Today, Samsung started the official rollout of the new OneUI 8.5 to global markets, bringing its latest Android 16-based software package to more Galaxy phones outside Korea.
After weeks of beta testing and the initial launch of a stable version in Korea earlier this month, the update is now available to Samsung customers across Europe, Asia, North America, and other Key markets.
For Samsung fans, this new update is one of the most important software releases from Samsung this year, and it meets most of the expectations. This time, it combines a new visual redesign with deeper Galaxy AI integration and a smoother system performance.
Still on Android 16, just like the OneUI 8 last year, this new upgrade is a big leap from its predecessor when it comes to balanced performance. And the OneUI 8.5 focuses more on AI and foldable optimisation, better animations and a more glassy, futuristic feel.
What The OneUI 8.5 Brings
The new OneUI 8.5 is more of a refinement-focused update than a complete overhaul of the previous version, but still, there are several noticeable additions. Some of the biggest upgrades include:
- A new “Liquid Glass” visual style with smoother animations and better transitions.
- Improved Galaxy AI tools optimised for writing, photo editing and communication. This new update goes beyond the AI introduction phase that the OneUI 8 brought.
- Smarter battery optimising and adaptive battery saving, although this might not be noticeable to the average Samsung user getting eligible for the update.
- Better multitasking for foldable models and tabs. As foldables become more mainstream, the new OneUI 8.5 comes with special changes to give Samsung foldables a better experience.
- More lock-screen customisation features.
- Audio broadcast support for supported Galaxy Buds.
- Improved cross-device file transfer and access through Quick Share and Samsung Files.
For Samsung phones with higher refresh rates around 120Hz, the OneUI 8.5 also improves system fluidity, making navigation feel noticeably smooth.
Launch Timeline
Not all Galaxy phones are getting this update. Samsung first released the stable OneUI 8.5 version in the home market, Korea on May 6th, mainly on:
- Galaxy S25 series
- Galaxy S24 series
- Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7
- Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6
- Galaxy Tab S11 and Tab S10 series
Now on the 11th of May, Samsung has expanded the launch across key global markets. It is good to know that this rollout is in phases, meaning immediate availability will depend on region, carrier and device model. Most eligible ‘S’ flagships will receive the update before the end of May, while every other series including the A series will get the update before mid-June.
Samsung Phones Getting the OneUI 8.5
Samsung prioritises its flagship phones first, but several other midrange models are getting the update too.
For the Galaxy S series, anything from the Galaxy S23 FE (fan edition) gets the update. Which means the following devices are getting the update:
- Galaxy S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, S25 Edge, S25 FE
- Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra, S24 FE
- Galaxy S23 series
- Galaxy S23 FE
Foldables:
- Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7
- Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6
- Galaxy Z Fold5 and Z Flip5
Samsung is also extending the upgrade to the A series, but it will be limited to 3-year-old models, especially those covered under the new longer software support policy. They include:
- Galaxy A56
- Galaxy A55
- Galaxy A54
- Galaxy A36
- Galaxy A35
- Galaxy A34
- Some Galaxy A2x and A0x models
Tablets:
- Galaxy Tab S11 series
- Galaxy Tab S10 series
Samsung also stated that some AI functionalities might not be available to some A series phones, while all premium Galaxy S, Z and Tab models will receive the full AI suite.
If your Galaxy device is eligible for this upgrade, you can check for it by simply:
- Opening Settings
- Tapping Software Update
- Selecting Download and Install
If you don’t find it, don’t panic. Some users may receive the update before others depending on region and carrier approval. Ultimately, every eligible customer will get the OneUI 8.5 before the end of June.
