One UI 8.5 to Be the Final Upgrade for these Samsung Devices

As the technology sector braces for the imminent launch of Samsung’s next-generation flagship, the Galaxy S26 series, later this month, a significant transition is looming for owners of the company’s legacy devices. Alongside the new hardware comes One UI 8.5, a software refresh based on Android 16 QPR2.

While software updates generally bring excitement, this specific release carries a bittersweet note for millions of users. For a long list of popular Galaxy devices, One UI 8.5 represents the final major feature update in their lifecycle.

End of an Era for Former Flagships

According to an analysis of Samsung’s software support cycles, the upcoming One UI 8.5 update signals the end of the road for devices that defined the Galaxy lineup just a few years ago.

Crucially, this means these models will not receive One UI 9 (expected in the second half of 2026) nor the future Android upgrades that will accompany it. While Samsung has not yet released an official “end-of-life” list, based on the company’s previous update policies, it is a virtual certainty that the following devices are entering their final phase of feature support:

Galaxy S Series:

• Galaxy S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra

• Galaxy S21 FE

Foldables:

• Galaxy Z Fold 4

• Galaxy Z Flip 4

Mid-Range (A & M Series):

• Galaxy A73 5G

• Galaxy A53

• Galaxy A33

• Galaxy M05

• Galaxy F14 / F05

Tablets and Rugged Devices:

• Galaxy Tab S8, S8+, and S8 Ultra

• Galaxy Tab A9 and A9+

• Galaxy XCover 6 Pro

What Does This Mean for You?

It is important to clarify that reaching the “end of feature updates” does not render a device obsolete.

Samsung will continue to provide security patches for these models for some time. Your device will remain safe for banking apps and general web browsing. However, it will be frozen in time regarding functionality—it will not receive the new AI tools, interface overhauls, or system-level features that Android 17 and One UI 9 will introduce later this year.

Is It Time to Upgrade?

For users who prioritize having the latest software capabilities, this transition serves as a nudge to consider an upgrade.

The landscape of software longevity has changed significantly since the release of the S22. Samsung’s newer flagship models now offer up to seven years of major OS updates, making modern devices a far more durable investment for the long term.

One UI 8.5 is expected to begin rolling out to these legacy devices shortly after the Galaxy S26 series hits the market.