Samsung One UI 8.5 Update: Galaxy S26 Features Revealed
Samsung is set to launch its new One UI 8.5 update early next year alongside its flagship Galaxy S26 series. Leaks regarding this update have already surfaced, generating significant buzz in the tech industry. One UI 8.5 is expected to be based on Android 16 and is considered a major step toward making Samsung’s user interface more modern, visually appealing, and privacy-focused.
Major Changes in the Settings Menu
Samsung has completely redesigned the Settings menu in One UI 8.5, making it more compact. The company has removed subtitles, giving the interface a cleaner and more minimalist look.
A key change is that the search bar will now be positioned at the bottom, making it easier for users to access. This is particularly useful for large-screen devices, as users won’t have to stretch their hands to the top of the screen repeatedly.
Additionally, the Settings menu and various screens will now feature gradient overflow effects on the top and bottom edges, providing smoother transitions and a more premium visual appearance. Drop shadows have also been added to all containers and the search bar, giving the interface a layered and modern feel.
iOS 26-Inspired Floating Back Button
Another major design change in One UI 8.5 involves the back button. When users navigate into sub-settings menus, the back button will float above the content, accompanied by a drop shadow effect.
This design closely resembles Apple’s iOS 26, although Samsung has customized it to maintain its own identity. Tech experts believe this change will make the user experience more intuitive and interactive.
Redesigned Search Page Layout
The search page in One UI 8.5 will be completely revamped. It will feature a three-column grid layout, allowing users to view different categories easily within the search results. This will make content more organized and finding any setting or feature much simpler.
This design improvement aligns with Samsung’s ongoing strategy of making its interface increasingly user-friendly with every update.
New Features in Quick Settings
Samsung’s Quick Settings panel has always been popular with users, but One UI 8.5 will make it even more flexible.
Users will now have the option to resize the icon tiles, meaning they can enlarge or shrink quick toggles according to their preferences. This feature will be particularly useful for those who frequently use only one or two settings and want them to appear more prominent.
New Privacy Display Feature
Privacy is a major concern today, and Samsung is addressing this with a potential “Private Display” or “Privacy Display” option in One UI 8.5.
This feature will limit the screen’s visibility from side angles, preventing people around you in public or crowded spaces from easily seeing what’s on your phone. Essentially, it acts as a screen protection function, helping users maintain their privacy.
New Glimpse of Galaxy AI Features
One UI 8.5 will not only bring interface changes but also introduce new Galaxy AI features. Samsung continues to advance its AI technology, and it is expected that the Galaxy S26 series will include some exclusive AI tools.
These features may include smart text generation, advanced photo editing, real-time translation, and more personalized suggestions. This will further strengthen Samsung’s AI ecosystem to compete with Google and Apple.
One UI 8.5 Based on Android 16
The new system package will be based on Android 16, incorporating all the latest features from Google’s Android build. Samsung will enhance it further through its layered interface and exclusive features.
The company’s strategy ensures that each version of One UI not only delivers the Android experience but also adds a new vision and smart tools. In line with this, One UI 8.5 is being integrated with Android 16.
Preparing for One UI 9.0
Leaks also indicate that Samsung is already preparing One UI 9.0, which will be based on Android 17 and could be available by the end of 2026. This suggests that One UI 8.5 is just the next step, with the company already working on future major updates.
Launch in January 2026
The most important detail is that the One UI 8.5 update will officially launch with Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S26 series. Samsung typically unveils its S-series in January, and this trend is expected to continue. Users will experience One UI 8.5 on the Galaxy S26 from day one. The update will then gradually roll out to older models such as the Galaxy S25, S24, and certain Fold-series devices.
Conclusion
Samsung’s One UI 8.5 update is set to elevate the user experience to a new level. Features like a compact and clean Settings menu, conveniently located search bar, customizable Quick Settings, and Privacy Display will enhance usability. Meanwhile, advanced Galaxy AI features will make this update not just a visual upgrade but a key part of a smarter smartphone experience.
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