Samsung's upcoming One UI 8.5 update, based on Android 16, is set to bring significant enhancements to Galaxy smartphones. Scheduled for release alongside the Galaxy S26 series in early 2026, this update focuses on AI integration, user interface customization, and improved accessibility.

1. AI-Powered Notification Management

One UI 8.5 introduces an AI notification summary feature, providing concise previews of long messages directly in the notification panel. This tool supports English and Korean, allowing users to select specific apps for summarized notifications. Additionally, a priority notifications system ensures critical alerts appear at the top of the list for easier visibility. Both features can be customized within app-specific settings.

2. Fully Customizable Quick Settings Panel

The quick settings panel in One UI 8.5 undergoes a significant redesign, becoming fully customizable. Users can now move, remove, or rearrange toggles and widgets to suit their preferences, offering a more personalized and efficient user experience. This change represents one of the most substantial design updates to the feature in recent years.

3. Automatic Call Screening with AI

Samsung enhances its call management with an automatic call screening feature in One UI 8.5. Leveraging AI, Galaxy phones can now automatically handle suspicious calls and provide live transcripts of the conversation. This feature aims to reduce spam and unwanted calls, allowing users to decide whether to answer or ignore them without manual intervention.

These updates reflect Samsung's commitment to enhancing user experience through intelligent features and customization options. The full rollout of One UI 8.5 is anticipated to begin in early 2026, starting with the Galaxy S26 series.