Samsung’s upcoming software release, One UI 8.5, may not be available for several popular Galaxy devices, including models launched in 2022, according to recent reports.
While the stable build of One UI 8.5 is now rolling out to eligible devices, concerns are growing that a large group of older Galaxy smartphones and tablets could be left out of the update cycle.
Galaxy S22 series among devices at risk
The biggest impact is expected on Samsung’s 2022 flagship lineup, including the Galaxy S22, S22 Plus, and S22 Ultra.
Other devices reportedly facing the same situation include:
- Galaxy S21 FE
- Galaxy A73, A53, A33
- Galaxy Z Fold 4
- Galaxy Z Flip 4
- Galaxy Tab S8 series
These devices were initially expected to receive additional software support, but newer information suggests One UI 8.5 compatibility may be limited.
Why some phones may be left behind
Samsung has historically provided mid-cycle updates to extend software support for devices that have already received their final major Android version.
However, One UI 8.5 is reportedly built on Android 16 QPR2, which includes deeper system-level changes, updated APIs, and significant platform modifications.
Because of this, devices only guaranteed updates up to Android 16 may struggle to support the new build.
Compatibility linked to Android 17 support
Reports suggest Samsung may be using a stricter eligibility rule: devices that are not compatible with Android 17 may also be excluded from One UI 8.5.
This shift would mark a change from previous update practices, where devices often received incremental One UI upgrades even after their major Android support ended.
There were earlier indications that Samsung was testing One UI 8.5 for devices like the Galaxy S22 series, with traces reportedly seen on internal servers.
However, no recent updates have surfaced since April, raising speculation that development for some older models may have been halted.
What this means for users
If confirmed, the move would mean that several still-popular Samsung devices could miss out on new features and system improvements introduced with One UI 8.5.
It would also signal a more aggressive shift in Samsung’s software support strategy, focusing updates on newer hardware optimized for the latest Android architecture.
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