A major firmware leak has reportedly revealed Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S26 series, providing the most credible early look yet at both the hardware and the new One UI 8.5 software that will launch alongside it. The leak allegedly comes from an internal test build and includes references to the codename “Miracle,” with the models labeled as M1 (Galaxy S26), M2 (S26+), and M3 (S26 Ultra).
Refined Design: A Unified Flagship Aesthetic
Based on early renders discovered in the One UI 8.5 firmware, Samsung appears to be shifting toward a more cohesive design across its flagship lineup.
- Unified Style Across Models: The Galaxy S26, S26+, and S26 Ultra are expected to adopt a shared aesthetic similar to the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 7, suggesting Samsung wants consistency between foldables and slab phones.
- Updated Camera Layout: Instead of the floating camera lenses used in recent Galaxy S models, the S26 and S26+ will feature circular lenses mounted on a slightly raised vertical camera island.
- S26 Ultra Camera System: The Ultra model keeps the redesigned island but includes two additional sensors, maintaining its premium imaging identity.
- Softer Design Language: The S26 Ultra will reportedly feature a rounder, less boxy frame than its predecessors, improving comfort and grip based on user feedback.
The firmware also hints at Super Fast Charging 3.0 and upgraded Super Fast Wireless Charging, indicating noticeably improved charging speeds.
One UI 8.5 Based on Android 16: A Major AI Upgrade
The leak confirms the Galaxy S26 series will debut with One UI 8.5, built on Android 16. The software will focus on deeper AI integration and smoother interface usability.
Highlighted New Features:
| Category | Improvements |
|---|---|
| Galaxy AI | Smarter contextual AI actions, enhanced Now Nudges, and improved generative tools |
| Bixby | Better natural language processing and saved conversation history |
| Quick Settings UI | Resizable toggles, slider customization, and more intuitive layout options |
| Customization | More lock screen elements, adaptive icons, and enhanced Dark Mode consistency |
| Multitasking | Better Samsung DeX memory for window layouts |
| Productivity | Storage Share enables cross-device file access through My Files |
Other notable additions include continuous AI image generation, redesigned battery analytics, partial screen recording, and improved Accessibility tools, including faster Bluetooth hearing aid settings.
The Samsung Galaxy S26 lineup appears poised to deliver a refined hardware experience rather than a dramatic redesign. However, the real advancement lies in One UI 8.5, which introduces stronger AI intelligence, expanded customization, and a more user-friendly interface.
With launch still months away, Samsung has not confirmed any of the leaked details but if accurate, the Galaxy S26 series may represent one of the company’s most polished and intelligent smartphones yet.
