One UI 8.5: Samsung might still be working on One UI 8.0, but everyone is already excited about its next version, One UI 8.5, with a return to Samsung’s previous naming convention, skipping incremental minor updates such as 8.1. This future software update is based on Android 16. The previous .5 variant was One UI 2.5 in 2020. Today, a number of leaks and forum confirmations point towards One UI 8.5 being in the works and a possible early 2026 release.
Read More: OnePlus 13R vs Poco F6: Camera Value Comparison
Read More: Honor Magic 7 Pro vs Google Pixel 9: Selfie Supremacy
One UI 8.5: Release Date and Rollout Schedule
Though Samsung has not announced anything officially yet, One UI 8.5 is likely to arrive with the Galaxy S26 series during Q1 2026. Following the flagships’ release, the update will roll out to other premium models such as the Galaxy S25 and S24 series, Galaxy Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7, and a few premium tablets. Mid-range and budget Galaxy phones will have to wait until later in the year in a phased rollout.
Expected One UI 8.5 Features and Improvements
Samsung has not yet outlined One UI 8.5 features, but indications point to it possibly bringing new Galaxy AI features, enhanced system stability, and optimized software performance. Since One UI 8.0 is a comparatively small update, expectations should be managed. Nonetheless, minor UI adjustments and improvements to native Samsung apps and widgets might still enhance the overall experience.
Eligible Samsung Galaxy Phones for One UI 8.5
The majority of phones that are eligible for the One UI 8.0 update will also get One UI 8.5. These include flagship devices launched after 2022 and a lot of popular A-series and M-series phones. Tablets such as the Galaxy Tab S10 and Tab S9 Ultra are also eligible. Phones like Galaxy S22 series, the Z Fold 4, and Tab S8 Ultra are all likely to be supported.
Predicted Device List Throughout Series
The Galaxy S25, S24, S23, and S22 series, as well as their Fan Edition editions, are expected to receive the update. Likewise, the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Flip 7, Fold 6, and Flip 6 are included in the roadmap. A-series devices from the A73 to A14, and M-series devices such as M56, M54, and M34, are also likely to receive the new firmware.
Samsung’s Present Priority: One UI 8.0 Finalization
Presently, Samsung is focused on releasing One UI 8.0, particularly following the delays and cancellation of One UI 7.1 and 7.1.1. The users of Galaxy S25 already have the beta of One UI 8.0. Currently, One UI 8.5 remains under wraps, but the work is evidently in progress. Further updates shall follow as the software matures and testing continues.
Verdict: One UI 8.5 May Be a Stable, Polished Upgrade
While not a groundbreaking update, One UI 8.5 may introduce the fine-tuning Samsung users look for. Enhanced AI usage, refined animations, and improved optimization between devices can make it a stable, reliable version of Android 16 for Galaxy fans.