Reports have indicated that Samsung's Bixby AI assistant is anticipated to receive a significant upgrade, integrating large language models (LLMs) and third-party services. This upgrade is expected to be part of the One UI 8.5 update. Leaked screenshots provide details on the enhanced Bixby's functionality.
Anticipated Features and Integrations
A developer shared screenshots on Reddit showcasing Bixby's integration with Perplexity, enabling information retrieval from the internet. The leaks also reveal integrations with additional third-party services, including The Weather Channel, HERE Maps, SkyScanner, and Uber. These features were discovered through a rooted device using One UI 8.5 firmware files.
When Bixby is activated, it appears in a mini-window over existing content. Users can continue conversations, rate results, copy text, and access sources directly via the Perplexity app or website. The Bixby application, accessible from the app drawer, will display previous conversations through a left-side menu. Bixby is shown to perform device-related actions such as controlling Bluetooth, Dark Mode, and the Flashlight. Users may also upload documents or images for discussion with Bixby.
Advanced AI Capabilities
Bixby appears capable of discussing uploaded documents in a podcast-style format, similar to Google's Gemini. Samsung is also developing a feature named Circle To Ask, which is comparable to Google's Circle to Search.
Another new feature identified is Bixby Live, which resembles Gemini Live by providing real-time responses during active conversations. It includes several conversational styles: General Agent, Interview, Listening Ear, Positive Speaker, Storyteller, and Tour Guide, selectable via a drop-down menu.
Bixby Live may allow users to share their phone's camera viewfinder to analyze surroundings or share the phone's screen for discussion. When the camera viewfinder is shared, three modes are available: AI Solver, General, and Translation. AI Solver is described as assisting students with assignments, while Translation is intended for live language translation. The General mode would handle other tasks.
Release Information
Samsung has developed these features, utilizing Perplexity and its in-house LLMs, with many functionalities mirroring Google's Gemini AI assistant. However, the official release of these features with One UI 8.5 is not yet confirmed and is based on leaked information.
One UI 8.5 is expected to launch with the Galaxy S26 series next month. It is currently unknown if these new Bixby features will be released to existing or older devices.