Samsung begins One UI 8.5 Beta for Galaxy S25: features and rollout regions

Samsung has officially launched the beta program for its new One UI 8.5 interface, starting in South Korea. The update, designed for the Galaxy S25 lineup, introduces major interface changes and expands device functionality. Within the next few days, users in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, India, and Poland are expected to gain access to the test build.

Deployment Status

According to SamMobile and insider Max Jambor, the first public beta build of One UI 8.5 has already begun reaching Galaxy S25 devices. However, despite the program’s official start, widespread confirmation of availability is still limited. Many users in the listed regions report that they have not yet received download notifications. This suggests that Samsung is rolling out the beta in stages, with broader coverage expected soon.

The beta launch comes only days after a major leak revealed the full changelog. SamMobile has confirmed that the initial release indeed includes all the previously disclosed features.

Key Features of One UI 8.5

Built on Android 16 QPR2, the update integrates Google’s latest OS improvements into the Galaxy ecosystem. It delivers a refreshed visual design, new AI‑powered tools, and tighter cross‑device connectivity. Highlights include:

• Galaxy AI Enhancements: Improved image generation tools.
• Upgraded Bixby: Better natural language understanding and conversation history retention.
• Cross‑Device Sharing: Faster Smart View access and shared storage between Samsung devices.
• Auracast Support: A new audio broadcast menu for easier listening and sound sharing.
• Performance & Battery: Redesigned power management for optimized battery usage.
• Personalization: Expanded customization for quick settings, lock screen, widgets, and icons.
• Security: New anti‑theft protections and stronger privacy controls.
• Accessibility: Broader hearing aid support and new options for users with disabilities.

Visually, One UI 8.5 introduces transparency effects, redesigned UI components, and updated 3D app icons. Samsung will publish the full official changelog once the stable release is ready.

Rollout Timeline and Future Plans

Currently, the beta program is limited to the Galaxy S25 series. The first wave covers South Korea, the US, the UK, and Germany, with India and Poland joining next. Based on Samsung’s usual update schedule, additional regions should follow shortly.

The stable version of One UI 8.5 is expected to debut alongside the Galaxy S26 launch. After that, the update will roll out to Galaxy S25 devices and other eligible smartphones and tablets. Since the firmware is built on Android 16, all Galaxy models that received One UI 8 are expected to upgrade to 8.5 as well.