Samsung One UI 8.5 Official Rollout Begins — Here's What's New For Your Galaxy

Samsung has officially kicked off the global rollout of One UI 8.5, its latest Android-based software update, beginning with South Korea on May 6, 2026. The update brings a wave of Galaxy AI features focused on communication, device control, and creative tools, and it's headed to a wide range of Galaxy phones and tablets.

Which Devices Are Getting One UI 8.5?

Samsung confirmed the update is rolling out to the following devices:

1. Galaxy S25 series and Galaxy S25 FE
2. Galaxy S24 series and Galaxy S24 FE
3. Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7
4. Galaxy Z Fold6 and Galaxy Z Flip6
5. Galaxy Tab S11 series and Galaxy Tab S10 series

If you're running one of these devices, the update should arrive as an OTA (over-the-air) notification. Korea gets it first, with other regions set to follow in the coming weeks.

What's Actually New in One UI 8.5?

The headline feature is a completely redesigned Bixby. Samsung has rebuilt its voice assistant into what it calls a "conversational device agent," meaning instead of memorising exact commands or hunting through settings menus, you simply describe what you want in plain language and Bixby figures it out.

For example, if you say "I don't want my screen turning off while I'm looking at it", Bixby now understands that intent and enables the 'Keep Screen on While Viewing' setting directly, without you ever opening Settings. It can also read your current device state and suggest solutions when something isn't working the way you expect.

Beyond device control, the new Bixby also supports real-time web search directly within its interface. You can ask something like "Find hotels in Accra with a pool" and get results without being bounced to a browser. Everything stays in one place.

Samsung says the update centres on two main areas: communication and creative experiences, building on the Galaxy AI features the company has been rolling out since 2024.

When Will It Reach Ghana and Africa?

Samsung has not announced a specific timeline for Ghana or the broader African market. The rollout starts in Korea, with "additional regions to follow," but no dates have been confirmed for West Africa. Watch your Settings > Software Update screen if your device is on the supported list. We'll provide update as regional rollout details become available.