List of Samsung phones and tablets that will not receive the One UI 8.5 update.
One UI 8.5, based on Android 16, brings many interface and security improvements; however, devices like the Galaxy S21 or Galaxy A14 will not receive this update.
Samsung is nearing the official release of One UI 8.5, the latest version of its user interface based on Android 16. The stable update is scheduled to launch alongside the Galaxy S26 flagship series later this month. While it brings many performance and feature improvements, a large number of older Galaxy devices will officially be discontinued on the current software version.
Galaxy devices are not eligible for the One UI 8.5 upgrade.
Although Samsung has expanded its software support policy to include newer models, many popular devices released several years ago will not be included in the list of devices receiving One UI 8.5. This list focuses on models that have completed a major operating system update cycle or do not meet the technical requirements of the new version.
Below are the Samsung devices that are not expected to receive the One UI 8.5 update:
- Galaxy S series:Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, Galaxy S21 Ultra, and older Galaxy S models.
- Galaxy Z series:Galaxy Z Fold 3, Galaxy Z Flip 3, and older Galaxy Z models.
- Galaxy A series:Galaxy A23, Galaxy A14, Galaxy A05, Galaxy A05s, and older Galaxy A models.
- Galaxy M series:Galaxy M14, Galaxy M05, and older Galaxy M models.
- Galaxy F series:Galaxy F14, Galaxy F05, and older Galaxy F models.
- Tablet and specialized device line:Galaxy Tab Active 4 Pro, older Galaxy Tab models, Galaxy XCover 6 Pro, and older Galaxy XCover models.
The appeal of the One UI 8.5 update based on Android 16.
Not being able to update to One UI 8.5 is a disappointment for users of the aforementioned devices, as this version includes many core changes. Unlike One UI 8, version 8.5 uses the newer Android 16 QPR2 development build, allowing Samsung to have deeper control over system-level features.
Visually, Samsung has refreshed the system app icons with subtle 3D effects, adding depth to the interface. The Quick Settings panel has been completely redesigned, allowing users to extensively customize the placement of buttons and sliders. Additionally, the lock screen is now smarter, automatically adjusting the clock position to avoid overlapping the wallpaper, and featuring new water effects and fonts.
Improved security and practical features.
Beyond its interface, One UI 8.5 also focuses on security features and user experience. Notably, it includes a partial screen recording mode, allowing users to record only the necessary area instead of the entire displayed content. The new security system will automatically lock the device when it detects unusual authentication patterns or intelligently block apps from sending spam ads via notifications.
The Photo Editing Assistant feature also received an upgrade, allowing users to perform continuous editing and photo creation without having to manually save each step. This optimizes the content creation process directly on mobile devices.
Overall, One UI 8.5 is a comprehensive and highly valuable upgrade. With the beta version successfully tested on the Galaxy S25, users of the supported models can expect a smooth experience when the Galaxy S26 series is officially launched.
