Samsung Electronics announced the One UI 8.5 beta program, based on Android 16, which introduces visual changes inspired by Liquid Glass’s iOS 26 design from Apple. The update focuses on floating elements and depth effects to improve navigation on Galaxy smartphones. The stable launch takes place in 2026, alongside the Galaxy S26 series, with the beta initially available for the Galaxy S25 in countries such as Alemanha, Índia, Coreia, Sul,
The initiative aims to offer a more fluid and premium interface, without adopting excessive transparencies seen in initial betas of iOS 26.
- Major changes include floating back buttons in the settings menu.
- Rounded navigation bars appear in apps like the dialer.
- 3D effects on app buttons Calculadora simulate elevation.
These changes come as Google advances with Material 3 Expressive, praised for its consistency.
Visual changes in One UI 8.5
One UI 8.5 features floating back buttons in the Samsung settings menu and native apps, similar to those in iOS 26. Essa implementation creates a sense of elevation, making navigation easier without cluttering the screen.
Navigation bars with rounded corners integrate into the design, especially in the dialer app, where they promote a smooth transition between screens.
Here are the One UI 8.5 Beta Update changes:🔥
—Samtechique (@Samtechique)December 10, 2025
1.Redesigned Update Screen ✨️
2. Weather Feature(Photo Ambient) in Wallpaper Settings Page✨️
3. Refined Battery Pill Icon✨️
4.Overall Redefined floating Menu styled bar in Settings,Phone and Samsung Apps✨️#samsung #oneui8.5pic.twitter.com/83BuKwhDDS
New effects in native apps
The Galeria gains subtle transparency in panels, allowing visual overlays that highlight photos without distracting the user. Esse feature improves image editing with more intuitive layers.
In the Calculadora app, buttons receive a three-dimensional “pop-up” effect, with shadows that simulate depth and respond to touches.
Other updates include pill-shaped search in the app drawer and circular icons in file categories.
Customizable Quick Panel
One UI 8.5’s quick panel lets you rearrange toggles and sliders in free-form fashion, separating icons with a blurry aesthetic for greater clarity. Essa customization expands options seen in the One UI 8.0, adapting to individual preferences.
The change creates visual depth, inspired by ground glass effects but optimized for performance on processors like the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.
Enhanced AI and Connectivity Features
One UI 8.5 integrates improved AI tools such as expanded Photo Assist for automatic edits to photos and videos. The Bixby assistant now processes complex commands such as schedule summaries or real-time translations.
Quick Share gains greater speed, with instant sharing between Galaxy devices. Lock screen Layouts automatically adjust to images, optimizing dynamic displays.
These enhancements aim to unify the experience across the Galaxy ecosystem, including tablets and wearables.
Release Calendar and Eligibility
The beta begins on December 8, 2025 for Galaxy S25, expanding to Índia and Polônia in the coming weeks. The stable version arrives in the first quarter of 2026, pre-installed on the Galaxy S26, S26+ and S26 Ultra.
Compatible devices include S25, S24, Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 series, with gradual rollout to older models.
Users access the beta via the Samsung Members app, with feedback influencing final adjustments.
Differences in relation to Material 3
While Material 3 Expressive from The Essa approach maintains the Samsung identity, but broadens the contrast with Google apps on Galaxy devices.
The strategy allows for extensive customization, overcoming iOS limitations in themes and widgets.
Impact on user experience
Galaxy owners notice greater responsiveness in navigation, with touches that activate haptic vibrations in line with visual effects. The design avoids excess transparency, focusing on daily usability such as multitasking and DeX.
Security updates include improved battery management and enhanced sharing privacy.
Expansion to Galaxy ecosystem
One UI 8.5 extends changes to watches and tablets, with a unified interface that synchronizes notifications and themes. No Galaxy Watch, floating elements appear in fitness menus, integrating health data in a visual way.
For TVs and PCs, the Storage Share enables unified file access via the My Files, simplifying transfers.
These integrations set the stage for future upgrades like 25W Qi2 support for wireless charging.
Preparation for Galaxy S26
The Galaxy S26 series incorporates One UI 8.5 from launch, with optimizations for cameras that support advanced AI modes. Protótipos reveal redesigned camera module, compatible with the new look of the interface.
Production of the S26 Ultra begins in December 2025, with global sales in February 2026.
