Samsung has officially commenced the rollout of its One UI 8.5 update, based on Android 16, to the Galaxy S25 series. The update, which began its staggered release on May 6th, brings a suite of enhanced 'Galaxy AI' features, previously exclusive to the newer Galaxy S26 lineup. This significant software push follows an extended period of beta testing, reportedly lasting around five to six months.
The stable One UI 8.5 update began rolling out on May 6th, initially in South Korea, with other regions expected to follow. The Galaxy S25 series – including the S25, S25+, S25 Edge, and S25 Ultra – is the first to receive the finalized version, marking the end of numerous beta iterations.
Feature Rollout and Device Eligibility
The One UI 8.5 update is designed to bring key advancements to older flagship devices, bridging the gap with the latest Samsung offerings. Among the features highlighted are:
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Enhanced AI Capabilities: The update includes new Galaxy AI features, such as real-time improved Audio Eraser and a feature called Call Screening. Some reports suggest potential limitations or exclusivity of certain AI functions, like a real-time audio eraser, to the S25 series.
Improved Communication and Creativity: The focus of One UI 8.5 is on refining user interaction, particularly in communication and creative endeavors.
Sharing Enhancements: Users can expect upgraded sharing experiences, including the ability to share hotspot connections within a Samsung account family group or custom groups. Wallpaper customization now allows for direct weather effect integration.
Initial Rollout Wave
Samsung is deploying the update in phases. The first wave of devices receiving One UI 8.5 includes:
Galaxy S Series: Galaxy S25 series (S25, S25+, S25 Edge, S25 Ultra, S25 FE), Galaxy S24 series (S24, S24+, S24 Ultra, S24 FE).
Galaxy Z Series: Galaxy Z Fold 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7, Galaxy Z Fold 6, Galaxy Z Flip 6. Notably, some sources also mention the Galaxy Z TriFold, Z Fold 5, and Z Flip 5 as potentially receiving the update in subsequent phases or in specific regions.
Galaxy Tab Series: Galaxy Tab S11 series, Galaxy Tab S10 series.
Extended Beta and Regional Variations
The extensive beta testing phase for One UI 8.5 has drawn commentary regarding its length. One article notes that Samsung "rushed One UI 8 out and taking its time with One UI 8.5 more or less evens out across the two," implying a lengthy development cycle for the latter. The update’s availability and feature set may differ across regions, with Europe and France anticipating the update around a week after the initial rollout. Some regional variations, like in Germany, list different models for their A-series lineup in relation to One UI updates.
Future Rollouts
While the S25 and S24 series are prioritized, Samsung has indicated that the update will gradually extend to other eligible devices, including older flagships like the Galaxy S23 series and certain Galaxy A devices, though these are expected to receive it later. Devices such as the Galaxy Z TriFold, Z Flip 7 FE, and Galaxy Tab S10 FE are not explicitly mentioned in initial announcements, suggesting a delayed or potentially excluded inclusion. The Galaxy S26 series launched with One UI 8.5 pre-installed.
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