Samsung’s next wave of Galaxy phones may still be a few months away, but that hasn’t stopped excitement around their upcoming software update. The highly anticipated One UI 8.5 is already stirring buzz, promising several notable enhancements to Samsung’s distinctive Android experience. Expected to debut alongside the Galaxy S26 series, likely in January, One UI 8.5 brings some exciting features worth exploring now.
A Fresh Look for One UI
While Samsung isn’t making as dramatic a transformation as Apple’s recent “Liquid Glass” redesign, One UI 8.5 introduces some sleek visual upgrades that elevate the user interface. Courtesy of leaks from tech insiders Max Jambor and SamMobile, we know the new interface is glossier and more refined, with app icons gaining a subtle 3D effect. Popular apps like Digital Wellbeing and Gallery have received noticeable visual refreshes. Though not as revolutionary as Liquid Glass, these changes add a modern and polished feel for users craving a UI facelift.
Expanded Family Sharing for Greater Convenience
Another standout addition to One UI 8.5 is a comprehensive family sharing feature uncovered by SammyGuru. Samsung users will soon be able to create family groups within their Samsung accounts, consolidating family members’ needs in one unified space. This includes sharing payment methods, location tracking, and even health data comparisons, which could prove handy for keeping tabs on loved ones’ wellbeing.
An especially useful function is the new requests page — perfect for managing app or game purchases. Family members can request approvals directly through the group owner, streamlining collaboration and control. This practical expansion is a refreshing break from the era of gimmicky AI, focusing instead on genuinely helpful tools.
Screen Privacy in Crowded Spaces
Privacy-conscious users have something to look forward to as well. Screenshots shared by user Ach (via 9to5Google) reveal an upcoming screen privacy feature designed to protect sensitive on-screen content in public. The system appears to activate privacy mode in crowded locations such as elevators or public transit, when viewing financial or personal apps. While the exact mechanics remain to be seen, the feature likely obscures the screen to prevent prying eyes from catching confidential information — a smart addition in today’s mobile-centric world.
Intelligent Network Switching
One UI 8.5 also introduces intelligent network switching, a practical innovation praised by SammyGuru. This capability enables the phone to automatically determine whether WiFi or cellular data is optimal at any given moment and switch seamlessly between them. This smooth transition will especially benefit users handling large files or streaming, ensuring consistent connectivity without manual tinkering. It’s a modest upgrade but one that could significantly improve day-to-day mobile experience.
Potential for Spatial Media Support
Lastly, there’s an exciting potential feature hinted at by TechRadar and developer @LaidBackDev_. References in the Camera app code to “3D, VR, and spatial media” suggest that Samsung might enable spatial photos and videos in the near future. If true, this would put Galaxy phones on par with iPhones in this cutting-edge area, opening new possibilities for immersive content creation. Considering Samsung’s Project Moohan is nearing launch, the timing aligns well with such a breakthrough.
These highlights represent just a few of the enhancements expected with One UI 8.5. Samsung fans should stay tuned for more announcements as the update’s launch approaches. Patience will be rewarded with a refined and feature-rich software experience.
