Samsung is updating its “older” smartphones to One UI 8.5

Samsung is Updating Older Phones to One UI 8.5: Full Device List and Features

Samsung is preparing a major update to its proprietary interface, promising a noticeable improvement in the user experience on previous-generation devices. The One UI 8.5 update, based on Android 16, focuses on bringing advanced AI-powered features to devices many users already consider “last year’s models.”

What to expect from the new update:

• A smarter Bixby with support for large language models.
• Personalized morning reports with Now Brief.
• Advanced photo tools with non-destructive editing in Photo Assist.
• Automatic protection of sensitive data in screenshots.
• An optimized interface with faster animations.

Smarter Bixby and Galaxy AI: a new level of interaction

The updated Bixby voice assistant in One UI 8.5 is no longer just a command tool. It evolves into a full-fledged intelligent hub. With integration of modern language models, the assistant now understands natural speech far more effectively, handling complex queries without requiring rigid phrasing.

The key upgrade is on-screen context awareness. If you open a work conversation, Bixby can automatically detect an address or phone number and suggest actions like navigation or saving a contact. This makes Samsung’s AI genuinely useful in everyday scenarios, especially on older flagship devices where processing power is now enhanced by flexible cloud-based algorithms.

Now Brief morning reports: a personalized start to your day with Android 16

The Now Brief feature in One UI 8.5 changes how users interact with their phones after waking up. Instead of flooding you with notifications, the system delivers a clean and structured morning summary. As soon as you pick up your phone, it gathers key information such as the weather forecast, upcoming calendar events, and a personalized news feed based on your activity.

This update creates a more unified user experience. Instead of switching between multiple apps, everything important appears on a single screen. This level of automation saves time and turns your smartphone into a proactive assistant that adapts to your daily routine.

Advanced photo tools and Photo Assist: professional editing in your pocket

The new Photo Assist features in One UI 8.5 turn the standard Gallery into a powerful creative tool. The main upgrade is non-destructive editing, meaning the system keeps a full history of every change made to an image. You can remove unwanted objects using AI and still roll back to any previous edit without losing quality.

This flexibility makes mobile photography far more practical for real-time editing. Generative editing tools also run faster on older devices, allowing users with Galaxy S23 or Z Fold 5 to achieve results that previously required desktop software.

Screenshot data protection: intelligent privacy

The Privacy Protection feature automatically scans screen content when you take a screenshot. If it detects sensitive information such as credit card numbers, passport details, or personal data, it can suggest or automatically apply a blur effect. This allows you to safely share screenshots without risking exposure of private information.

Visual simplicity and speed: how One UI 8.5 improves performance

Another key part of the update is a deeper interface redesign. Samsung focused on a cleaner look, simplifying menus and making animations smoother with new dynamic blur algorithms. Even on older devices, Android 16 feels like a performance upgrade, with faster app launches and near-instant transitions.

Release timeline and supported devices

The stable version of One UI 8.5 officially launched in March 2026 alongside the Galaxy S26 series. The main wave of updates for global markets is expected to roll out in May 2026. Owners of older models, such as the Galaxy S22, can also expect the update, helping their devices stay relevant for at least another one to two years.

List of supported models:

• Galaxy S series flagships: S25, S24, and S23 lines (including FE), as well as S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra.
• Foldable Galaxy Z devices: Z Fold 7/6/5/4 and Z Flip 7/6/5/4.
• Galaxy A series: A56, A55, A54, as well as A36/35/34/33 and A26/25/24.
• Galaxy Tab tablets: Tab S11, S10, S9, and S8, along with budget Tab A11 and Tab A9.
• Additional lines: Galaxy M and F series (56, 55, 54, 36, 34), plus rugged XCover 7 and 6 Pro.

One UI 8.5 beta limitations

The One UI 8.5 beta program is currently limited by region. Full access to Android 16 testing is mostly available in India and South Korea. For most other markets, registration through Samsung Members remains restricted. This allows Samsung to refine stability before the global rollout, ensuring users receive a more polished final release.

Technical notes

• Beta testing: The beta program is already open for S25, S24, and A55 models in select regions (South Korea, India).
• Regional delays: The listed dates are approximate for global markets. Actual rollout timing may vary by region and carrier.
• Final update: For Galaxy S22 and Galaxy A53 series, this will likely be the last major Android version upgrade.

Більше новин в телеграмі

Адмін Гік

Copywriter, SEO specialist and web developer at UITech

I am a copywriter, SEO specialist, and web developer with professional experience since 2009. I build fast, user-friendly websites and focus on long-term search visibility, technical optimization, and clean structure. I work across multiple operating systems and tools, combining content creation, usability, and technical expertise.

I’m passionate about gadgets and closely follow technology trends. I write in-depth device reviews, industry news, and analytical articles. I test products in real-life scenarios, photograph them, and turn hands-on experience into practical, reliable content.
At UITech.com.ua, I create technology-focused materials that help readers choose the right devices — from smartphones and laptops to software and creative tools.

More about the author