Samsung Hasn’t Abandoned Bixby, Prepares One UI 8.5 Update

Samsung’s foray into next-generation AI has shifted attention to Google Gemini and other third-party assistants, but the company isn’t abandoning its in-house Bixby. While Gemini now takes default status on new Galaxy flagships, Bixby continues to receive interface and feature improvements. One UI 8.5 may now bring another round of upgrades to Samsung’s AI assistant.

One UI 8.5 revamps Bixby, but the new features remain under wraps

The upcoming One UI 8.5 update promises a major refinement of Samsung’s interface, with deeper AI integration across the system, including Bixby. Leaked internal build reveals a redesigned Bixby pop-up bar, which you can see below. This aligns with the updated design language seen throughout One UI 8.5.

We previously spotted deeper Bixby integrations into Modes and Routines in One UI 8.5. Unfortunately, we still do not know much about Bixby upgrades beyond aesthetics. Performance has historically been its weak spot, often lagging behind Google Assistant in speed, accuracy, and versatility. With Gemini’s LLM-powered capabilities, that gap has widened further.

Gemini is now the default assistant on new Galaxy devices, benefiting from deep integration with Samsung apps such as Calendar, Notes, and Reminders. However, Bixby isn’t being abandoned. Regular updates continue to bring conversational improvements, enhanced context awareness, and stronger system hooks. In select markets, particularly China, Bixby even offers advanced features powered by large language models.

It remains to be seen how One UI 8.5 improves Bixby. Perhaps Gemini will lead for generative and voice-first tasks, while Bixby focuses on system automation and ecosystem control. The redesigned pop-up bar is just the start; incremental updates show Samsung’s commitment to keeping Bixby relevant.

Even if it’s no longer the centerpiece of AI on Galaxy devices, Bixby may evolve into a quietly indispensable assistant within Samsung’s ecosystem. One UI 8.5 will debut with the Galaxy S26 series early in 2026. Samsung may launch beta programs later this year.