Samsung is gearing up to release the next iteration of its One UI, version 8.5, with a beta program expected to begin soon. This update, based on Android 16, promises a range of new features, visual tweaks, and performance improvements for Galaxy devices.

Release Timeline

According to leaked information, the One UI 8.5 beta program is slated to roll out in phases. The initial phase, potentially starting on December 8, 2025, is expected to include the United States, the United Kingdom, South Korea, and Germany. Approximately two weeks later, around December 22, the beta program may expand to include India and Poland.

Following the initial releases, a One UI 8.5 Beta 2 update is anticipated for the first-phase markets around December 22, with a Beta 3 build potentially arriving in early January 2026. These dates are subject to change, as is common with beta programs. The stable version of One UI 8.5 is expected to be unveiled alongside the Galaxy S26 series, with a broader rollout to other devices potentially beginning in mid-March 2026. If the stable rollout begins in March, the update should be completed for all eligible devices by the end of May 2026.

Exciting New Features

One UI 8.5 is expected to bring a host of new features and improvements, including enhancements to Galaxy AI, Bixby, connectivity, the Quick Share feature, the home and lock screen, battery and power management, and security.

Some of the key features expected in One UI 8.5 include:

• Enhanced Quick Panel Customization: Users can rearrange individual settings for greater flexibility.
• New Pro Camera Presets: Allowing users to share custom camera settings with others.
• Network Battery Saver: Limits network activity to extend standby time.
• Priority Notifications: Providing more control over which notifications are displayed.
• Revamped Battery Info Page: Offering a clearer view of daily usage statistics and improved charging information.
• Improved Power Saving Mode: Includes customizable limits, while Maximum mode shuts off all non-essential features.
• Storage Share: A system-wide feature that lets users access files on their Samsung phone, tablet, and PC from the My Files app on their phone.
• Smarter Bixby: Improved understanding and processing of natural language.
• Continuous Image Generation: The Photo Assist feature will let you generate multiple AI image variations and then browse your entire creation history afterward.
• Automatic Lock Screen Layout: The lockscreen now automatically adjusts when using wallpapers with people or pets.
• Enhanced Weather Widget: The weather widget receives enhancements, potentially including a pollen index and weather alarm backgrounds.
• Partial Screen Recording: Users will be able to record only a portion of their screen.
• Adaptive Data Saver: Saves mobile data by only downloading social media videos when you're ready to watch.
• Spam Detection: Smarter filters for calls and messages to block unwanted content.
• Notification Summaries: Cleaner, grouped notifications to reduce clutter.

Visual changes may include 3D icons for apps and new clock styles for the lock screen. Samsung might also move the search bar in most first-party apps to the bottom for easier access. Polished animations and transparent effects are also expected.

Device Compatibility

While an official list of compatible devices has not been released by Samsung, a wide range of Galaxy devices are expected to receive the One UI 8.5 update. These include:

• Galaxy S Series: Galaxy S25 series, Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy S22 series, Galaxy S21 FE.
• Galaxy Z Series: Galaxy Z Fold 7, Z Fold 6, Z Fold 5, Z Fold 4, Galaxy Z Flip 7, Z Flip 6, Z Flip 5, Z Flip 4.
• Galaxy A Series: Galaxy A73, Galaxy A56, Galaxy A55, Galaxy A54, Galaxy A53, and more.
• Galaxy M Series: Galaxy M56, Galaxy M55s, Galaxy M55, Galaxy M54, and more.
• Galaxy F Series: Galaxy F55 and other models.
• Galaxy Tab Series: Galaxy Tab S11, Galaxy Tab S10 series, Galaxy Tab S9 series, Galaxy Tab S8 series, and more.

The One UI 8.5 update is poised to deliver a significant upgrade to the Samsung Galaxy experience. With a focus on intelligent features, refined design, and enhanced performance, this update aims to provide users with a more seamless and intuitive mobile experience.