Samsung expands One UI 8.5 beta to older Galaxy models like S23 FE and A35, adding AI features, Quick Share for Apple, and enhanced Bixby. Stable release expected soon.
© A. Krivonosov
Samsung is expanding its One UI 8.5 testing program, now rolling out the beta firmware to older Galaxy devices. Following the March phase that covered the Galaxy S24 series and Galaxy Tab S11 tablets, the update is gradually reaching newer models across different regions.
According to insiders, the One UI 8.5 beta is already available in India for the Galaxy S23 FE and has also debuted for the Galaxy A35. In South Korea, the update has reached the Galaxy A55, Galaxy Z Fold 5, and Galaxy Z Flip 5. Meanwhile, newer devices continue to receive subsequent beta versions: the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 are moving to One UI 8.5 beta 2, while the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 are already testing beta 3.
Samsung previously launched the beta program for the Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24 FE, Galaxy S25 FE, Galaxy Z Flip 6, Galaxy Z Flip 7, Galaxy Z Fold 6, and Galaxy Z Fold 7, steadily expanding the list of supported devices. The rollout remains phased: for example, the beta is currently only available in South Korea and the U.S. for the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5, and exclusively in India for the Galaxy A36 5G.
One UI 8.5 focuses on AI features, a refreshed design, and enhanced data protection. A key addition is support for file transfers between Galaxy devices and Apple hardware via Quick Share, similar to AirDrop. However, full compatibility is currently limited to the Galaxy S26 series, with other models to gain it later.
The update also brings an improved New Bixby powered by advanced language models, expanded Galaxy AI capabilities including Audio Eraser tools and contextual Now Nudge notifications. The stable version of One UI 8.5 is expected to launch first for the Galaxy S25 series by late April, before spreading to other devices.