Samsung is currently testing its new One UI 8.5, which will debut with the upcoming Galaxy S26 phones. This new version brings hints of a fresh design that some are saying resembles Apple’s Liquid Glass style.
A developer recently managed to install an early version of One UI 8.5 on a Galaxy S21+. Though the details we have are limited—mostly images of the settings menu—we can see some interesting changes. The AI-powered search bar now floats above the menu, and there’s also a permanent search bar at the bottom of the main page. The settings screen has also been tidied up, with the back button now floating in its own space rather than bundled in the header.
While these tweaks seem minor, they create a vibe reminiscent of Apple’s design. Twitter user DalgleishGX noted that the new settings layout mirrors features in iOS 26, particularly with the floating search and back buttons. Although Samsung hasn’t adopted the reflective look of Liquid Glass, the design similarities are clear.
It’s worth mentioning that some users feel uneasy about Samsung borrowing from Apple. However, such early changes could evolve into something more aligned with Google’s Material 3 design when One UI 8.5 is fully rolled out.
According to recent data, many consumers value a clean, intuitive user interface. A survey from the UX Design Institute found that 70% of users prefer a simple layout over complex designs, suggesting Samsung might be on to something. The launch of One UI 8.5 will be pivotal for Samsung, especially as competition heats up in the smartphone market.
As we await this new update, the real question is whether these design changes will appeal to users or if they’ll be seen as an unnecessary imitation. Time will tell how One UI 8.5 will shape user experience when it arrives next year alongside the Galaxy S26.
For more insights on design trends in tech, check out resources like Nielsen Norman Group, a leading authority on user experience and design.
