New One UI 8.5 update doesn't mean new features. | Image by PhoneArena
While Galaxy S25 users are awaiting a stable One UI 8.5 release in the imminent future and have already received multiple Galaxy S26 features, the same can't be said for those owning an S23.
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One UI 8.5 Beta hits Galaxy S23
On April 9, Samsung expanded its One UI 8.5 Beta program, including older flagships in the new software 'party.' The Galaxy S23 lineup and Galaxy S23 FE were among those to try out the build upon registering through the Samsung Members app.
Galaxy S23 Series gets One UI 8.5 beta 2 update in India
On April 27, a second beta patch was spotted for Galaxy S23 models by renowned leaker Tarun Vats. The build version S918BXXU9ZZDP has been released in India and South Korea, with global rollouts expected soon.
Users should keep in mind that it's impossible to jump aboard the 'test train' on Beta 2. That is, the new update can only be downloaded by those who signed up for the first One UI 8.5 Beta.
How often do you change your smartphone?
What's fixed
The latest One UI 8.5 Beta update fixes several known issues on Galaxy S23 models. Firstly, the 'black screen' issue that happens during an incoming call has been addressed. The proximity release behavior during calls has also been tackled.
Getting bugs fixed could improve your Galaxy S23 Ultra experience. | Image by PhoneArena
Moreover, the One UI 8.5 Beta 2 fixes green lines in 4K HDR videos on some camera apps. Bluetooth stability has been improved in order to prevent sudden crashes. In addition, Samsung has addressed the multi-touch issue, which could occur when some accessibility settings are enabled, delivering a more reliable touch response.
Missing features
In this One UI 8.5 Beta build, Galaxy S23 users don't get any S26 features. In essence, this update only fixes some bugs without adding some of the best AI features Samsung has ever released.
Not quite the One UI 8.5 experience you get on the Galaxy S26 Ultra, though. | Image by PhoneArena
Now Nudge, Now Brief and multiple other AI-powered features also appear to be missing. Essentially, while Samsung is bringing the Galaxy S23 into the modern era, it's keeping the device 'old' by excluding some of the most contemporary features.
What's the point, honestly?
I don't know about you, but paying $1,000 for a phone with a promise of Android updates for several years sounds like a pact to me. But then, Samsung appears as though it's already detaching from the Galaxy S23 lineup.
Now, the series should only get OS updates up to Android 17. And yet, we haven't seen a stable Android 17 build, let alone a Samsung One UI based on the latest Android version. So, technically, the device should still get all the latest features.
Don't get me wrong: getting known bugs fixed is crucial. I'm also not saying that Samsung deliberately excluded the Galaxy S23. It's quite possible that the hardware just can't support the on-device AI capabilities of the S26.
Nevertheless, being invited to try out the latest software only to find out you're essentially being left out feels a bit disappointing.
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Polina Kovalakova, a News and Affiliate Content Writer, has nurtured a passion for mobile technology since the era before smartphones. With a history of exploring a variety of devices, her insights into the mobile world are both broad and nuanced. Polina's non-partisan view extends to appreciating nearly every smartphone brand, a reflection of her open-minded approach to technology. Polina is equally passionate about uncovering the best online deals, tirelessly working to ensure her readers snag top-tier tech at unbeatable prices.
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