What One UI 8 reveals about the Galaxy S26 – including an aspect I hadn't thought of before.

      We are likely approaching the launch of Samsung’s flagship phone for 2026, and it would be surprising if it isn’t the Galaxy S26, even with the Galaxy S25 series from 2025 still performing strongly.

      A significant factor contributing to this is the introduction of the latest One UI, version 8, which was released in September. This version emphasizes AI features and offers a more customizable user interface.

      We have been exploring the OS for several months, and while version 8.5 is anticipated to debut with the next generation of smartphones, we have a solid understanding of potential hardware and software enhancements based on our experience with the current OS as well as leaks from upcoming One UI versions.

      Here’s a summary of what One UI 8 includes, how it relates to the Samsung Galaxy S26, and what may be involved in One UI 8.5.

      What does One UI 8 include?

      One UI 8 was launched in September 2025 and is centered on personalizing your phone with AI features and enhanced design customization.

      It remains based on Android 16, but Samsung has improved upon the One UI 7 interface. This update represents more of a revolution than an evolution, offering a sleek new appearance.

      Like many other companies, AI is a primary focus for Samsung (the company discusses it frequently), and while the typical rudimentary custom image generation is present, the introduction of Now Brief for S25 devices is a significant improvement.

      This feature highlights essential apps and processes based on how you use your phone daily, utilizing machine learning similar to what we've seen from other manufacturers. It’s promising to see this feature integrated into the existing lineup, and we can expect even more advancement with the upcoming generation.

      How significant is One UI 8.5?

      While Samsung has been keen on promoting One UI 8.0, there is a case to be made that 8.5 could actually be more impactful.

      This new version, likely launching alongside the Samsung Galaxy S26, is expected to introduce several innovative features, many of which are likely to be exclusive to the newer devices.

      Here’s what we might have gleaned from the forthcoming One UI updates, including new features for the Samsung Galaxy S26, covering aspects from camera functionality to improved charging and beyond.

      Now Nudge

      Now Brief could become even more robust on the Galaxy S26 Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

      Seemingly an extension of Now Brief, Now Nudges have been detected in One UI 8.5 beta versions and will likely expand on prior features.

      It will suggest automatic translations or responses, not based on the content of a message, but instead using contextual clues from what’s displayed on your screen. We will see how extensive this context understanding goes (Apple has struggled with similar Siri claims), but this could assist you in locating contact details when someone asks for a phone number or email, or in finding flight info buried in your emails.

      An unexpected privacy feature

      Here’s a surprise – the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra might introduce a noteworthy advancement in privacy.

      Flex Magic Pixel technology will reportedly adjust the screen’s viewing angles to make it more difficult for anyone not directly using the device to read what’s on the display. Leaks suggest this feature could automatically activate when you are in public settings like a coffee shop or on public transport, using algorithms to determine the best moment to employ this function.

      It is anticipated to be exclusive to the Ultra variant.

      Camera enhancements

      Prakhar Khanna / Digital Trends

      According to further reports, the Samsung Galaxy S26 is expected to bring significant advancements in camera capabilities.

      Text references indicate modes for Virtual Reality, Spatial, and 3D video will be incorporated, narrowing the gap with Apple’s spatial recording features.

      Also mentioned in initial leaks are LUT profiles for professional-level color adjustments in recorded video – a significant development for users who utilize their Samsung phones for filmmaking.

      Enhanced Connectivity

      While AI sometimes appears to be forced, this feature appears beneficial – we’ve all experienced the frustration when your phone doesn’t switch between Wi-Fi and cellular data promptly, but Intelligent Link Assessment and Intelligent Network Switch will utilize Galaxy AI to determine the optimal times for switching.

      If you have a weak Wi-Fi connection but a strong 5G signal, your device will know when to transition between the two.

      Additionally rumored is NFC file sharing through Quick Share, allowing for file and photo transfers by simply bringing devices together.

      Improved or smarter battery

      As noted last week, it seems the Galaxy S26 Ultra could feature even faster charging.

      A term “Super Fast Charging 3.0” appeared in Samsung’s code, along with a reference to “level 4,” which might elevate the manufacturer’s wired charging capabilities beyond 45W.

      Competitors are already providing charging speeds of 80W, 100W, or even 120W, so it’s reasonable to believe Samsung might aim to advance even further with its forthcoming devices.

      Display size considerations

      Reports indicate that the