If you’ve been following Samsung updates lately, you’ve probably seen people talking about OneUI 8.5. Right now, it’s not something Samsung has officially explained in detail, so a lot of what’s floating around is based on update patterns, policies, and a few early leaks. Still, it’s useful to look at what One UI 8.5 could mean, which Galaxy phones might get it, and when it may show up.
What is One UI 8.5, anyway?
Samsung usually pushes big One UI updates alongside new Android versions, and then adds “.1” or “.5” builds to refine things later. If One UI 8 is the main jump, One UI 8.5 would likely be the follow-up update that improves stability, adds a few extra features, and polishes the experience across more devices. These “half-step” updates are often where Samsung quietly fixes annoying issues and fine-tunes battery, animations, and system apps.
OneUI 8.5 Update release date (not confirmed)
If Samsung follows its usual schedule, One UI 8.5 probably won’t arrive all at once. Early builds, if they exist, would normally appear first on newer flagships. After that, the update tends to roll out in waves by region and model.
A realistic way to think about it:
- Newest flagships first
- Then foldables
- Then last year’s premium phones
- Then mid-range A-series models
Exact dates are tricky because Samsung changes timelines depending on Android availability, testing feedback, and even carrier approvals.
OneUI 8.5 eligible devices list
Instead of trusting random “final lists,” it’s better to use Samsung’s update policy as a guide. Phones with longer OS support are the safest bet. Based on that, here are the device groups that are most likely to be eligible:
Galaxy S series (most likely)
- Galaxy S24 / S24+ / S24 Ultra
- Galaxy S23 / S23+ / S23 Ultra
Galaxy S22 series
Some regions may still include S21 series, depending on remaining major updates
Galaxy Z foldables series
- Galaxy Z Fold6 / Z Flip6
- Galaxy Z Fold5 / Z Flip5
- Galaxy Z Fold4 / Z Flip4 (very possible)
Galaxy A series (select models)
Mid-range phones do get major updates, but not every A model gets the same support. Likely candidates include:
- Galaxy A55, A54
Some newer A3x models (depending on launch year and promised updates)
Galaxy Tab models (if supported)
Recent flagship tablets (Tab S series) usually follow a similar schedule, but rollout can be slower than phones.
If you want the cleanest check: look up your exact model’s OS upgrade promise (Samsung often mentions “4 generations” or “7 years” for newer flagships).
OneUI 8.5 Update Features (Rumours)
With a “.5” update, I wouldn’t expect a total redesign. More likely:
- Smoother animations and fewer stutters in heavy use
- Small upgrades to Quick Settings, notifications, and multitasking
- Camera app refinements (especially processing and consistency)
- Security/privacy tweaks and better permission controls
- Quality-of-life improvements to Samsung apps like Gallery, Notes, and Device Care
- Maybe a few extra Galaxy AI tools (on supported models), but probably not on every phone
How to prepare before you update
A couple of simple things help avoid headaches:
- Back up photos and important files (Samsung Cloud/Google Drive)
- Keep at least 5–8GB free storage
- Update Galaxy Store apps first
- After installing, give the phone a day or two before judging battery life (it often re-optimizes)
One UI 8.5 looks like it could be a solid “refinement” update, but until Samsung confirms details, treat feature lists and release dates as educated guesses. If you’re using a recent Galaxy flagship or foldable, your chances are pretty good. For mid-range models, it mainly depends on the phone’s launch year and update commitment.
Also read: Realme 12 Pro Plus gets Realme UI 7 Update in EU Region: What’s new?
