Samsung has started rolling out the beta version of One UI 8.5 for the Galaxy S25 line in selected regions such as Estados Unidos, Reino Unido, Coreia of Sul and Alemanha. The update, built on top of Android 16 QPR2, focuses on significant customization and usability improvements.
The main objective is to offer greater flexibility in accessing essential controls, meeting user demands for a more adaptable interface. Esta new testing phase seeks to collect feedback before the release of the stable version, scheduled for 2026.
The availability took place on December 8, 2025, marking an important step in improving the experience of Galaxy devices. The company aims to refine features based on user interactions in the beta program.
Improved customization in the quick settings panel
The Samsung now allows users to separate the brightness and volume sliders, which previously worked as one combined element. Esta functionality gives you the freedom to rearrange these control bars, adjusting their sizes between 1×1 and 1×4, which is especially useful for single-handed operation on larger screens, like the 6.8-inch screen on the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Furthermore, the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth buttons also gained independence, allowing them to be removed or repositioned according to preference. The company organized the options into logical sections, similar to competitor interfaces, to speed up daily access and make navigation more intuitive.
New widgets and system controls
Toggle widgets can now occupy spaces outside of traditional foldable panels. Usuários can add elements such as smart device controls directly to the Configurações Rápidas’s main screen. Essa change reduces additional clicks in common routines, optimizing interaction.
The update supports different toggle sizes, from 1×1 to 1×2, promoting custom layouts. Samsung has been testing these options internally for weeks, incorporating suggestions from early beta testers to ensure effectiveness.
Interface optimizations and artificial intelligence
One UI 8.5 introduces 3D effect icons and transparencies to system applications, modernizing the overall appearance of the interface. Photo Assist now performs image edits transparently, without the need to save intermediate versions, using artificial intelligence to remove unwanted objects or precisely reshape visual elements. Bixby, the voice assistant of Samsung, receives updates to handle more complex commands and allows access to conversation history through a side panel, making it easier to retrieve information. Adicionalmente, Quick Share is enhanced to identify faces in photos, offering automatic sharing suggestions with relevant contacts, optimizing workflow and social interaction.
Beta program availability and next steps
The One UI 8.5 beta program is initially restricted to the Galaxy S25 series. Interested parties can register through the Samsung Members app to participate in the tests and provide feedback.
Countries such as Índia and Polônia are expected to receive the second phase of the program in the coming weeks, expanding the scope of testing. Firmware S93xU1UEU7ZYL8 marks the US version, including the December security patches.
Samsung plans to extend the update to older models, such as the Galaxy S24, after the launch of the Galaxy S26, scheduled for January 2026. The company emphasizes that the beta version serves to refine features based on real user feedback.
Improved connectivity and productivity
One UI 8.5 integrates support for Auracast, a technology that enhances audio streams for LE Audio compatible devices. Isso allows users to configure and manage audio streams in multi-device environments synchronously and without interruptions, which is particularly useful for audio experiences shared in groups or in public spaces with multiple receivers.
Additionally, Samsung’s DeX platform, which transforms the smartphone into a desktop experience, has been optimized to maintain the size and position of windows when reopening applications, providing a more fluid and efficient transition to multitasking workflows. The Calculadora application also received a practical improvement, suggesting numbers copied from the clipboard for quick insertion, speeding up everyday and professional tasks.
Impact on daily usage experience
The first tests indicate a reduction in the time to access settings, with vertical layouts that favor intuitive navigation. Full customization eliminates the restrictions of One UI 7 and 8, where fixed buttons created frustration among users.
The Samsung incorporated options to remove icons like the Smart View, responding to calls for a more simplified and less cluttered interface. The control panel now supports partial screen recording, a useful tool for quick tutorials or capturing specific moments.
The device’s battery also benefits from a redesigned page with detailed metrics, allowing users to optimize consumption during extended use. Esta improvement aims to extend autonomy and offer greater control over energy expenditure.
These changes seek to provide a more fluid experience adapted to individual needs, raising the standard of interaction with smartphones.
Expanded Functions in Native Apps
The Relógio app adds simultaneous time zone comparisons, with an intuitive slider to check time differences between multiple global cities without the need for third-party apps.
The evolution of the One UI for the future
The beta version of One UI 8.5 signals Samsung’s direction towards more intuitive interfaces, with transparencies and 3D icons as standard. The company anticipates deeper integrations with Galaxy AI in future updates.