The finish line is in sight for Samsung’s latest software journey. As we approach the official launch of the Galaxy S26 series next week, the company has started rolling out a new beta software for the current flagship family. This update, known as One UI 8.5 Beta 5 in global markets (and Beta 4 in India), is now available for the Samsung Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, and Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Samsung rolls out One UI 8.5 beta 5 with new Bixby improvements
The latest update has a firmware version ending in ZZAN. It’s relatively small, weighing in at around 553 MB. This release comes with the most recent security patch (February 5, 2026). The official changelog does say that there is one specific improvement, though: the Bixby version has been updated.
When Samsung releases an update that is so focused, it usually means they are fixing a serious bug or getting ready for a big change in service. Bixby is the main focus in this case. This version update suggests that the new, AI-powered Bixby, which is said to work with Perplexity, is almost ready to reach the public.
The timing of this beta is no coincidence. Samsung will unveil the Galaxy S26 series on February 25, 2026. Industry experts expect One UI 8.5 to launch alongside these new flagships, with the stable version likely reaching older eligible devices shortly after. If the current rumors hold true, the general public could see the official rollout begin as early as March 11. This should coincide with the new phones hitting store shelves.
For enthusiasts currently enrolled in the beta program, this update represents the -likely- final step toward stability. Plus, it completes the refinement of the improved capabilities of the Bixby AI assistant. Could we be looking at a worthy competitor to Google Gemini on phones? After all, unlike third-party assistants, Samsung will integrate Bixby deeply at the system level. This will give it capabilities that only Gemini on Android could access.
If you own a Galaxy S25, S25+, or S25 Ultra and are part of the beta program, you can find the update by heading to your device settings. For everyone else, the wait for the stable, refined version of Android 16 QPR2 is almost over.
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