One UI 8.5 Will Fix One of the Biggest Headaches of iPhone to Galaxy Transfers

Switching from an iPhone to a Samsung Galaxy phone could soon be much simpler. For years, moving your eSIM between platforms has required a call, an email, or some sort of communication with the carrier, which is frankly an unnecessary step. That looks set to change with the One UI 8.5 update which will officially debut with the Galaxy S26 series early next year.

One UI 8.5 will make it easier to transfer an eSIM from iPhone to Galaxy!

Android Authority has spotted references suggesting that the One UI 8.5 update will let users transfer an eSIM from an iPhone directly to a Samsung device without having to contact their carrier. The new setup separates the “transfer from another phone” option into two buttons: one for Android devices and one specifically for iPhones. A string in the code confirms it: <string name=”esim_add_d2d_xos_transfer”>Transfer SIM from iPhone</string>

Right now in the US, eSIM transfers from iPhones to Android phones officially only work on Pixel devices with Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Based on that, Samsung’s feature will probably come with similar carrier limits. We’ll likely know more either when the One UI 8.5 update rolls out or during the Galaxy S26 launch keynote.

The main benefit I see is that it could help a lot of users, especially those switching from an iPhone to a Galaxy. Making the process smoother is the right move. When One UI 8.5 makes the eSIM transfer easier, it will directly help people who aren’t necessarily that tech-savvy.

Moreover, the One UI 8.5 beta will reportedly roll out next month during the last week of November, for a handful of devices. Galaxy S25, Z Fold 7, and Z Flip 7 are strong contenders. Whether this iPhone eSIM transfer feature actually makes it into the beta is still up in the air. Whatever happens, we’ll keep you posted.