Samsung’s One UI 8.5 Update Reveals Key Tweaks for Galaxy Z Fold 7

Samsung is developing the next major software update for its devices. An early build of One UI 8.5 has been spotted on the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7. This gives us a first look at the new software. The information comes from a hands-on exploration of the firmware.

The update brings several user interface refinements. It also includes at least two features specifically designed for the foldable form factor. This early build shows Samsung’s continued focus on tailoring the software experience for different device types.

Foldable-Specific Enhancements Take Center Stage

The One UI 8.5 build on the Z Fold 7 introduces practical changes. In the Phone app, the keypad now opens as a pop-up from the call log. This prevents a full-screen switch and improves workflow. It is a small but meaningful quality-of-life improvement.

Another tweak involves the notification shade. Its behavior is now context-aware. When you swipe down from the top, the shade aligns to your finger’s starting position. This can be left, center, or right. According to Sammobile, this makes one-handed use more intuitive on the large cover screen.

Consistent Core Experience Across Galaxy Devices

Many features appear consistent with One UI 8.5 on the Galaxy S25 Ultra. The core experience remains unified across Samsung’s flagship lineup. Users get a fully customizable quick panel for toggles. The navigation bar is also redesigned in key apps like Gallery and Phone.

The search bar in apps like Settings has moved to the bottom. This change greatly improves one-handed usability. The software update screen itself has been refreshed. It now prominently displays the One UI version number in large, bold lettering for clarity.

As with any early build, this version is not final. Some features are still missing and bugs are present. The camera app, for instance, reportedly crashes when attempting to use Flex mode. These issues are expected to be resolved in later builds before the official public release.

The rollout of One UI 8.5 will mark another step in refining the Samsung software experience. These early Galaxy Z Fold 7 tweaks show a dedicated approach to foldable innovation. The final build promises further polish and functionality for users.

Dropping this nugget your way

Q1: When will One UI 8.5 be released?

No official release date has been announced. It is currently in early development. The update will likely launch after the new Galaxy devices are official.

Q2: What are the main new features in One UI 8.5?

Key features include a customizable quick panel and a context-aware notification shade. The update also brings redesigned app navigation bars for easier use.

Q3: Will my current Galaxy phone get One UI 8.5?

It will likely come to recent flagship models and some mid-range phones. Samsung has not yet confirmed the official eligibility list for the update.

Q4: How does it improve the foldable experience?

It adds foldable-specific tweaks like a pop-up dialer. The notification shade behavior is also optimized for the cover screen’s dimensions.

Q5: Why is the search bar at the bottom now?

Placing the search bar at the bottom improves one-handed usability. This is especially helpful on larger smartphones and foldable devices.