaxy Z Flip 4, Galaxy Z Fold 5, galaxy Z Flip 5) |
| Galaxy A | (e.g., Galaxy A53, Galaxy A54, Galaxy A34) |
| Galaxy Tab | (e.g.,Galaxy Tab S8,Galaxy Tab S9) |
| Galaxy F | (e.g., Galaxy F54) |
| Galaxy M | (e.g., Galaxy M54) |
| Galaxy XCover | (e.g., Galaxy XCover 6 Pro) |
It’s crucial to note that this list is speculative and subject to change based on Samsung’s official announcements.
Samsung’s One UI has been praised for its user-kind interface and customization options [1]. The company’s commitment to software updates has also been a key selling point for many users [2].
Evergreen Insights on Samsung’s One UI
Samsung’s One UI has evolved significantly as its inception,focusing on providing a streamlined and intuitive user experience. The interface is known for its “One-handed Operation” mode, which optimizes the layout for easier use on larger screens.Samsung also regularly incorporates user feedback to refine and improve One UI with each iteration.
Frequently asked Questions About Samsung One UI 8.5
What features are you hoping to see in One UI 8.5? Which Samsung device are you planning to update?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and subscribe for more updates on Samsung’s one UI!
