Samsung is quietly advancing software development for its highly anticipated Galaxy S26 Ultra flagship, with new firmware spotted confirming the device will launch running One UI 8.5 based on Android 16. This marks the first official confirmation of One UI 8.5, a significant update promising new features and performance improvements for Samsung’s flagship lineup.
Earlier suspicions about the firmware surfaced when the initial Galaxy S26 Ultra firmware was found on Samsung’s server with version number S948USQU0AYG8, but it lacked explicit confirmation of the One UI version. However, SamMobile recently received the first official firmware files confirming One UI 8.5 alongside the latest Android 16 foundation.
One UI 8.5 appears to be Samsung’s strategy to better align its software update cycle with Google’s new faster Android release timetable, which now shifts major Android version launches to mid-year. Samsung is reportedly planning to reserve full One UI “major version” upgrades primarily for its foldable Galaxy Z series, releasing incremental “x.5” updates like One UI 8.5 for flagship Galaxy S phones to introduce major refinements and enhancements.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra itself is rumored to bring several hardware upgrades including improvements to its display quality, potential faster charging options (though rumors remain mixed), and a fresh design look compared to its predecessor. The launch is expected in early 2026, setting the stage for a showdown with Apple’s iPhone 17 series launching this fall.
Samsung users can look forward to visual redesigns, better battery optimization, faster update deliveries, and new AI-powered features in One UI 8.5. With Samsung already testing firmware, the company seems intent on delivering polished software timed perfectly with the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s release.
Overall, One UI 8.5 combined with the S26 Ultra’s hardware advancements could make for a compelling flagship experience, reinforcing Samsung’s position in the 2026 premium smartphone market.