Samsung Begins Rolling Out One UI 8.5 to Galaxy S23 and A-Series Phones
Samsung is expanding its One UI 8.5 software update to older Galaxy models worldwide. The rollout began in South Korea on May 6 and reached additional countries on May 11 and May 23.
ForbesSamsung has started distributing One UI 8.5, its latest software built on Android 16, to several older Galaxy phone models. The update reached Galaxy S23 series devices in Germany, Pakistan, Portugal, and Spain, and Galaxy A56 units in South Africa, Norway, Egypt, and other markets.
The company first released One UI 8.5 on May 6 to the Galaxy S26 series in South Korea. Global distribution began May 11 for the Galaxy S25 series and recent foldable models, followed by the Galaxy S24 series.
the Update Today's distribution wave covers the Galaxy S23, S23 Plus, S23 Ultra, A56, and A36. The Galaxy S23 FE is scheduled to follow. Eligible devices now include most Galaxy phones released in the past three to four years, along with select tablets.
The update introduces a redesigned interface with floating menus, new Quick Panel and Lock Screen options, and Quick Share integration that supports AirDrop-style transfers. Four AI tools—Audio Eraser, Creative Studio, Call Screening, and an updated Photo Assist—are limited to Galaxy S24 and newer models.
Galaxy S23 series phones receive an upgraded Bixby assistant powered by Perplexity AI that can locate and adjust settings through natural language commands. The four newer AI features and Quick Share AirDrop compatibility are not included on devices older than the Galaxy S24 series.
Mid-range tablets Galaxy Tab S10 FE and Tab S10 FE+ are also scheduled for rollout, beginning in South Korea.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
3 events- May 6
One UI 8.5 released in South Korea to Galaxy S26 series.
1 sourceForbes - May 11
Global rollout began for Galaxy S25 series and recent foldables.
1 sourceForbes - May 23
Update reached Galaxy S23 series and A56 models in multiple countries.
1 sourceForbes
Potential Impact
- 01
Galaxy S23 owners will receive fewer new AI features than newer models.
- 02
Wider tablet rollout is expected by the end of May.
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