Samsung’s One UI 8.5 Leak Hints at Major Feature Overhaul Coming Next Month

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Samsung is gearing up to launch the Galaxy S26 series in January 2026, accompanied by one of the largest mid-cycle software updates in recent years — One UI 8.5. This update promises significant improvements across AI capabilities, user interface, and device integration, highlighting Samsung’s commitment to enhancing the Galaxy experience.
Related: One UI 8

Powerful Galaxy AI Enhancements Debut with One UI 8.5

According to trusted insider Tarun Vats, One UI 8.5 will roll out a wide array of new AI-powered Galaxy features. A highlight is the upgraded Photo Assist, which now supports continuous image generation, allowing users to create multiple AI-powered image variations seamlessly and browse their entire history of creations rather than saving each one individually. This advancement parallels similar innovations like Google’s Gemini markup tools.

Bixby Receives Its Most Significant Update in Years

  • Better understanding of natural, conversational language
  • Smarter navigation to locate settings and features
  • Access to conversation history directly within the Bixby app
  • Always-available assistance across various apps

Seamless File Access with Storage Share

One UI 8.5 introduces Storage Share, enabling users to access files from their Samsung phone, tablet, or PC via the My Files app. This effectively creates a unified cloud storage ecosystem tailored for Galaxy devices. Additionally, new smart-device shortcuts will allow users to place home-screen icons that instantly mirror their phone’s display to a TV, enhancing versatility.

Battery Settings Revamped with Improved Power-Saving Tools

The update also brings a redesigned battery settings page along with enhanced power-saving features to help users maximize their Galaxy device’s endurance.

Beyond these marquee features, Samsung is improving accessibility options, adding more customization to the Quick Panel, enabling partial screen recording, and refining apps including Weather, Health, Security & Privacy, and Quick Share.

The beta for One UI 8.5 is expected to begin rolling out on December 8. This update marks Samsung’s most ambitious software release since Android 16 and could offer a preview of what lies ahead with Android 17 next year.

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