One UI 8.5 Update: AI Features Previously Exclusive to Galaxy S26 Now Coming to Older Models

Danny Weber

11:27 22-04-2026

© A. Krivonosov

Samsung is rolling out One UI 8.5 with AI features like Call Screening, Audio Eraser, and Creative Studio to Galaxy S24, Z Fold/Flip 6, and more, ending beta soon.

Samsung is actively pushing forward with One UI 8.5, and according to recent leaks, owners of last year's flagships may finally get features that were initially considered exclusive to the Galaxy S26 series. After a long string of beta updates, it's becoming clear that the company is ready to wrap up testing and move toward a stable release for a wider audience.

New AI Features: Not Just for the S26

It was previously reported that Call Screening would come to older models with One UI 8.5. This smart call-answering feature lets an assistant take calls for you and show a live text transcription of the conversation, which is especially useful for blocking spam and scam calls.

But fresh information points to a bigger update. Alongside Call Screening, users will get Creative Studio, Audio Eraser, an updated Photo Assist, and AI Select.

Creative Studio is an expanded image-editing toolkit. It can transform photos into different styles, create custom stickers, and let you edit content using natural language. The feature is integrated into the Edge Panel for quick access to advanced editing options.

Photo Assist has also been improved. Photo editing is now smarter: the system analyzes the scene and suggests processing options while maintaining a balance between realism and flair.

Audio Eraser is aimed at video and audio editing. It can remove unwanted noise and enhance specific sounds directly in stock apps like Voice Recorder or Gallery. This makes the smartphone a more versatile content-creation tool.

AI Select expands on-screen interaction. You can highlight or circle any element to access translation, GIF creation, drawing assistance, and other smart tools.

Which Devices Will Get the Update

According to insiders, the new features won't be limited to Galaxy S25 owners. They are expected to roll out to Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7, as well as the previous Fold 6 and Flip 6. Also on the list are devices from the Galaxy S24 series. There's also mention of the Galaxy S25 FE, which will likely get the new AI capabilities. However, it remains unclear whether they will extend to the Galaxy S24 FE and the Galaxy S23 lineup.

Owners of supported models are advised to check for the update in system settings. The rollout traditionally begins in South Korea and then gradually expands to other regions.

The End of the Beta Saga for the Galaxy S25

There's another important piece of news for Galaxy S25 owners: the lengthy One UI 8.5 beta program is nearing its end. A stable build with the CZDH index has been spotted on Samsung's test servers, signaling an imminent official release. According to preliminary data, international versions of the Galaxy S25 could get the stable update as early as May 2026. After that, the Galaxy S24 will follow.

What's Next?

The Galaxy S26 was the first device to ship with a stable version of One UI 8.5, but Samsung isn't limiting new features to fresh models. The company is showing its willingness to quickly bring key capabilities to previous flagships. Despite user fatigue from the many beta builds, the final result promises to be a significant step forward for the Galaxy ecosystem. Ahead lies One UI 9 based on Android 17, and hopefully the next update cycle will be less drawn out.

One thing is already clear: Samsung is doubling down on artificial intelligence and making it accessible not only to owners of the newest devices but also to those who bought a flagship a year ago.