Samsung's Bixby assistant will receive a major AI overhaul with One UI 8.5, according to leaked screenshots from a rooted device. The update integrates Perplexity AI for complex queries and introduces real-time conversation capabilities through Bixby Live.
Leaker @GalaxyTechie shared multiple screenshots showing Bixby's new interface on X. The assistant now sends complex questions to Perplexity instead of relying on its limited knowledge base. Responses include citations and appear as well-researched answers rather than basic replies.
Bixby Live mirrors Google's Gemini Live with real-time conversational AI. The feature includes six conversation styles: General Agent, Interview, Listening Ear, Positive Speaker, Storyteller, and Tour Guide. Users can switch between these modes via a dropdown menu.
Third-party service integrations expand Bixby's functionality beyond basic device controls. The assistant will work with The Weather Channel, HERE Maps, Skyscanner, and Uber according to the leaked screenshots. These partnerships enable Bixby to handle travel planning, weather queries, and ride-hailing requests.
Samsung developed its own version of Google's Circle to Search called Circle To Ask. The feature appears similar to the search tool that debuted on Galaxy S24 devices. Bixby can also process uploaded documents and images, discussing them in podcast-style conversations.
Camera and screen sharing capabilities allow Bixby Live to analyze real-world content. Users can share their camera viewfinder or phone screen with the assistant for real-time analysis. Three modes are available: AI Solver for homework assistance, Translation for live language conversion, and General for other tasks.
The Chinese version of Bixby reportedly integrates DeepSeek AI models for enhanced multimodal capabilities. This regional variation suggests Samsung is tailoring AI partnerships to different markets. DeepSeek integration would provide stronger camera and screen analysis features.
One UI 8.5 is expected to debut with the Galaxy S26 series in early 2026. Samsung has not confirmed whether existing devices will receive the Bixby upgrade. The company previously tested Perplexity integration on phones and tablets throughout 2025.
Android Authority discovered code in Perplexity's v2.69.3 app suggesting a "Hey Plex" hotword trigger. This would enable voice activation similar to Google's "Hey Google" command. The integration suggests deeper collaboration between Samsung and Perplexity beyond basic API access.
Bixby retains its core device control functions while outsourcing complex reasoning. The assistant still handles Bluetooth toggling, dark mode activation, and other system tasks. Complex queries route to Perplexity for processing with cited responses.
Samsung's approach follows Apple's strategy of integrating third-party AI rather than competing directly. The company appears focused on making Bixby a viable alternative to Google Assistant through partnerships. This marks a significant shift from Samsung's previous standalone AI development efforts.
The upgrade addresses Bixby's historical weakness in answering complex questions. While reliable for device controls, Bixby struggled with research and conversation compared to modern AI assistants. Perplexity integration aims to close this capability gap.
Export functionality allows users to save AI-generated content as PDF, Word, or text files. Bixby Live can also automatically save captions and annotations to device storage. These features position Bixby as a productivity tool rather than just a voice assistant.
Samsung has not officially confirmed the One UI 8.5 Bixby features. The company typically announces major software updates alongside new device launches. Galaxy S26 series unveiling in early 2026 will likely include official details about the AI upgrades.
