Samsung is lining up a major software push that stretches beyond a simple interface refresh. The company is preparing One UI 9 on top of Android 17 while also extending AI features linked to the Galaxy S26 to the Galaxy S25 through One UI 8.5.
That move matters because it suggests Samsung is treating software as a long-term advantage for the Galaxy lineup. Instead of keeping the most advanced AI tools locked to newer hardware, the company appears ready to spread them across more devices in the ecosystem.
AI features expected to reach Galaxy S25
Samsung is said to have confirmed that AI capabilities associated with the Galaxy S26 will also arrive on the Galaxy S25 through the One UI 8.5 update. For users, that means flagship-level features may not be limited to only the newest model.
Among the features expected to appear are AI-based Call Screening, Creative Studio, improvements to Audio Eraser, and Photo Assist. Samsung is also preparing Agentic AI, AI ISP, and tighter Bixby integration to support everyday tasks on the flagship device.
The direction is important because it shows a broader software strategy. By expanding access to these tools, Samsung keeps the Galaxy S25 more competitive without forcing an immediate device upgrade.
One UI 9 already in development
At the same time, Samsung has begun working on One UI 9, which is based on Android 17. The new system is expected to bring changes that go beyond visual refinement and into functions that users can feel in daily use.
One of the features mentioned is Tap to Share, which allows data to be sent by bringing devices close together. The function is designed to work in a similar way to NameDrop and is intended to make sharing faster and more practical.
Samsung is also preparing a Warranty and Care menu inside Settings. In addition, the company is reportedly adding accessibility improvements through Select to Speak and Text Spotlight, helping the interface feel more inclusive.
Expected reach across the Galaxy lineup
Reports from inet.detik.com indicate that One UI 9 is expected to reach a wide range of Galaxy devices across the S, Z, A, and Tab series. The scope includes both flagship and midrange models, showing that Samsung continues to distribute software updates broadly.
Estimated devices that may receive the update include:
| Series | Estimated models |
|---|---|
| Galaxy S | S26 Series, S25 Series, S24 Series, S23 Series |
| Galaxy Z | Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7, Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6, Z Fold 5, Z Flip 5 |
| Galaxy A | A57, A37, A17, A07, A56, A36, A26, A16, A06, A55, A35, A25, A54, A34, A24 |
| Galaxy Tab | Tab S11 Series, Tab S10 Series, Tab S9 Series, Tab A11 Series |
That wide coverage suggests Samsung still views software support as a central part of the Galaxy experience. It also helps extend the usable life of devices already in the market.
One UI 8.5 beta has already started
Before One UI 9 arrives, Samsung has already rolled out the One UI 8.5 beta for eight devices in South Korea and India. According to samsungmagazine.eu, the program began on Monday, April 13, 2026, and includes newer foldables as well as midrange phones such as the Galaxy A35 and Galaxy A55.
The beta is also available through the Samsung Members app in selected regions, including South Korea, Germany, Poland, the United Kingdom, India, and the United States. Users outside those markets will likely have to wait for the stable release before trying the update.
With One UI 9 now in development and Galaxy S26-related AI features moving toward the Galaxy S25, Samsung appears to be keeping its software roadmap tightly linked to long-term ecosystem support.