Samsung is reportedly already in the process of developing One UI 8.5 for the Galaxy S26 lineup
Information has surfaced that Samsung, despite the ongoing One UI 7 rollout, is already in the process of creating an updated One UI 8.5 for the Galaxy S26 lineup.
Here's What We Know
Mentions of the new version 8.5 have already been found in Samsung's system code, confirming the absence of version 8.1. Version 8.0 is expected to arrive for most Samsung Galaxy devices by the end of 2025, while One UI 8.5, which will replace the usual ".1" updates, will be launched alongside the release of the Galaxy S26 lineup, presumably in January next year.
Mention of One UI 8.5 in Samsung's system code. Illustration: sammypolice
One UI 8.5 will be the first ".5" update since the release of One UI 2.5 in 2020. The new version is expected to deliver improved overall functionality and enhanced artificial intelligence capabilities.
Samsung is also reportedly looking to synchronise its updates with Google's Android releases. For instance, the Galaxy Fold7 and Flip7, expected in summer 2025, will run on One UI 8.0, based on Android 16. At that time, the Galaxy S26 series is likely to be the first device to debut One UI 8.5, which will emphasise its status as a flagship lineup.
Source: Sammypolice
