According to SamMobile, Samsung has begun rolling out its One UI 8.5 update to the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Galaxy Z Flip 4. This is the next version of Samsung’s software skin for Galaxy devices. The update is packed with visual changes and new features, with a noted focus on improving security for these 2022 flagship foldables. The rollout is happening now, though the exact timeline can vary by region and carrier. You can check for the update manually in your device’s Settings under Software update.
A welcome, if late, gesture
Look, it’s always good to see older devices get meaningful updates. These phones launched on Android 12 and are already on Android 14, so getting what’s essentially a mid-cycle feature pack in 2025 is a nice surprise. It shows Samsung is at least thinking about extending the software value proposition beyond just the annual Android version bump. For owners, it’s a free refresh that might make the device feel new again, even if just for a little while.
But security is the real headline here
Here’s the thing: when a tech report leads with “more secure” in the headline for a nearly three-year-old phone, it makes you wonder. What vulnerabilities is this patching? The article doesn’t dive deep into the specifics of the security fixes, which is always a bit of a red flag. Are these critical, must-have patches for newly discovered exploits? Or is it more about bolstering Samsung’s Knox platform and backend services? For a device that folds and has a unique hardware profile, the attack surface could be different. I’d want to know exactly what’s being fixed before calling it a day.
The update fatigue is real
And let’s be honest, how many Fold 4 and Flip 4 users are even going to notice? We’re talking about a visual overhaul and some new features buried in settings. After the initial “ooh, shiny” factor of a new animation wears off, does it fundamentally change the experience? Probably not. Plus, there’s the inevitable risk that a major feature update this late in a device’s life could introduce new bugs or battery drain issues. It’s a double-edged sword. Samsung gets PR points for supporting older hardware, but if the update bricks someone’s hinge calibration or inner display, the goodwill evaporates fast.
What it really means for the foldable market
So what’s Samsung’s play here? Basically, it’s a soft sell. This update isn’t just about kindness; it’s a strategic move. By enhancing the 2022 models, Samsung is subtly reinforcing the longevity of its foldable ecosystem. It’s a message to potential buyers: “See? We support our premium products for years.” That’s crucial in a market where people are still skeptical about foldable durability and software support. But the real test is consistency. Will the Z Fold 5 and Flip 5 get the same treatment two years from now? Or is this a one-off to clear inventory and boost sentiment ahead of the next launch? I’m skeptical until I see a pattern.
