OneUI 8 vs OneUI 8.5: A Comprehensive Comparison

[BrownStarX]

Samsung's OneUI evolution continues with OneUI 8.5, representing a significantly larger update than the initial OneUI 8 release. Based on Android 16 QPR2 rather than the initial Android 16 build, OneUI 8.5 introduces substantial visual changes and new AI-powered features that set it apart from its predecessor.

Release Timeline and Availability

OneUI 8 was officially released in July 2025 with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 series, followed by a gradual rollout to older devices starting September 2025. The stable rollout began with the Galaxy S25 series and expanded to other eligible devices throughout October and November 2025.

OneUI 8.5 is expected to debut with the Galaxy S26 series in early 2026, with a beta program reportedly launching in late November 2025, specifically during the week of November 24. This represents an unusual approach for Samsung, which typically doesn't offer beta programs for 8.5 version updates.

Visual Design and Interface Changes

3D Icon Design Revolution

OneUI 8.5's most striking visual change is the introduction of 3D app icons. Unlike OneUI 8's flat design approach, the new icons feature:

• Drop shadow effects that make icons appear raised from the screen
• Gradient glow effects for enhanced depth perception
• A visual style reminiscent of Samsung's TouchWiz interface from the Galaxy S6 era 
• Application to both Samsung's stock apps and third-party applications like YouTube and Google Play Store

Customizable Quick Panel

OneUI 8.5 introduces comprehensive Quick Panel customization, allowing users to:

• Resize and rearrange all toggles and sliders freely
• Position volume and brightness sliders vertically or horizontally
• Remove unwanted elements completely
• Customize the shape and position of control elements

Enhanced Visual Elements

OneUI 8.5 incorporates several visual refinements:

• Improved gradient effects throughout system apps
• Frosted glass background for lock screen notifications with reduced transparency
• New clock styles for the lock screen
• More rounded corners and increased spacing in the Settings app

AI Features and Functionality

OneUI 8.5 introduces four major AI features

• Meeting Assistant: Provides real-time language translation during meetings, can read and translate presentation slides, and displays translations on screen.
• Touch Assistant: Enhances reading experience by explaining words when touched and helping with long article comprehension.
• Smart Clipboard: Automatically suggests actions after copying text, including summarization and translation options.
• Social Composer: Generates social media posts based on uploaded photos and creates product reviews for shopping apps.

Advanced Call Features

OneUI 8.5 introduces Auto Answer with AI, Samsung's version of Google Pixel's Call Screen feature. This automatically:

• Answers calls after 5-30 seconds of ringing
• Transcribes caller responses in real-time
• Filters spam and identifies important calls
• Processes audio on Samsung's servers without permanent storage

Enhanced AI Integration

Modes and Routines receive significant upgrades, allowing:

• Integration of Gemini and Bixby prompts within automated routines
• Automatic AI queries triggered by specific conditions
• Smart contextual responses based on location and time

Core Features and Improvements

OneUI 8 Foundation

OneUI 8 established several key features:

• Enhanced multitasking with 90:10 split-screen ratios
• Improved Quick Share with separated sending/receiving tabs
• Portrait Studio for AI-generated pet portraits
• Now Bar integration on FlexWindow displays
• Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP) for improved security

OneUI 8.5 Enhancements

Building on OneUI 8's foundation, OneUI 8.5 adds:

• 8K video recording at 25fps in Pro Video mode
• Edit history for generative editing features
• AI-powered notification summaries
• Enhanced system app redesigns including Phone, Files, and Device Care
• NFC-based Quick Share functionality

System Applications and User Experience

Redesigned Applications

OneUI 8.5 features comprehensive app redesigns

• Phone app: New pill-shaped bottom navigation with drop shadows
• Settings app: Search bar moved to bottom for easier one-handed access
• Weather app: Enhanced information including pollen levels
• Files app: Updated visual design with gradient effects

Photography and Camera Improvements

OneUI 8.5 enhances camera capabilities with:

• Clean preview mode for distraction-free shooting
• Improved Portrait Studio functionality
• Enhanced generative editing with side-by-side comparison on foldable devices

Performance and Technical Foundation

Android Base Differences

The technical foundation differs significantly between versions:

• OneUI 8: Based on Android 16 QPR1 (initial stable release)
• OneUI 8.5: Based on Android 16 QPR2 with new APIs and system enhancements

This upgrade brings additional Android 16 QPR2 features:

• Enhanced dark theme support
• Native lock screen widget support from third-party apps
• Improved haptic feedback controls
• PDF annotation and editing capabilities
• Advanced Protection support for USB 

Device Compatibility and Rollout

Both OneUI 8 and 8.5 will support the same device lineup, including:

• Galaxy S series (S22 and newer)
• Galaxy Z Fold and Flip devices (2022 models and newer)
• Galaxy A series mid-range devices
• Galaxy Tab series tablets

The OneUI 8.5 rollout timeline will depend on feature complexity, potentially taking up to two months after the Galaxy S26 launch for full deployment across eligible devices.

OneUI 8.5 represents a substantial evolution from OneUI 8, transforming Samsung's interface philosophy from minimalist flat design toward a more dimensional, AI-integrated experience. The update's emphasis on customization, visual depth, and intelligent automation positions it as one of Samsung's most significant interface updates in recent years.

[RIPA35]

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