One UI 8.5 Leak Shows Big Design Changes in Samsung Apps

Samsung is preparing a major update. A new leak of One UI 8.5 has revealed key design changes. The update is expected to arrive with the Galaxy S26 in early 2026. A video leak showed new looks for stock apps like Phone, Settings, Galaxy Themes, Studio, and Device Care.

Reports confirm that One UI 8.5 firmware also has signs of One UI 9.0. This shows Samsung is already testing the next big step. For now, users get a clear look at the new features and layout changes coming soon.

One UI 8.5 Brings New App Designs

The leak shows several redesigned apps. The Phone app has a new pill-style dock at the bottom. The dialer, call log, and contacts are easier to reach. A new Direct Voicemail feature shows live transcription of messages, much like iOS 18’s Live Voicemail. The call button also has a shadow effect for a modern look.

The Settings app also changes. The Software Update page now highlights the current One UI version at the top. The option to check updates is at the bottom. This is a simpler flow than before.

The Galaxy Themes app now opens with a splash screen. It shows a large brush and a new layout. The app has two main sections and four tabs for themes, wallpapers, backgrounds, and AODs.

Samsung’s Studio app also gets a new design. Navigation tabs are more compact, giving more space to content. A new “Stories” tab is added, joining Pictures, Albums, and Search. This could make video editing more social and creative.

Device Care and Home Screen Updates

The Device Care section has a big redesign. Storage, memory, and battery bars are wider. They now display numbers with percentages. The emoji used in earlier versions has been replaced with plain text. This makes the status display more professional and clear.

The Home Screen itself does not change much. Icons, widgets, folders, and the app drawer remain the same. But the app launcher version has jumped from 17.0.x to 17.5.x. That suggests under-the-hood changes.

Sources close to Samsung suggest that One UI 8.5 will roll out before One UI 9.0 testing begins. The leak confirms Samsung is focused on refining its apps and making navigation faster.

Why This Update Matters

One UI 8.5 shows Samsung’s push for cleaner design. The updates focus on usability. Key apps are now easier to use with one hand. Samsung also wants to bring Galaxy apps closer to modern Android 16 features. This will help Galaxy phones stay in line with global design trends.

The timing also matters. Galaxy S26 will likely launch with One UI 8.5. This means millions of Samsung users will see these changes as standard. For users already on One UI 8, the changes will feel like a strong upgrade.

One UI 8.5 is not just about looks. It is about making Galaxy apps simpler, faster, and ready for the next step.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is One UI 8.5?

One UI 8.5 is Samsung’s next update for Galaxy phones. It brings design changes to stock apps and adds new features.

Q2: When will One UI 8.5 be released?

It is expected to debut with the Galaxy S26 in early 2026. Some Galaxy phones may get it earlier via updates.

Q3: What new features does One UI 8.5 bring?

It adds Direct Voicemail, redesigned Phone app layout, new Galaxy Themes UI, a compact Studio editor, and a new Device Care look.

Q4: How is One UI 8.5 different from One UI 8?

It has cleaner layouts, faster access to updates, and improved usability. The focus is on easier navigation and better visuals.

Q5: Will older Galaxy phones get One UI 8.5?

Yes, but availability depends on model and region. Flagship devices usually get the update first.