According to SamMobile, the Galaxy S23 is now receiving the November 2025 security update, maintaining Samsung’s commitment to long-term device support. The company is simultaneously developing One UI 8.5 with increasingly feature-rich test builds for Galaxy smartphones and tablets. Samsung plans to debut this major software update with the Galaxy S26 series launching in February 2026. Importantly, the Galaxy S23 remains eligible to receive One UI 8.5, extending its software support timeline significantly beyond typical industry standards.
Samsung’s support strategy
Here’s the thing about Samsung’s approach: they’re playing the long game. While many manufacturers would have moved on from a nearly three-year-old device, Samsung keeps pouring resources into the Galaxy S23. And honestly, it’s smart business. This consistent support builds brand loyalty that pays dividends when customers upgrade. Basically, if Samsung treats you well with your S23, you’re more likely to stick with them for your S26 or beyond.
What One UI 8.5 means
Now, One UI 8.5 represents something interesting. Each test build reportedly packs more visual changes and features than the last, which suggests Samsung is taking a gradual refinement approach rather than revolutionary changes. But is that good or bad? For S23 owners, it means their device continues evolving rather than becoming obsolete. The fact that a 2023 flagship gets software designed for 2026 hardware speaks volumes about Samsung’s commitment to their ecosystem.
The bigger picture
Look, smartphone sales have been sluggish industry-wide. So what’s Samsung’s play here? They’re creating value through software longevity rather than just pushing new hardware. When your three-year-old phone still gets cutting-edge features, that’s a powerful selling point. It’s a strategy that benefits everyone – customers get more value from their purchase, and Samsung builds the kind of loyalty that keeps people in their ecosystem. Pretty clever, really.
