One UI 8.5: a major update for the Samsung ecosystem

 

While One UI 8 already represents a successful step forward in the evolution of the Samsung interface, One UI 8.5 introduces changes of unusual magnitude for an intermediate update. The new features cover everything from design and animations to system functionality and creative tools, to the point that this version feels more like a transition to a future generation of the interface than a simple corrective update.

Visual enhancements and increased customization

One of the most noticeable changes concerns the quick settings panel. It is now fully customizable: each button can be resized and repositioned freely. This allows you to enlarge certain controls, such as Bluetooth, reduce the size of sliders, or increase the space dedicated to the media player. This approach greatly enhances the customization of the interface.

In addition, Samsung has refined many graphic elements. The PIN unlock screen has a slight depth effect that reveals the wallpaper, adding a touch of modernity. Pill-shaped context menus are becoming widespread throughout the system, particularly in the app drawer and native apps, gradually replacing the traditional navigation bar.

The lock screen also features new clock styles, offering more aesthetic choices, although these options remain relatively classic compared to some competing interfaces.

Camera and gallery improvements

The Gallery app has undergone significant changes geared toward everyday use. A new option allows you to create a private album directly in the gallery, without going through the Secure Folder. In addition, the integration of AI tools, such as AI Eraser, is enhanced by a complete history of changes, allowing you to go back and make successive adjustments without losing any information.

The gallery interface also adopts pill-shaped overlays. When zooming in on an image, the menus automatically disappear to make room for the content, then reappear when touched, improving readability.

On the Camera side, categories are now better organized, making it easier to navigate between modes. Pro mode features a streamlined preview button that hides technical settings (ISO, shutter speed, aperture) so you can focus solely on framing. This option is particularly aimed at content creators.

Advanced features are also making an appearance, such as the use of Audio Eraser in Log videos and the addition of LUTs for color grading, although the options are still limited at this stage. Some popular features, such as Single Take and Double View, are missing from this first version, probably due to its beta status.

System settings and Samsung Internet

The Samsung Internet browser has been updated with several new tab display modes, including List, Tab, and Grid views, offering greater flexibility.

The Settings app has a cleaner layout. Secondary category descriptions have been removed, resulting in a clearer interface. The Battery and Device Maintenance sections have also been visually redesigned, improving readability and access to essential information.

Samsung DeX mode revamp

One UI 8.5 marks a strong comeback for DeX mode. The interface has been modernized and made more productive with new keyboard shortcuts, including the ability to switch between windows with key combinations. The addition of multiple virtual desktops, similar to the PC experience, is a major step forward. Screen recording is now supported directly in the DeX environment.

Smart features and improved fluidity

The previously introduced Now Brief feature has been updated with new options, including an audio summary that can be enabled in the settings and the integration of AI image creation. Although the icon design remains unchanged, the system animations have been optimized, providing a smoother feel, especially when navigating between the home screen and the app drawer.

New practical features

Notable additions include audio streaming via Auracast over Bluetooth LE, allowing you to share or receive audio streams with compatible devices, as well as the long-awaited partial screen recording. Another important new feature is Storage Share, which makes it easy to share storage between nearby Samsung devices.

Availability and outlook

At this stage, Samsung has not released an official rollout schedule. Beta versions of One UI 8.5 are currently available in India on the Galaxy S25 range, while other devices are expected to be supported at a later date.

Conclusion

One UI 8.5 stands out for the breadth and diversity of its improvements. With a visual overhaul, enhanced creative tools, a revamped DeX, and performance optimizations, this mid-cycle update redefines the standards of the Samsung software experience and foreshadows the direction of future versions of the interface.