The first version of the One UI 8.5 update was leaked last September, and many recent leaks about Galaxy S26 features are based on this version.
Recently, the full history of the new update revealed the highlights of the upcoming features, including improved power management, Auracast support, new security features, a time zone calculator, and an improved weather widget with rain alerts.
Smart features include improvements to Galaxy AI, as Photo Assist can generate photos with artificial intelligence without having to save each copy, and Bixby has become smarter in controlling the device and answering questions with the ability to review conversation history.
In terms of connectivity, the update will provide easy sharing of files across devices, Smart View support for screen mirrors on TV and other Samsung devices, in addition to improvements in Quick Share with the suggestion of sharing photos with the people in them.
The updates also include customization of the lock interface and home screen, improvements to the weather widget with display of pollen levels, alarm settings with weather wallpaper, in addition to new features in Samsung Health such as comprehensive weekly reports, sharing exercises, starting meditations directly from the watch, and measuring antioxidants.
On the security front, One UI 8.5 offers anti-theft protection with auto lock on failed attempts, and temporary options to disable Auto Blocker. As for the battery, it got an improved information screen and a customizable power saving mode, while it included easy control of Bluetooth hearing devices and options to enlarge the screen using the mouse or keyboard.
You can now record a specific portion of the screen, add customizable quick shortcuts, snap notifications for reminders, and save app window sizes in DeX when you reopen them.
