Samsung has begun rolling out its One UI 8.5 software update to older Galaxy devices globally, expanding availability beyond the Galaxy S26 lineup that received the update in February 2026. The update, which runs on Android 16, brings improvements to anti-theft protections, AI photo editing, the Bixby voice assistant, and cross-platform file sharing.
Devices confirmed to receive the update include the Galaxy S25 and S24 series (including FE and Ultra variants), the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Fold 6, the Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Z Flip 6, and the Galaxy Tab S11 and S10 series.
On the security front, One UI 8.5 introduces a Failed Authentication Lock that automatically locks the device after repeated failed PIN, password, or fingerprint attempts. Samsung is also expanding its Identity Check protections to cover more sensitive settings across Galaxy devices.
The update upgrades Photo Assist to support continuous image editing, allowing users to generate and modify multiple AI-edited versions of a photo without saving each edit separately. An edit history feature lets users review and restore previous AI-generated versions.
Bixby receives a notable update through a Perplexity partnership, enabling the assistant to navigate device settings using natural language commands and conduct real-time web searches — with results displayed within the Bixby interface rather than opening a separate browser.
Quick Share gains AirDrop compatibility, meaning Samsung users will be able to share files directly with Apple devices. Quick Share can also now recognize people in photos and suggest sharing those images with relevant contacts.
Finally, One UI 8.5 adds Audio Broadcast support via Auracast-compatible LE Audio devices, allowing users to broadcast their voice from a Galaxy smartphone to nearby supported devices — a feature Samsung suggests could be useful in group settings such as events or tours.
Source: mint – technology