Samsung releases Android 16 with One UI 8.5 for 50 models and improves battery life

Samsung confirmed the launch of Android 16 with One UI 8.5 for dozens of models in its Galaxy line. The update will be automatically distributed via Over-The-Air (OTA) technology, without the need for cables or computer software. The main focus is on battery optimization, artificial intelligence and energy efficiency, aligning the brand’s portfolio with the latest innovations in neural processing.

The software strategy marks a watershed moment for the Galaxy ecosystem, establishing clear guidelines on mobile device longevity and support. The company prioritized internal components capable of supporting the graphical and computational demands of the new tools, which resulted in the end of the cycle of major updates for devices prior to the Galaxy S21 family, which will only receive security fixes.

Один интерфейс 8.5 😍pic.twitter.com/6iONkkIwOU

– CID (@theonecid)6 Şubat 2026 г.

Linha Galaxy S receives priority in distribution

The Samsung premium category maintains a prominent position in the development schedule, being the first to receive features that deeply integrate hardware and software. The update promises to revitalize models launched a few years ago, as long as they are within the brand’s official support window.

Owners of the following devices can wait for the update notification:

• Galaxy S25, S25 Plus, S25 Ultra, S25 Edge and S25 FE
• Galaxy S24, S24 Plus, S24 Ultra and S24 FE
• Galaxy S23, S23 Plus, S23 Ultra and S23 FE
• Galaxy S22, S22 Plus and S22 Ultra
• Galaxy S21 FE

Dispositivos foldables gain specific optimizations

Para the flexible screen segment, the One UI 8.5 brings optimizations focused on the continuity of tasks between the external and internal displays. The software was adjusted to recognize the physical state of the device, adapting power consumption and the arrangement of applications when the device is used in semi-open mode. Compatibility spans multiple generations, reaffirming the company’s commitment to the durability of this innovative category.

Foldable models covered include Galaxy Z Fold 7, Fold 6, Fold 5 and Fold 4, as well as Galaxy Z Flip 7, Flip 7 FE and Flip 6. Esses devices will receive specific improvements for multitasking and intelligent management of resources.

Série Galaxy A expands coverage with a focus on intermediaries

The Galaxy A series, responsible for a significant portion of the brand’s user base globally, was integrated into the Android 16 planning. The objective in this segment is to offer a modern experience with advanced features, without compromising battery life. Software engineering focused on aggressive RAM memory management to avoid crashes and ensure stable browsing on intermediate hardware.

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Eligible mid-range smartphones include Galaxy A56, A55, A54, A53, A36, A35, A34, A33, A26, A25, A17, A17 5G, A16, A16 5G, A15 and A15 5G. Essa’s scope reinforces Samsung’s commitment to offering meaningful upgrades beyond the premium segment.

Tablets and rugged equipment receive productivity improvements

In the tablet sector, the update aims to transform the equipment into true mobile workstations, improving the connection with other devices in the ecosystem, such as notebooks and smartphones. Para corporate and industrial audiences, the robust lines will receive the update with a focus on compatibility with business security protocols and field tools, ensuring operability in adverse environments.

The full list of eligible tablets covers Galaxy Tab S11, S11 Plus, S10 Plus, S10 Ultra, S10 FE, S10 FE Plus, S9, S9 Plus, S9 Ultra, S9 FE, S9 FE Plus, S8, S8 Plus, S8 Ultra, S6 Lite (2024 release), Tab A11, A11 Plus, A9, A9 Plus, Tab Active 5, Active 5 Pro, XCover 7, XCover 7 Pro and XCover 6 Pro.

Privacidade improved and new visual identity

One UI 8.5 introduces a revamped Privacy Control Panel, giving users more granular control over permissions granted to apps. Relatórios details on camera, microphone and location usage will be available, along with new biometric authentication options to authorize changes to critical system settings. Animations have been rewritten to feel immediately responsive to touch, while icons and menus have received aesthetic adjustments to make reading and navigation easier.

Nos behind the scenes, machine learning algorithms will act by suspending applications that are in disuse, a vital strategy to preserve battery charge during days of intense use and maintain system stability. Essa approach represents the central focus of the update: ensuring that Samsung devices operate at maximum energy efficiency without sacrificing performance.