Samsung One UI 8.5 Beta Details Leak Ahead of Galaxy S26 Debut

Samsung’s next major software update is on the horizon. One UI 8.5 is confirmed as the successor to the current One UI 8.0. It is scheduled for an official release next year alongside the new Galaxy S26 series.

The company is skipping versions 8.1 and 8.1.1 entirely. This move signifies a substantial upgrade is coming. According to information from SamMobile, an early beta build is already running on current flagship devices.

Early Build Reveals Key Changes and Missing Features

An early test version was installed on a Galaxy S24 Ultra. Screenshots confirm the interface is active. The build appears nearly identical to leaks from upcoming Galaxy S25 Ultra units.

This suggests a consistent experience across generations. Notably, some camera modes are absent in these early builds. Both Dual Recording and Single Take features are missing from the camera app.

Samsung may be planning to merge or overhaul these modes. This is not confirmed, however. The changes are present on test builds for the Galaxy Z Fold 7 as well.

Galaxy AI Features Reserved for Later Rollout

The new Galaxy AI capabilities expected with the S26 are not included yet. This is a deliberate choice by Samsung. The company typically ports major new AI features to older models after a new flagship launch.

These AI tools will likely arrive later in the beta program. They may even be released as a separate update after the S26 announcement. This strategy ensures the latest hardware gets the first exposure to new software.

For current users, the core One UI 8.5 update will focus on system refinements. The beta program for select existing models is expected soon. Samsung has not yet announced which devices will be included in the initial beta phase.

The upcoming One UI 8.5 update represents Samsung’s next step in mobile software. Its development is already well underway on current hardware. Users can anticipate a more polished interface, though the full suite of new AI-powered tools will arrive later.

A quick knowledge drop for you

When will One UI 8.5 be released?

The official stable release is planned for 2025. It will launch alongside the Samsung Galaxy S26 series. A public beta for older devices may begin before that.

Which phones will get the One UI 8.5 beta?

Samsung has not confirmed the list yet. Based on precedent, recent flagships like the Galaxy S24 and Z Fold 6 series are likely candidates. The beta is already being tested on the S24 Ultra.

What features are missing in the early build?

Early test builds lack the Dual Recording and Single Take camera modes. The new Galaxy AI features announced for the S26 are also not present. These are expected to be added later.

Will Galaxy AI come to older phones?

Yes. Samsung historically brings new AI features to older flagship models. The rollout will happen toward the end of the One UI 8.5 beta or shortly after the S26 launch.

Why is Samsung skipping One UI 8.1?

Samsung often skips minor version numbers for larger updates. Moving from One UI 8.0 directly to 8.5 signals a more significant upgrade. It aligns the version with a major new hardware launch cycle.