Samsung advances the development of One UI 8.5 with a beta that introduces transparency effects in more sections of the system. The update, tested internally, applies the glass UI design mainly to the top and bottom of the settings screens and the file manager. Recent leaks show that this approach aims to improve visual fluidity without compromising readability.
This integration occurs after initial adjustments to the quick settings panel and proprietary app icons. The South Korean company seeks to balance modern aesthetics with practical usability. The beta is part of testing for the expected launch with the Galaxy S26 series in February 2026.
The company also refines elements such as the top bar and the adaptive clock on the lock screen. These changes are in addition to animation optimizations and AI integration. The focus remains on a more immersive interface for Galaxy devices.
Glass UI expansion in essential apps
The file manager receives transparency in the headers and footers, allowing the wallpaper to appear subtly. This change creates visual layers that separate functional elements from the background.
Internal tests indicate that the blur effect separates buttons and sliders, avoiding confusing overlaps. Samsung has adjusted color saturation to maintain contrast on OLED screens.
Control Center Settings
The control center gains thinner outlines in the shortcuts, with integrated transparency. This reduces the visual rigidity of the previous version.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth icons now float on blurred backgrounds.
- Volume and brightness sliders decouple for customization.
- Audio and brightness modes maintain subtle contours for visibility.
These elements flow better with the wallpaper, without excesses that hinder reading.
Version 8.0 had more pronounced dividers, but beta 8.5 smoothes transitions. Foldable users notice gains in multitasking with these effects.
Clock and top bar improvements
The adaptive clock on the lock screen tests variable transparency based on the wallpaper. This allows for dynamic color and opacity adaptations.
The top bar gains improved readability via reduced transparency in status icons. Battery and notifications stand out better on dark backgrounds.
These refinements avoid common complaints about visibility in overly blurry designs. Samsung monitors internal feedback for final calibrations.
Icon and animation integration
Proprietary app icons embrace depth with glass overlays. App folders animate with smooth transitions, expanding blur at edges.
The Phone app introduces blur to dialing buttons, increasing sophistication. Setup settings, such as the “Continue” button, apply the same treatment.
General system animations speed up by 10% in tests, with a focus on fluidity. These updates prepare the interface for S26 series hardware.
Current beta technical details
The latest build, identified as YJH, includes the October 2025 security patch. It expands blur areas by 20% compared to the previous one, covering more panels.
Internal developers report optimizations for mid-range devices, reducing load on processors. Transparency automatically adapts to hardware capabilities.
- Support Android 16 base with quarterly updates.
- Galaxy AI integration for blurred notifications.
- Compatibility with foldables via improved multitasking.
Application on different devices
One UI 8.5 aims to expand to Galaxy intermediaries after the flagship launch. Models like the A56 5G are already receiving preliminary betas with glass elements.
Samsung plans open beta in December 2025, initially for S25 serieses. This allows for extensive testing before the stable release in 2026.
S21 FE users, updated to One UI 8, prepare the ground for migration. The 2.3 GB update includes September patches, signaling an accelerated pace.
The glass UI design differentiates Samsung from rivals, prioritizing contrast and personalization. Tests confirm that the beta runs stable in 90% of daily scenarios, with a focus on battery and performance.