Samsung Unveils One UI 8.5 Beta with Liquid Glass Design Influences

Samsung has officially launched the beta program for its latest software iteration, One UI 8.5. The initial preview indicates a marked influence from Apple’s Liquid Glass aesthetic, which is reflected in various design elements across the user interface.

Design Innovations in One UI 8.5

One UI 8.5 is being positioned as one of Samsung’s most visually appealing software versions to date. It introduces a lighter and more fluid design, featuring floating controls, softened visuals, and enhanced transparency across several first-party applications. The new floating back button, now visible in the Settings app and other system applications, exemplifies this shift toward a more refined design philosophy.

In addition to the floating back button, Samsung has revamped navigation elements within its official apps. For instance, rounded floating bars can now be found in the dialer, which enhances the sense of separation from the background while preserving a clear and readable layout. This design language is also being extended to other applications; the Gallery app, for example, now showcases a subtle transparency effect that contributes to a modern aesthetic.

User Experience and Feedback

Notably, the Calculator app has undergone significant changes, adopting raised buttons that mimic the pop-up tap appearance reminiscent of Apple’s Liquid Glass. Samsung has opted for a controlled use of 3D effects, ensuring that high transparency does not compromise readability. The focus remains on subtle visual enhancements that add depth without overwhelming users.

While the innovative design direction has garnered praise from some users, reactions have been mixed. Critics have expressed concerns about the widening aesthetic gap between Samsung’s interface and Google’s Material 3 Expressive design guidelines. This feedback highlights the challenges Samsung faces in aligning its design approach with industry standards while still making its own mark.

The full rollout of One UI 8.5 is anticipated to commence in 2026, initially targeting the Galaxy S26 series. As Samsung continues to refine its software, the balance between innovation and usability will remain a focal point for both the company and its users.