One UI 8.5 beta review: Lots to like, a few things still need work

Samsung’s One UI 8.5 beta program for the Galaxy S25 series is now in full swing. While the firmware isn’t finalized yet, it’s clearly starting to take shape. We’ve spent plenty of time with pre-release One UI 8.5 builds, and we’re ready to break down some of our favorite changes in a new review video.

Even though One UI 8.5 isn’t ready for a wider rollout just yet, we already have a solid sense of what works well and what still needs refinement. Check out our video and quick summary below.

Our latest One UI 8.5 review video highlights several key areas, including:

New visual design language

Improved one-handed usability

Enhanced quick panel customization

Camera changes and refinements

Samsung DeX productivity upgrades

Improved Generative Edit

Smarter video editing tools

We also touch on a few notable missing or unfinished features that are still being worked on during the beta phase.

We’ll continue tracking Samsung’s progress with One UI 8.5 and will keep you updated as the software moves closer to its final release. Don't forget to subscribe to SamMobile on YouTube if you enjoy our video content.

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Mihai Matei - Senior Editor

[email protected]

First Samsung device: SGH-A800

Mihai is a blogger and column writer at SamMobile. His first Samsung phone was an A800 which took a lot of beating, and a part of him still misses the novelty of the clamshell design. In his free time, he enjoys watching shows, documentaries, and stand-up comedy; listening to music, taking walks, and occasionally playing old(er) video games.

Firmware Android 16 One UI 8.5

One UI 8.5 beta firmware review: Lots to like, a few things still need work

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Mihai Matei - Senior Editor

[email protected]

First Samsung device: SGH-A800