Add MobilityArena as a preferred source on Google
One UI 8 was just released last month and Samsung is already testing the next big software update. One UI 8.5 is expected to be available on the Galaxy S26 series out of the box. A new leak suggests that Samsung will include the popular Google Pixel’s calling features in the update for Galaxy phones.
The calling feature will allow an AI assistant to answer and transcribe calls on its own. Users will be able to control when the automatic call screening will be in use with multiple control options, just like Pixel’s Call Screen.
Introduced in 2018, Call Screen uses Google Assistant to pick up calls from unknown or suspicious numbers and transcribe them in real time, letting users decide whether to answer the calls. Following the trend, Apple introduced the feature to iPhones with iOS 26. It’s no surprise Samsung is picking up the pace with One UI 8.5.
Unlike the present call screening system that requires manual input from users, the One UI 8.5 update will allow Galaxy phones to answer and filter calls without any manual interaction.
Leaks suggest that this x.5 release will pack even better and newer features than the One UI 8 update. Based on Android 16 QPR2, One UI 8.5 will also bring the latest QPR features to Samsung devices.
Samsung is testing a call screening tool that requires little manual interaction in One UI 8.5
Similar to Pixel’s Call Screen, Samsung is working on a call screening system that will automatically detect and answer calls, and display a transcript of what the caller is saying. When the Do Not Disturb feature is on, the AI assistant can still answer calls on the user’s behalf. The new system also lets users select a preferred language for call handling.
Samsung will give users more control over the feature as they will get to pick from multiple screening levels. The leak revealed the following four screening levels in the Korean build of One UI 8.5:
- All numbers.
- High: All unknown numbers.
- Medium: Spam and scam numbers, international calls, and numbers with blocked caller ID.
- Low: Spam and scam numbers.
These options are similar to the three-level screening protection of Pixel phones:
- Maximum protection: Screen unknown numbers and decline spam.
- Medium protection: Screen suspicious calls and decline spam.
- Basic protection: Decline only known spam.
Before its official launch next year, we expect that Samsung will expand the feature to be available in English and other languages. The new feature will be especially helpful for those who are too busy to answer calls or don’t feel like picking up calls but don’t want to leave the caller waiting and miss important details.
With Samsung adopting the automatic call screening from Google Pixel in One UI 8.5, more Android users will have the convenience of letting their phones handle unwanted calls.
Author:Obiajulum Ndubuisi
Obiajulum is a tech enthusiast passionate about writing. When she isn’t writing about gadgets, she will probably be playing badminton, watching a movie, or surfing the internet.
Add MobilityArena as a preferred source on Google
If you’ve always seen your S Pen as just a stylus, it’s time to think bigger. Samsung’s September 2025 Galaxy Tab lineup introduces the Magic Wand Feature — an AI-powered upgrade that transforms your S Pen into a remote control, precision tool, and creative sidekick all at once. With the Magic Wand Feature, you can swipe through presentations, edit with pinpoint accuracy, or sketch like a pro — all with a flick of your wrist. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the most of the Magic Wand Feature, from mastering its hidden tricks to adding a touch of fun to your everyday workflow. Because let’s face it — if you’re going to work, you might as well do it with a little magic.
- What Is the Magic Wand Feature?
- Step 1: Enable Air Actions (Your Ticket to Magic)
- Step 2: Master the Essential Wand Gestures
- Step 3: Customize Your Magic Wand’s Powers
- Step 4: Use Smart Select and Screen Write Like a Sorcerer
- Step 5: Level Up With App-Specific Gestures
- Bonus Spell: Use Air Actions While Away From Your Device
- Conclusion
What Is the Magic Wand Feature?
The Magic Wand is Samsung’s fun nickname for the enhanced S Pen Air Actions combined with AI-powered gestures. It allows you to control your tablet from a distance, switch camera lenses with a flick, annotate screenshots effortlessly, and perform shortcuts — all with intuitive pen gestures. It’s like having a wizard’s staff that knows your intentions before you speak.
Step 1: Enable Air Actions (Your Ticket to Magic)
- Swipe down from the top to open Settings.
- Navigate to Advanced Features → S Pen → Air Actions.
- Toggle Air Actions ON to unlock gesture controls using the S Pen button.
Step 2: Master the Essential Wand Gestures
- Wave left or right with the S Pen button held down: Move between apps or slides in presentations.
- Circle motion: Open your favorite app (you can assign which one in the settings).
- Press and hold + swipe up/down: Switch from front to rear cameras or cycle through camera lenses.
- These gestures let you control your device like a magician directing the elements — without getting up from your seat.
Step 3: Customize Your Magic Wand’s Powers
- In Air Actions settings, map gestures to your favorite apps or functions — whether it’s opening notes, launching the camera, or taking a Smart Select screenshot.
- Experiment with assigning different gestures for different apps, so your wand adapts to your needs.
Step 4: Use Smart Select and Screen Write Like a Sorcerer
- Use the Magic Wand to quickly invoke Smart Select by drawing around an area on your screen with the S Pen.
- Capture scrolling screenshots or animated GIFs magically!
- Annotate screenshots instantly with Screen Write — press the S Pen button and tap the screen to snap and start writing spells, or notes.
Step 5: Level Up With App-Specific Gestures
- The Magic Wand feature supports specific gestures in compatible apps like Samsung Notes, Gallery, and Calendar.
- For example, flicking the S Pen can flip pages in Samsung Notes or control presentation slides hands-free.
Bonus Spell: Use Air Actions While Away From Your Device
- Stand a few feet away and control media playback or volume with your S Pen as a remote — perfect for those who hate getting up mid-movie or during a workout.
Conclusion
The Magic Wand Feature on the September 2025 Galaxy Tab models takes the S Pen to a whole new level — mixing creativity, control, and a touch of fun. Once you get the hang of it, the Magic Wand Feature makes your tablet feel like a true creative partner, responding to every gesture with precision and flair. So go ahead — grab your S Pen, explore the Magic Wand Feature, and let your imagination run wild. You don’t need a Hogwarts letter to create a little magic of your own.
