Key Highlights
- 💡 Samsung skips One UI 8.1 → jumps directly to One UI 8.5
- 🎨 New 3D-like interface and customizable quick settings panel
- 🔐 Adds new Privacy Protection and lock screen animations
- 📱 Expected to launch with Galaxy S26 series in early 2026
One UI 8 Overview
Samsung recently rolled out Android 16-based One UI 8, continuing its yearly major update cycle. While the current version brings stability and small refinements, users feel it lacks major design upgrades.
That’s where One UI 8.5 steps in — early leaks suggest it could be one of Samsung’s most visually distinct and customizable versions yet.
New 3D-like User Interface
One of the biggest visual shifts in One UI 8.5 is a 3D-inspired look. Icons now appear slightly raised, adding a soft shadow for a realistic depth effect.
According to leaks shared by Max Jambor, Samsung is testing subtle gradients within its system apps to create a layered, more dynamic design.
While it’s still in the testing phase, this design direction brings Samsung closer to Google’s Material You 3D-style interface on Android 16.
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Customizable Quick Settings Panel
One UI 8.5 gives users full control over their quick settings layout — a first for Samsung.
Instead of fixed toggles, users can now:
- Move or delete icons freely
- Reorder cards and widgets
- Create a personalized layout for easier access
This feature builds on One UI 7’s split notification system, making navigation more intuitive.
Refreshed Samsung Apps
Samsung’s native apps are also getting small but meaningful tweaks.
The search bar has been moved to the bottom in apps like Gallery and Phone for easier one-handed use.
Text labels in the navigation bar are being replaced by minimalist icons, giving apps a cleaner, more consistent look.
Lock Screen & Animation Updates
Samsung is adding three new clock styles for the lock screen, plus a cool animation trick — now, when you double-tap to wake your phone, the unlock animation starts right from your touch point, giving a more “alive” and responsive feel.
These micro animations might look minor but can significantly enhance the user experience.
New Privacy & AI Features
The upcoming update could bring Privacy Protection, a tool that automatically detects and blurs sensitive details in images before sharing.
Another improvement includes the Now Brief AI toggle, which can now also double as a flashlight control, improving usability.
Release Timeline
Samsung is expected to debut One UI 8.5 alongside the Galaxy S26 lineup in early 2026.
The update will later expand to:
- Galaxy S25 series
- Galaxy Z Fold7 / Flip7
- Select Galaxy A-series phones (mid-2025 rollout expected)
If you’re not part of Samsung’s beta program, it’s best to wait for the stable build, as early betas may include bugs or unfinished animations.
Final Thoughts
While One UI 8 was more of a refinement, One UI 8.5 looks like a true step forward in Samsung’s interface evolution — more dynamic visuals, deeper customization, and privacy-focused features.
Samsung fans waiting for a fresher experience can look forward to a major upgrade in 2026.
