One UI 8.5 is gearing up to be the next update following version 8.0. The interface is undergoing a complete redesign, as evidenced by a test version that has appeared on the Galaxy S25 Ultra. While you shouldn’t expect a significant overhaul of the operating system based on Android 16, Samsung aims to implement a subtle facelift.
For reference, One UI 8.5 has also been spotted on the Galaxy S24+, in addition to the Galaxy S25 Ultra. The manufacturer’s overlay based on Android 16 has recently been made available, following several months of waiting and various beta phases. However, the launch of One UI 8.0 is significantly less chaotic than that of One UI 7.0, which took several months and faced delays due to a “serious bug.” One UI 8.5 serves as an intermediate version, refining the interface with some welcome changes. Naturally, all these adjustments could evolve as One UI 8.5 is still in the testing phase.
One UI 8.5 offers a new interface, here are images of what awaits you
Samsung still has time to explore various methods before finalizing the design. It’s possible that the South Korean company, which is currently preparing the Galaxy S26, may modify, add, or remove elements based on user feedback. Simply put, Samsung understands that besides functionality, users are also looking for an interface that is easy to navigate and visually appealing. This is evidenced by iOS 26, which focuses on the Liquid Glass design, even though this aesthetic may not appeal to everyone.
Returning to One UI 8.5, among the most significant design changes is the Weather app, where the city name now displays in a separate bubble. The search bar, which activates by tapping the magnifying glass icon, is now located at the bottom of the screen for easier one-handed access.
As for the Digital Wellbeing app, it now features larger buttons that enhance user interaction. The AI photo editing interface is more convenient, with all options displayed on a single line, eliminating the need to scroll horizontally through the various available tools.
Now we await the official release of One UI 8.5, which will, of course, be compatible with all smartphones currently running One UI 8. This intermediate update is likely to delight users who will feel as if they have a brand new smartphone in their hands due to these design changes.
