Samsung’s Software Update One UI 8.5 Has Rolled Out – But Older Devices Show Non-Functional AI Features.
The South Korean tech giant has completed the rollout of its major update at the beginning of July 2026. Around 44 different Galaxy models received the new interface. However, the rollout leaves many older foldable phone users scratching their heads.
Phantom Features on the Galaxy Z Flip 5
Owners of the Galaxy Z Flip 5 are reporting a curious issue: after installing One UI 8.5, AI features that are not intended for this model suddenly appear in the settings. The specific features in question are Health Assist and Audio Eraser.
While these menu items are visible, they are not functional. Clicking on them leads to a dead end. Thankfully, Samsung has resolved the Health Assist issue with an update to the Samsung Health app (version 6.32). However, the reason for the appearance of the non-functional Audio Eraser remains a mystery: as of early July, investigations into the cause were still ongoing.
The company advises affected users to update all system apps and to reach out to customer support for ongoing issues.
What One UI 8.5 Can Really Do
The major update not only brought AI integration but also introduced tangible new features, including:
- Auracast: A walkie-talkie feature for immediate communication.
- Anti-Theft Security: Enhanced protection against theft or loss.
- Storage Share: New tools for data management across devices.
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The stable version was originally released alongside the launch of the Galaxy S26 series. So far, S23 to S25 models, Galaxy Z Fold models from the 5th generation onward, and numerous mid-range devices (A15 to A56, various M and F series) have received the update.
Looking Ahead: One UI 9 in Testing Phase
As One UI 8.5 becomes a thing of the past, Samsung is hard at work on its successor. One UI 9 is based on Android 17 and is currently in the beta stage. Since early July, the manufacturer has been testing the new software on an increasing number of devices, including the Galaxy S23 FE, Z Fold 6, as well as A-series models A37 and A57.
Among the expected new features are a TalkBack Merge function, Text Spotlight, and a system for detecting risky apps. The third beta for the Galaxy S26 was released on June 16, 2026, with nine specific software bugs reportedly fixed.
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Older foldable models like the Z Flip 6 and Fold 6 could receive a One UI 8.5 beta later this July. However, the spotlight will be on the successor: a final version of One UI 9 is expected for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 to be unveiled at the Unpacked event on July 22, 2026, in London.
