Samsung has reportedly halted the rollout of its One UI 8.0 update for the Galaxy S23 series shortly after it began. Despite the sudden stop, development appears to have already shifted to the next version, One UI 8.5, leaving many users who never received the initial update without an explanation from the company.

Samsung is already testing One UI 8.5 for the S23 series, even with One UI 8 suspended. Tipster Tarun Vats reports a new firmware (S918BXXU9FYJ3) for the S23 Ultra, confirming the next version is in the works.

The appearance of this firmware indicates the commencement of internal development and testing for One UI 8.5 on the Galaxy S23 series. This confirms the project’s progression within Samsung, though its early development status suggests a significant timeline remains before any form of public deployment.

In accordance with reports, One UI 8.5 will bring AI features, performance upgrades, and better customization options to make Galaxy devices more user-friendly. Samsung hasn’t confirmed this yet.

According to earlier reports, Samsung’s strategy is to introduce One UI 8.5 in conjunction with the Galaxy S26 series launch next year. The new OS will be a key feature of the upcoming flagships, with a broader deployment to legacy devices, such as the Galaxy S23 family, scheduled for a later date.

While a postponed Galaxy S26 debut might result in a longer wait for the final One UI 8.5 build, Samsung is still expected to initiate its Beta Program for the update around November 2025, allowing enthusiasts early access.

Samsung’s move to early testing makes one thing clear: One UI 8.5 is no longer just a plan, but a project in active development. We’ll be keeping a close watch for new information.

Samsung has released a Camera Assistant update that reinstates the 3D capture feature. The release coincides with the launch of the Galaxy XR headset, enabling users to capture and view their own 3D content.

Get smarter, more professional photos without the hassle. The Camera Assistant app enhances your phone’s built-in camera with features that automatically pick the right lens for every shot and significantly reduce grain in low-light conditions.

This update reinstates the 3D capture feature, enabling 4K/30fps video and photos. Originally added in v4.0.00.3 and later removed, its return addresses user feedback.

At present, with the release of the Galaxy XR headset, Samsung has reintroduced it. The 3D capture feature is designed to work perfectly with the Galaxy XR for an immersive viewing experience.

The computational demands of 3D capture limit its availability to newer Samsung devices equipped with high-end processors, such as the Galaxy S25, Z Fold 7, and Z Flip 7.

Samsung Camera Assistant

If you have a supported model, simply open the Galaxy Store and search for the Camera Assistant update. As the release is gradual, you may need to check back in a day or two if it’s not there immediately.

We’ve secured a special offer for our readers interested in the Galaxy XR! When you purchase the headset using our affiliate link, Samsung will provide you with a $50 Amazon gift card and a $25 Google Play gift card.

Samsung is crafting a more seamless mobile experience with One UI 8.5. Leaks and early tests point to a suite of user-centric enhancements that will simplify daily tasks and elevate overall functionality on your Galaxy device.

Imagine your Samsung phone, but smarter, sleeker, and effortlessly efficient. That’s the promise of One UI 8.5. The moment it arrives, these 5 features will be the ones that make you wonder how you ever lived without them.

Samsung’s One UI 8.5 Features:

Customizable Control Panel:

With One UI 8.5, customize your quick settings down to the last detail. Drag and drop toggles, add what you love, and remove what you don’t. Your most important tools are now just a swipe away, exactly where you want them.

Redesigned Apps for a Cleaner Look:

Samsung is focusing on clarity and ease with the One UI 8.5 update. Early builds show a clear mission: to declutter and modernize. Apps you use daily, like Phone and Gallery, now boast cleaner interfaces and more intuitive layouts, transforming your interaction from a task into a seamless pleasure.

Enhanced Samsung DeX:

Samsung DeX’s new virtual desktops eliminate the chaos of a single screen. Now, with up to four distinct workspaces, you can keep your projects neatly separated. Switch from a focused writing space to a research hub instantly, making multitasking seamless and organized.

One UI 8.5

Direct Voicemail:

One UI 8.5 solves a common frustration with its new Direct Voicemail feature. Now, when you can’t answer, callers can leave a message you can easily access. You can even customize the ring time before a call goes straight to voicemail, giving you complete control.

AI-Powered Image Editing:

One UI 8.5 is supercharging Galaxy AI, particularly for your photos. The new enhancements let you magically remove unwanted objects or people from your pictures with just a tap, making complex edits incredibly simple and your photos instantly better.

This is just a glimpse of what makes One UI 8.5 such an anticipated update. Samsung fans can look forward to its full reveal alongside the next Galaxy S series, with a beta likely giving us our first hands-on look by November 2025.