Samsung Releases Free One UI 8.5 Upgrade To Millions Of Galaxy Phones

InnovationConsumer TechSamsung Releases Free One UI 8.5 Upgrade To Millions Of Galaxy PhonesByJanhoi McGregor,Senior Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Janhoi McGregor (jan-eye) is a reporter who covers technology news.Follow AuthorMay 21, 2026, 05:07pm EDTMay 21, 2026, 05:07pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.After officially releasing One UI 8.5 to Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S24 phones, which included a suite of advanced new AI tools, Samsung is now rolling out the update to older flagships and midrange Galaxy phones globally, but they won’t receive all of the AI features that launched with the Galaxy S26. Read on for more and don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter for instant deal updates and Samsung news.Samsung's One UI 8.5 Releases To New Phones In More CountriesThe Galaxy S23 Ultra will receive the new One UI 8.5 update today. (Photo by Joan Cros/NurPhoto via Getty Images)NurPhoto via Getty ImagesSamsung began rolling out One UI 8.5, which is its latest software update built on Android 16, on May 6th in South Korea, starting with the Galaxy S26 series. The global rollout expanded on May 11th, initially reaching the Galaxy S25 series and the latest foldables. The Galaxy S24 series followed shortly after.Today marks the third major wave, with the update landing on older and cheaper Galaxy phones globally. Galaxy S23 users in Germany, Pakistan, Portugal and Spain are reporting that they’ve received the update. Meanwhile Galaxy A56 owners in South Africa, Norway, Egypt and other countries are also getting the update.MORE FOR YOUTo check if One UI 8.5 is available on your device, go to Settings and then Software Update.Which Phones Will Receive The One UI 8.5 Update Today?Today’s wave includes the Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23 Plus, Galaxy S23 Ultra, Galaxy A56, and Galaxy A36. The Galaxy S23 FE is expected to follow soon. if (!...