Seoul / San Francisco: Galaxy owners may soon have cause to celebrate, as a new report suggests that Samsung is finally catching up to Google’s rapid Pixel update pace. Firmware build leaks indicate that Samsung’s upcoming One UI 8.5 update is based on Android 16 QPR2, signaling the South Korean giant’s potential adoption of Google’s Quarterly Platform Release (QPR) schedule to deliver features faster.
Adopting Google’s Cadence
This strategic shift, if confirmed, would enable Galaxy phones to receive important Android features on a quarterly basis instead of delaying them until the next major annual OS release.
Historically, Samsung has lagged behind Google in the frequency of software updates. Owners of flagship handsets like the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy Z Fold 7 often found themselves waiting months for features already available to Pixel users. Samsung traditionally combined QPR features into a single, larger annual update, effectively delaying timely access to new capabilities.
By potentially adopting Google’s approach, perhaps utilizing the Trunk Stable model, Samsung can streamline its software delivery process, ensuring more timely updates for its vast user base.
Implications for Galaxy Owners
This reported change is excellent news for Galaxy owners, promising faster access to new features and crucial security enhancements. Users can look forward to accessing interface improvements, media enhancements (including AAudio APIs, an HDR/SDR brightness slider, and personal audio sharing), and improved privacy protection much sooner than before.
While the details of the One UI 8.5 update are yet to be officially confirmed by Samsung, the signs are positive. The update is rumored to include a feature to protect sensitive data in shared images, enhanced flashlight functionality, and new AI-powered notifications.
We await official announcements in the coming weeks to confirm this major potential change in Samsung’s software strategy.
