Samsung is gearing up for the launch of One UI 8.5, its latest custom Android interface, promising design enhancements, advanced AI capabilities, and improved performance. While an official release date remains unannounced, trends and leaks suggest a debut in early 2026, starting with the flagship Galaxy S and Z series in the U.S.
The update will initially be available for unlocked models, with carrier-specific versions from Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile following shortly after. This staggered rollout is consistent with Samsung’s previous updates, ensuring flagship devices are prioritized before mid-range models.
Eligible U.S. devices include the Galaxy S, Z Fold/Flip, and A series, with a focus on those within Samsung’s four-to-seven-year update policy. The Galaxy Tab lineup will also receive the update, particularly its flagship and upper mid-range models.
One UI 8.5 is set to enhance the user experience with improved AI features for text summarization, translation, and note-taking, alongside refined design elements for smoother transitions. Camera and gallery tools will see smarter AI-driven enhancements, while battery and performance optimizations promise better resource management. Customization options will also expand with new widgets and lock screen tweaks.
U.S. users can expect unlocked phones to receive the update first, with carrier models following after additional testing. To check for updates, users can navigate to Settings or the Samsung Members app. It’s recommended to have at least 50% battery and sufficient storage before updating.
Samsung is poised to elevate the Android experience with One UI 8.5, starting its rollout in early 2026 with the Galaxy S25 and Z Fold/Flip series, and extending to the A-series by mid-year. Users should stay informed through Samsung Members and carrier update pages for the latest announcements.
