One UI 8.5 rolls out with on‑device AI enhancements that auto‑enhance photos, suggest smart home actions, and optimize battery health, all built into the upcoming Galaxy S26 launch. The update also refines the visual design and expands eligibility to older Galaxy models, giving you a faster, more personalized Android experience.
AI‑Powered Photo Editing and Smart Home
Samsung’s new AI engine suggests filters, balances lighting, and removes unwanted objects with a single tap. Bixby’s hub now offers contextual suggestions, letting you control compatible devices without digging through menus.
Intelligent Battery Management
The “Battery Health” dashboard visualises charge cycles, predicts optimal charging windows, and activates “Power Saver +” mode that throttles background activity based on your usage patterns. Early testers say the tools feel like a natural extension of the OS rather than a gimmick, and it’s clear the battery impact is minimal.
Design Refresh and Wider Device Support
Rounded corners are a touch more pronounced, and the notification shade now includes quick‑reply chips that adapt to conversation context. Beyond the flagship S26 line, many Galaxy S25 and Note 20‑series phones will receive the upgrade, extending AI features to a broader audience.
Developer Benefits with Smart Suggest
Samsung introduces a “Smart Suggest” framework that lets third‑party apps tap into on‑device ML models for context‑aware actions without shipping large model files. This lightweight API reduces battery impact and lowers the barrier for smaller developers to add AI features, so you can expect richer apps sooner.
Rollout Timeline
Beta 4 is already reaching Galaxy S25 devices in several regions, and the stable build is slated to ship with the Galaxy S26 launch. Samsung hasn’t disclosed a precise global schedule, but the update follows the company’s typical flagship release cadence.
Bottom Line
One UI 8.5 isn’t just a cosmetic refresh; it embeds AI into everyday tasks, from snapping photos to managing power. If the stable release lives up to the beta’s promise, you’ll enjoy a smarter experience without sacrificing Samsung’s signature customization options.
