Samsung Rolls Out One UI 8.5 with Galaxy AI to Older Flagships

Key facts

• One UI 8.5 began rolling out in South Korea on May 6.
• The update is available for Galaxy S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, S25 FE, Fold7, and Flip7 models.
• One UI 8.5 is based on Android 16.
• New features include Photo Assist, a customised Quick Access Bar, and Privacy Alerts.
• The update was first released with the Galaxy S26 series.
• Rollout will expand to Europe, Hong Kong, India, Latin America, North America, Southeast Asia, and Taiwan.

New Software Arrives for Galaxy Users

Samsung has commenced the global rollout of its latest One UI 8.5 software update, bringing a suite of advanced artificial intelligence features and a refreshed user interface to a range of its flagship devices. The update, built upon the foundation of Android 16, began its phased distribution in South Korea on May 6. This significant firmware release promises to enhance the user experience with enhanced customization options, improved security, and a host of AI-powered tools. Owners of select Galaxy S25 series smartphones and foldable devices are now eligible to receive the new software. The rollout signifies Samsung's commitment to extending its latest technological advancements beyond its newest hardware, offering existing customers access to cutting-edge mobile capabilities. The company anticipates a swift expansion of the update to users worldwide.

Flagship Devices Receive AI Enhancements

The One UI 8.5 update is now available for the Galaxy S25, S25+, S25 Ultra, and S25 FE smartphones. Additionally, Samsung's latest foldable devices, the Fold7 and Flip7, are also receiving the new software. In South Korea, the update for the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra is being distributed under build number CZDP. The Galaxy S25 FE is receiving the update with a firmware version ending in BZDP. These specific build numbers ensure the integrity and stability of the initial deployment. Users in other regions can expect the update to arrive within days or weeks, following Samsung's established pattern for operating system rollouts. This staggered approach allows the company to monitor performance and address any potential issues before a wider release.

Key Features and AI Innovations

One UI 8.5 introduces a range of compelling new features designed to streamline daily tasks and enhance creative possibilities. Among the highlights is Photo Assist, a powerful tool for sophisticated photo editing directly on the device. Users will also benefit from a redesigned Quick Access Bar, offering more personalised shortcuts to frequently used applications and settings. Privacy and security have been bolstered with the inclusion of Privacy Alerts, which notify users of applications actively accessing their location data. The update also brings 'Now Nudge' suggestions, providing real-time, context-aware prompts to help users stay organised and productive. These advancements build upon the foundation laid by the Galaxy S26 series, which was the first to feature One UI 8.5. While most AI features are expected to be available across the Galaxy S25 series, some functionalities may be exclusive to newer models or not filter down to older devices.

Global Expansion and Customization

Following its initial release in South Korea, Samsung plans to make One UI 8.5 available across a broad geographical spectrum. Eligible Galaxy devices in Europe, Hong Kong, India, Latin America, North America, Southeast Asia, and Taiwan are slated to receive the update in the coming weeks. Further personalization is enabled through the Good Lock application, specifically via the Quick Star module, allowing users to extensively customize interface elements and toggles. This level of user control is a hallmark of Samsung's One UI experience. Owners of the Galaxy S25 Ultra will be particularly pleased to find the horizontal lock feature, previously introduced on the Galaxy S26 Ultra, now integrated into their devices. This attention to detail underscores Samsung's strategy of bringing premium features to a wider audience.

A Phased Rollout After Extensive Testing

The official release of One UI 8.5 follows an extensive beta testing period that spanned over four months. This prolonged testing phase allowed Samsung to refine the software, gather user feedback, and ensure a stable and robust final product. The phased rollout strategy is crucial for managing the deployment across diverse global markets and device configurations. It allows Samsung's engineering teams to closely monitor the update's performance and address any emergent issues efficiently. This approach ensures that the transition to One UI 8.5 is as seamless as possible for the millions of Samsung device owners worldwide, providing them with the latest innovations without compromising device stability.

The bottom line

• Samsung's One UI 8.5 update, featuring advanced Galaxy AI, is now rolling out to select older flagship devices.
• The update is available for Galaxy S25 series smartphones and Fold7/Flip7 foldables, starting in South Korea.
• Key new features include AI-powered photo editing, enhanced privacy alerts, and a customizable Quick Access Bar.
• One UI 8.5 is based on Android 16 and brings features previously exclusive to the newer Galaxy S26 series.
• The rollout will expand globally to regions including Europe, North America, and Asia within weeks.
• Samsung's phased deployment follows a four-month beta testing period to ensure software stability.