Samsung introduces Galaxy AI feature that encourages family contact in One UI 8.5 in 2026 By Janderson Luiz
4 min read
 |
Samsung has introduced new functionality in Galaxy AI integrated into One UI 8.5, designed to encourage family interactions through alerts on the time elapsed since last contact. The feature, called Now Brief, displays notifications about how many days have passed without exchanging messages with close family members, seeking to reduce forgetting important communications. Essa update arrives in beta in early 2026, coinciding with the launch of the Galaxy S26 series.
The South Korean company maintains its focus on artificial intelligence tools that make users’ daily lives easier. Now Brief integrates with other existing Galaxy AI features, such as real-time translation and advanced image editing, reinforcing the proposition of a more connected and attentive experience.
The goal of Samsung is to double the number of devices compatible with Galaxy AI to 800 million throughout 2026. Essa expansion includes not only recent flagships, but also mid-range and older models that will receive parts of the update.
New feature Now Brief
Now Brief works as a proactive assistant that analyzes the user’s communications history. Ele generates discreet alerts when it detects long periods of no interaction with contacts marked as family in the messaging or contacts app.
This tool uses local device data to preserve privacy, without sending information to external servers. Users can customize notifications by defining which contacts receive priority and the frequency of reminders.
The functionality appears integrated into the smart suggestions panel of One UI 8.5. Ela complements Now Bar, which already offers quick summaries of daily activities.
Integration with existing tools
The Galaxy AI in One UI 8.5 maintains consolidated features such as Circle to Search, which allows contextual searches directly on the screen. Real-time translation during calls and conversations also receives accuracy improvements in less common languages.
Another highlight is Audio Eraser, capable of automatically removing unwanted noise in video recordings. The generation of images from sketches, known as AI Sketch, gains more refined options for artistic styles.
- Multiple generative editing in photos without the need for intermediate saving;
- Smart notification summaries to reduce information overload;
- Personalized suggestions based on daily usage patterns.
These tools operate with hybrid processing, combining on-premises and cloud resources when necessary.
Expanding to more devices
Samsung plans to bring the expanded Galaxy AI to a wider range of devices throughout 2026.
The company has confirmed that the Galaxy S26 series will arrive with One UI 8.5 pre-installed, including all new AI features. Dispositivos foldables like the Z Fold and Z Flip line also make the priority list for quick updates.
Tablets from the Galaxy Tab S series and some mid-range A models will gain access to basic AI functions. Essa strategy aims to democratize advanced tools without relying exclusively on high-end hardware.
The update weighs in at around 1.2GB in the latest beta, with optimizations for performance on varying processors.
Benefits for the everyday user
The focus on family interactions responds to a demand for tools that balance digital connectivity with personal relationships. Muitos users report difficulty maintaining regular contact due to their fast-paced schedule, and Now Brief offers a practical solution.
The One UI 8.5 interface prioritizes usability, with redesigned icons and more fluid animations. Battery receives improved management while using background AI features.
- Reduction of forgetfulness in important communications;
- Greater control over personalized notifications;
- Native integration with standard Samsung applications.
These elements contribute to a more intuitive experience on Galaxy devices.
Release schedule
The beta phase of One UI 8.5 began in December 2025 for select models, expanding in January 2026. The stable version is expected to first reach the Galaxy S26 series at the beginning of the year.
Other devices receive the update in subsequent waves depending on region and model. Samsung maintains open testing programs for users interested in preliminary versions.
The company makes continuous adjustments based on feedback from the beta community. Correções of bugs and stability improvements occur in incremental updates.
Privacy and security
All Galaxy AI features process sensitive data locally whenever possible. Now Brief does not store message histories in the cloud without explicit user consent.
The Samsung reinforces layers of encryption in communications and provides granular opt-out options. Regular Atualizações include specific security patches for AI tools.
Users completely control what data the system accesses to generate suggestions. Transparência in permissions remains a priority in One UI 8.5.
Other new features of the update
One UI 8.5 brings a subtle visual redesign, with an emphasis on dynamic themes and advanced customization. The lock screen gains AI-compatible interactive widgets.
DeX mode for connecting to external displays receives improved multitasking support. Native Aplicativos like Galeria and Notas incorporate AI-assisted editing.
- Expanded support for regional languages in live translation;
- Gaming performance optimization with intelligent cooling;
- New camera filters based on machine learning.
These additions complete a robust package of improvements to the Galaxy ecosystem.
Samsung consolidates its position in the mobile device market with embedded artificial intelligence. Combining practical features like the Now Brief with broad expansion demonstrates a commitment to making technology more human and accessible.
