Samsung Electronics announced the beta program of One UI 8.5, a version based on Android 16 QPR2, for the Galaxy S25 series. The launch took place on December 8, 2025, initially on Estados Unidos, Reino Unido, Alemanha, Índia, Coreia, The update aims to improve content creation, connectivity between devices and security measures, according to the company’s official statement.
Galaxy S25, S25+ and S25 Ultra users can sign up via the Samsung Members app to test the new features.
The initiative allows direct feedback from participants, with expansion planned for more models in the coming weeks.
- Main initial markets: USA, Reino Unido, Alemanha, Índia, Coreia from Sul and Polônia.
- Requirements: Dispositivo unlocked or T-Mobile version in the US, signed in to account Samsung.
- Expansion: Foldables and other flagships should enter beta by the end of 2025.
Improved creation capabilities
One UI 8.5 introduces updates to Photo Assist, an artificial intelligence image editing tool. Agora, users edit photos continuously, without saving each intermediate version.
This makes experimentation easier, as the edit history allows you to select your preferred final image.
Quick Share gains automatic contact suggestions based on faces detected in photos, speeding up sending to friends or family.
Connectivity between ecosystem Galaxy
The Storage Share allows you to access files from other nearby Samsung devices directly from the My Files app.
Users view content from tablets, PCs or TVs without manual transfers, as long as they are connected to the same account.
The feature requires Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled, with initial approval on the source device.
Connection via Smart View gains a shortcut on the home screen for quick mirroring on TVs or monitors.
Fully customizable quick dashboard
Version 8.5 revamps the quick settings panel, allowing you to freely rearrange icons, sliders and sections.
Users add or remove controls with a simplified interface, inspired by categorizations from other systems.
This includes options to expand buttons and prioritize frequently used functions.
The design adopts transparent visual elements and 3D icons for native Samsung apps.
Audio and vibration improvements
The Auracast receives updates for voice transmission via the phone’s microphone to nearby headphones or speakers.
Ideal for guides at events or tours, the Audio Broadcast creates group audio sessions with a separate layout for sending and receiving.
4D vibration gains improved presets for games, with simpler pairing of controls.
These changes elevate the multimedia experience on supported devices.
Refined battery management
The battery information screen displays estimated remaining time, charging status, and daily usage from the previous week.
Power saving mode offers standard and maximum levels, with options to limit specific features.
This helps extend autonomy without compromising essential functions, based on real usage patterns.
Support for eligible devices
One UI 8.5 should cover flagships from 2022, with priority for the S25, S24 and S23 series.
Models like Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 make the list, followed by mid-ranges A55 and A35.
Samsung promises seven years of updates for recent devices, adjusting commitments for Android 16 phases.
Estimates indicate stable rollout from February 2026, starting with Galaxy S26.
Advances in privacy and security
The update strengthens theft protections with suspicious movement detection and improved remote locking.
Shared images include automatic watermarking to indicate AI edits, avoiding misunderstandings.
Quick Share restricts sending to verified Samsung or Google accounts, reducing spam risks.
These mechanisms operate in the background, with no impact on daily performance.
Revamped native apps
The Relógio app adds alarm backgrounds with local weather conditions, displaying forecasts when you wake up.
Samsung Health allows you to share training statistics directly, with achievement graphs.
The calculator and messages receive 3D icons and floating navigation bars for better usability.
These changes maintain visual consistency across the interface.
Beta Expansion and Future Timeline
The beta program advances with a second version scheduled for December 22, 2025, correcting initial bugs.
More regions and models, such as foldables, are expected to join by January 2026.
The stable version follows the launch of Galaxy S26, between January and February, with sequential distribution for older devices until May.
This ensures hardware-specific optimizations before widespread adoption.
