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A Major Samsung One UI 8.5 Leak Reveals Key Galaxy Phone Upgrades
At Squaredtech, we follow every major development in Samsung’s software updates, and the recent One UI 8.5 leak is one of the most significant yet. While Samsung has not officially confirmed these features, a leaked firmware build gives us a clear preview of what Galaxy phone users can expect.
With Android 16-based One UI 8 still rolling out across Samsung’s ecosystem, attention has already shifted to One UI 8.5. This mid-cycle upgrade looks ready to deliver meaningful enhancements that improve privacy, usability, and accessibility, while also introducing fresh design elements.
Read More About Our Article of Samsung One UI 8.5 Leak Reveals Major Update for Galaxy Phones Published on September 20th, 2025 SquaredTech
we have carefully analyzed each of the eight new features spotted in the leaked build. Below, we expand on how these features work, why they matter, and what they mean for the future of Galaxy phones.
Privacy, Connectivity, and Smarter Tools in One UI 8.5
1. Private Display for Stronger Screen Privacy
One of the standout additions is a new Private Display feature. This tool limits visibility from side angles, ensuring only the person holding the device has a clear view of the screen. For people who often use their phones in public transport, coffee shops, or offices, this could be an essential privacy safeguard.
According to the leaked firmware, users will be able to choose between different levels of privacy, including a Maximum Privacy mode that dims the display even further. Early reports suggest the feature could debut on the Galaxy S26 Ultra, powered by Samsung’s experimental Flex Magic Pixel technology. This uses AI to adjust viewing angles by manipulating pixel visibility, making screen content far harder for prying eyes to see.
For business professionals, students, and frequent travelers, this feature may remove one of the biggest frustrations of mobile device use: the constant risk of shoulder surfing.
2. Automatic Call Screening with AI
Another significant addition to One UI 8.5 is automatic call screening. Currently, Galaxy phones rely on Bixby Text Call, which requires users to manually trigger call screening when an unknown number rings. With the upgrade, Samsung is expected to bring a Pixel-inspired solution that uses AI to automatically manage suspicious calls.
The leaked firmware shows the system can answer spam calls on behalf of the user, while displaying a live transcript of the conversation. This means users can instantly decide whether to take the call or ignore it, without lifting a finger.
For everyday users who face a flood of spam calls, this could represent a major time-saver and a powerful layer of protection. The manual Bixby Text Call option will remain for those who prefer to stay in control, but automatic screening will make Galaxy phones smarter and more secure.
3. NFC-Based Quick Share Transfers
Samsung’s Quick Share has long been the company’s answer to Apple’s AirDrop, and One UI 8.5 aims to make it even more convenient. The leak points to an NFC-based transfer option that allows users to initiate file sharing simply by holding two Galaxy devices close together.
This feature recalls the older Android Beam method, but with a major improvement: Quick Share relies on Wi-Fi Direct for fast transfers after the initial NFC handshake. Early strings of code suggest Samsung is also testing unique animations to accompany these transfers, giving the experience a visual polish.
If finalized, this could make Quick Share faster, more reliable, and more fun to use, especially for students, content creators, and professionals who frequently exchange large files.
4. Pollen Tracking Returns to Samsung Weather
For people who struggle with seasonal allergies, One UI 8.5 is expected to reintroduce pollen tracking inside the Samsung Weather app. This feature was once part of the platform but was quietly removed in past versions.
The new build suggests that Galaxy phones will again display pollen levels for trees, grass, and ragweed, represented by color-coded icons with severity levels such as None, Low, and Moderate. This small but meaningful update could help millions of users plan outdoor activities with better awareness of allergy triggers.
In addition, the Weather app will feature slightly updated navigation controls, improving overall usability while maintaining a modern design language.
Design, AI, and Accessibility Upgrades in One UI 8.5
5. New Launcher Shortcut for AI Agents
AI continues to define the smartphone experience, and Samsung appears to be preparing a new launcher shortcut for AI agents. This tool would give users direct access to AI-powered answers from the home screen.
Based on the code, responses will be capped at three sentences and written in a short, conversational style. Uniquely, Samsung will allow users to choose from multiple AI providers, including Gemini, Perplexity, and Samsung’s own Gauss.
This multi-AI approach sets Samsung apart from competitors, giving Galaxy users freedom to select the AI assistant that works best for their needs. From quick facts to conversational queries, this shortcut is a practical step toward deeper AI integration across devices.
6. iOS-Inspired Visual Design Tweaks
Samsung is also experimenting with iOS-inspired design changes. Leaked screenshots reveal more compact layouts in the Settings menu, with subtitle text removed from entries. The search bar has been shifted to the bottom of the display for easier reach, while containers now include subtle drop shadows and gradient edges.
The update also introduces a floating back button, which can hover over other interface elements. These tweaks align with recent design shifts in iOS 26, but still preserve Samsung’s distinct visual identity.
By freshening the user interface, One UI 8.5 could make Galaxy phones feel more modern, more ergonomic, and better suited for single-handed use.
7. Temporary Disable Option for Auto Blocker
Samsung’s Auto Blocker, introduced in One UI 6, prevents unauthorized apps and USB commands from running on Galaxy phones. While this adds an important security layer, it can frustrate advanced users who sideload apps or regularly connect their phones to PCs.
One UI 8.5 introduces a solution: the ability to temporarily disable Auto Blocker. According to the leak, users will be able to turn off Auto Blocker for up to 30 minutes, after which it reactivates automatically.
This strikes a balance between security and flexibility, allowing users to experiment or install third-party apps without permanently weakening device protection.
8. Protection Against Flashing Lights
Finally, One UI 8.5 is preparing a thoughtful accessibility upgrade: automatic protection against flashing lights. The system can detect rapid flashes in videos and dim the screen to reduce their impact.
This feature is particularly important for people with photosensitive epilepsy (PSE), who can be triggered by sudden flashing patterns. By proactively dimming the display, Samsung is making Galaxy phones more inclusive and safer for a broader range of users.
Even for users without PSE, this could reduce eye strain during late-night scrolling or while watching high-contrast video content.
What Squaredtech Thinks About the One UI 8.5 Leak
At Squaredtech, we believe the One UI 8.5 leak demonstrates Samsung’s commitment to refining its software in ways that address real user needs. While the jump from One UI 8 to One UI 8.5 is incremental, the features revealed so far carry meaningful value.
The combination of stronger privacy controls, smarter call management, NFC-powered transfers, and inclusive accessibility tools makes this update more than cosmetic. Samsung’s willingness to experiment with AI shortcuts and iOS-style design elements shows that the company is closely studying user expectations while still delivering its own vision.
Of course, it is important to note that Samsung has not officially announced these changes. Features may evolve, or some may be delayed to a later release. Still, based on the evidence in the leaked firmware, One UI 8.5 looks like a substantial upgrade that will benefit both casual users and power users alike.
Conclusion: One UI 8.5 Could Redefine the Galaxy Experience
The eight features discovered in the One UI 8.5 leak highlight Samsung’s strategy of balancing privacy, usability, AI integration, and design improvements. For Galaxy users, this update could bring meaningful changes that reshape everyday interactions with their phones.
From the Private Display that keeps screens secure in public, to AI-driven call screening and Quick Share improvements, Samsung is addressing real-world problems. Add to that pollen tracking, temporary Auto Blocker controls, and accessibility protections, and the result is a software upgrade that feels both practical and user-centered.
As always, Squaredtech will continue monitoring developments and testing features as they appear. With the Galaxy S26 series expected in early 2026, One UI 8.5 could be the software foundation that defines Samsung’s next wave of mobile devices.
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