Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Camera Upgrade: One UI 8.5 to Unlock 25x Video Zoom

Samsung’s current non-foldable flagship smartphone, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, is already a powerhouse in the mobile photography world. Currently running on the stable One UI 8.0 firmware, the device offers a respectable 20x zoom for video recording. However, recent leaks suggest that Samsung is preparing to push the boundaries even further with its next major software iteration. The upcoming One UI 8.5 update is expected to bring a significant boost to the device's videography capabilities, enhancing the user experience for creators and zoom enthusiasts alike.

Breaking the 20x Barrier: What to Expect from One UI 8.5

According to insights shared on X by the well-known tech tipster, **Ice Universe**, the Galaxy S25 Ultra will soon support a 25x zoom level during video capture. This represents a 25% increase over the current maximum zoom, allowing users to get even closer to the action without switching to still photography modes. The tipster even provided a screenshot from a development build to substantiate the claim, showcasing the updated camera interface.

As illustrated in the leaked image above, the camera UI features six standard focal length shortcuts: 0.5x, 1x, 2x, 3x, 5x, and the newly added 25x. This layout suggests that Samsung is prioritizing quick access to high-magnification levels, acknowledging how users frequently utilize the Ultra's periscope lens capabilities. Previously, the interface capped these quick-toggle levels at 20x, requiring manual sliding to go further if the hardware allowed, but now 25x is becoming a primary standard.

A More Modern and Intuitive User Experience

Beyond just camera hardware optimizations, One UI 8.5 introduces a comprehensive visual overhaul. The new interface is designed to look cleaner and more sophisticated, aligning with modern design trends. Samsung has focused on making the software easier to navigate with one hand while providing a deeper level of customization for power users. This update isn't just about a single feature; it's about refining the entire Galaxy ecosystem for better performance and aesthetics.

The update also packs a variety of new features that enhance productivity and entertainment. From improved multitasking gestures to smarter AI integration, One UI 8.5 aims to make the Galaxy S25 series the most versatile smartphones on the market. You can explore a deep dive into these changes in the detailed video guide provided below.

What is the new maximum video zoom for the Galaxy S25 Ultra?

With the upcoming One UI 8.5 update, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is expected to support up to 25x zoom for video recording, an increase from the 20x limit found in One UI 8.0.

Which software version introduces this camera upgrade?

The 25x video zoom feature is part of the One UI 8.5 firmware, which is expected to follow the initial Android 16-based One UI 8.0 release.

Will there be changes to the camera's visual interface?

Yes, leaked screenshots show a revised camera UI with dedicated focal length buttons, including a new shortcut specifically for the 25x zoom level, making it easier to use.

Are there other improvements in One UI 8.5 besides zoom?

One UI 8.5 brings a cleaner, more modern UI, improved ease of use, and higher levels of customization across the entire system, along with several new productivity features.

🔎 The leap to 25x video zoom on the Galaxy S25 Ultra is a testament to Samsung's commitment to maintaining its lead in the mobile camera space. By combining cutting-edge hardware with intelligent software refinements in One UI 8.5, Samsung ensures that its flagship remains the top choice for mobile photographers and videographers. As we move closer to the official rollout, it is clear that the Galaxy experience is becoming more polished, powerful, and user-centric than ever before.