Samsung’s new Bixby beta is a direct attempt to make the assistant more like ChatGPT or Gemini, but with a clearer task: operating your Galaxy phone. Instead of barking precise orders, speak normally and let your intentions translate into actions.
The update is tied to One UI 8.5 and is launching in select markets including Germany, India, Korea, Poland, UK and US. Samsung says a broader expansion is coming, but hasn’t released a timeline or list of supported devices, so availability will vary by model and region.
The main feature is that fewer menu courses have to be carried out. You can describe what you want in your own words, even if you don’t know the exact name of a setting. Bixby is supposed to understand the request, then provide and apply the correct controls.
Natural voice control, fewer menu operations
Samsung’s example is the screen timing out too quickly. If you say you don’t want it to turn off while you’re still viewing it, Bixby can enable “Keep screen on while viewing” without you having to look for the label.
This is important because Galaxy Settings can be extensive and the names aren’t always obvious. When the assistant understands its intent correctly, it turns common tweaks into a quick question. Short. Completed.
A smarter way to troubleshoot anger
Samsung also relies on troubleshooting. The wizard can consider the context of your question, check what is already enabled, and then suggest a solution that you can apply immediately.
If your screen stays on while your phone is in your pocket, you may be notified of Accidental Touch Protection and can enable it. This is the kind of practical help that people often ask for from chatbots, but here it’s tied directly to controlling the phone.
Web answers without leaving Bixby
The other big change is real-time web search, which will appear in Bixby’s own interface. A query like searching for child-friendly hotels in Seoul can return live web results without having to redirect you to a browser.
If you’re in one of the launch regions, your best bet is to check for One UI 8.5 and then test Bixby with messy, everyday requests. Here this update either replaces a few ChatGPT or Gemini queries or fades into the background again.
