Samsung One UI 8.5: Flagship Features Coming to Older Galaxy Models

Samsung has begun the rollout of One UI 8.5, a software update based on Android 16 that brings several artificial intelligence features originally exclusive to the Galaxy S26 series to older Galaxy devices. The update represents a shift in Samsung’s feature deployment strategy, extending high-end generative AI capabilities to a broader range of hardware.

The stable version of One UI 8.5 launched in South Korea on April 30, 2026, with a global rollout commencing in May 2026. According to reporting from Tech Advisor, the update focuses on four primary AI-powered tools: Call Screening, Advanced Audio Eraser, Creative Studio, and Photo Assist.

AI-Powered Communication and Media Tools

Among the most significant additions is Call Screening, a tool designed to mitigate spam and manage unknown callers. The system can automatically answer calls from unrecognized numbers, inquire about the purpose of the call, and provide the user with a real-time transcript and summary of the interaction. Users can then decide whether to intercept the call or allow it to proceed.

For media management, the Advanced Audio Eraser has been upgraded to function system-wide and in real time. Unlike previous iterations that were limited to video editing, this version allows users to separate voices, music, and background noise during live playback or recording to enhance dialogue clarity.

The update also introduces Creative Studio and Photo Assist. Creative Studio enables the generation of AI images and custom stickers from sketches or text prompts. Photo Assist expands generative editing capabilities, allowing users to remove objects, change lighting, or modify backgrounds using text-based instructions.

Intelligence Overhaul for Bixby and System Navigation

One UI 8.5 integrates Perplexity AI to power an upgraded version of Bixby. This integration allows the assistant to understand natural language commands more effectively to navigate deep system menus. For instance, users can tell Bixby my eyes are strained to automatically activate the Eye Comfort Shield, or report that the screen is too bright in the dark to trigger the Extra Dim setting.

System navigation is further streamlined by the introduction of AI Select, which replaces the previous Smart Select feature. AI Select removes the need for users to take a screenshot before prompting the AI for an action; instead, the AI acts immediately upon the selection of an on-screen element.

Device Eligibility and Hardware Constraints

Samsung is delivering One UI 8.5 to a wide array of devices, including the Galaxy S22 series and newer flagship models. The update also extends to the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Z Flip 5, as well as selected mid-range devices within the Galaxy A, M, and F series.

However, the full suite of AI features is not available to all supported models. Reporting from Forbes indicates that users of the Galaxy S23 series may receive a limited version of the AI tools. This disparity is attributed to the hardware architecture of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor used in the S24 series, which provides the neural processing unit (NPU) efficiency required for certain on-device large language models.

Galaxy S23 owners will still receive the Perplexity-powered Bixby upgrade and an updated version of Photo Assist that supports continuous image generation without requiring the user to save each iteration.

Visual and Ecosystem Updates

Beyond AI, One UI 8.5 introduces Ambient Design, a visual overhaul characterized by blur-based interface elements. The update also enhances the Galaxy ecosystem through new connectivity features, such as Storage Share for easier file management across devices and Audio Broadcast, which utilizes Auracast for LE Audio-supported devices.

Security enhancements included in the update feature Theft Protection and a Failed Authentication Lock, which automatically secures the device screen after a specified number of unsuccessful biometric or PIN attempts.