Samsung Reimagines Bixby as Conversational Device Agent in One UI 8.5 Update

Samsung has formally unveiled a significant upgrade to Bixby, its voice assistant platform, as part of the upcoming One UI 8.5 release. This marks a strategic repositioning of Bixby as a "conversational device agent," focusing on deeper integration with Samsung hardware and more intuitive user interactions. The update arrives with the fifth One UI 8.5 beta build, incorporating the February Android security patch, and is slated for wider release alongside the Galaxy S26 series launch on February 25.

The core advancement lies in Bixby's enhanced contextual understanding. Users can now manipulate device settings using natural, conversational language without needing to navigate complex menus. For instance, stating "I don’t want the screen turning off while I'm looking at it" prompts Bixby to automatically locate and activate the "Keep screen on while viewing" setting. This moves beyond simple command execution, interpreting user intent to streamline device configuration. It reduces friction for adjusting system behaviors previously buried in settings menus, positioning Bixby as a proactive tool for managing the Samsung ecosystem experience.

A second major enhancement introduces real-time web search capabilities directly within the Bixby interface. Unlike previous iterations that relied on static knowledge bases, the upgraded Bixby fetches live information from the web to answer queries. Search results are presented contextually inside the Bixby UI, eliminating the need to switch to a separate browser app. This functionality addresses a key limitation compared to rivals like Google Assistant, enabling Bixby to provide timely answers to questions about current events, sports scores, or stock prices.

The update strategically leverages Samsung's control over its hardware-software stack. By focusing Bixby's intelligence on device management—areas where Samsung has direct API access—it creates unique value difficult for third-party assistants to replicate. Controlling screen timeouts, display modes, connectivity toggles, or Samsung-specific features (like DeX or Modes) becomes frictionless. This strengthens ecosystem lock-in, making Samsung devices more intuitive for users invested in Bixby's capabilities.

Currently, the upgraded Bixby is accessible in Beta 5 of One UI 8.5 within select regions: Germany, India, Korea, Poland, the UK, and the US. Samsung plans a broader rollout following the official One UI 8.5 release. Users in supported regions can test the features now by enrolling in the beta program via the Samsung Members app.

This overhaul signifies Samsung's renewed commitment to Bixby, differentiating it through deep device integration rather than competing solely on general knowledge. The emphasis on conversational control over settings and real-time information retrieval addresses practical user pain points, potentially revitalizing Bixby's role within the Galaxy ecosystem as Samsung pushes further into AI-driven experiences.