One UI 8.5 is coming to the Galaxy S23, but it could leave the best features behind
Source: Android Authority
TL;DR
- Samsung is preparing a stable One UI 8.5 update for the Galaxy S23 series after multiple beta builds.
- The catch: several newer Galaxy AI features from the upcoming Galaxy S26 series may not be included, according to a recent leak.
Update Overview
Samsung appears to be finally delivering a significant software update to the Galaxy S23 lineup after a few rounds of One UI 8.5 beta builds. The stable update is expected to bring a range of improvements and new features to the devices that launched in early 2023.
Potential Missing Features
A leak from Tarun Vats on X suggests that while Samsung is working on the stable One UI 8.5 update for the S23 series, some of the latest Galaxy AI features introduced with the Galaxy S26 may be omitted:
- Call Screening
- Creative Studio
- AI Audio Eraser (improved version)
- Notification Highlights
- Now Nudges
Source: Tarun Vats on X
Additional reference: Android Authority – Stable One UI 8.5 leak
Why These Features Might Be Omitted
Many of the new AI capabilities rely on updated hardware, such as more powerful neural processing units (NPUs) and on‑device machine‑learning models. While the S23 series remains capable, it may not meet the hardware requirements for the latest AI functions. Samsung could also be strategically reserving these features for newer flagship devices to encourage upgrades.
Overall Impact
Even without the newest AI tools, the One UI 8.5 update is still a noteworthy refresh for the S23 series, which would otherwise be limited to basic maintenance updates at this stage of its lifecycle. The update aims to keep older flagship phones feeling current for a longer period, which is beneficial for users who plan to keep their devices.
Whether the omission is due to hardware constraints or a business decision to boost S26 sales, S23 owners should temper expectations regarding AI‑focused enhancements. The leaked changelog could still evolve, and Samsung might add some missing features before the final release, but it’s prudent not to count on them.