While the stable One UI 8.5 update, which Samsung started rolling out on May 6, 2026, continues to offer new features for contemporary Galaxy devices, it has become clear that older models will be deprived of this upgrade. In line with the new strategy followed by Samsung, many popular Galaxy phones and tablets released in 2022 and earlier will not receive the One UI 8.5 update, although they are based on Android 16.

While this situation created a significant disappointment, especially for Galaxy S22 series and foldable device users, technology giant Samsung’s limitations in software support came to the fore once again.

Which Models Are Excluded from the Scope of Update?

Samsung’s official statements and leaked test data show that the update pool has narrowed considerably. In particular, Galaxy S22, S22+, S22 Ultra, Galaxy S21 FE, Galaxy A73, A53 and A33 models are at the top of this list. In addition, pioneering devices of the foldable technology world such as Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4 and the Galaxy Tab S8 series will not benefit from the new software package.

For owners of older devices, the software availability is nearing its end.

Technical Reasons for Update Restriction Explained

Users were right to wait for the One UI 8.5 update since their devices were already running the Android 16 operating system. However, Samsung built the One UI 8.5 version on the QPR2 branch of Android 16, which includes more advanced and technical changes.

This build includes new APIs and deep code changes that older hardware cannot support. For this reason, the company chose to exclude older models from the update to avoid compatibility issues.

Support Process Appears to be Officially Completed

From a technical perspective, Samsung’s decision actually coincides with its commitment to providing software support to its devices. The Galaxy S22 series was promised four major Android upgrades when it was launched with Android 12. In this case, Android 16 was determined as the final point for these devices. The company states that it does not have to bring subsequent developments of the One UI interface to older hardware, even if the operating system version remains the same.

Due to technical difficulties, the optimization process became quite complex.

Users React to Uncertainty

Samsung is actually closing a period by depriving its users of new interface features. Major interface updates other than security patches are no longer an expectation for 2022 model devices. This shows that users will need to switch to new devices in the future.

Is the Galaxy device you are using included in this update list? You can share your opinions about Samsung’s update policy and whether you are happy with the performance of your device in the comments section below.