Introduction
The Samsung Galaxy S25 series has arrived, and while the hardware improvements are modest, Samsung has shifted its focus to software and artificial intelligence (AI) innovation. This year’s lineup—comprising the Galaxy S25 Ultra, S25+, and S25—aims to enhance user experience with smarter features, improved AI, and subtle design refinements.
Let’s take an in-depth look at each model, starting with their standout features and specs.
Galaxy S25 Ultra: Specs and Features
Design and Build
- Dimensions: 162.8 x 77.6 x 8.2 mm, 218g.
- Materials: Glass front and back (Gorilla Glass Armor 2), titanium frame, IP68 water and dust resistance.
- Color Options: Titanium Silver Blue, Titanium White Silver, Titanium Green, and Titanium Black (with online exclusives like Titanium Pink Gold and Jet Black).
The S25 Ultra’s bezels have been reduced by 15%, allowing for a larger 6.9-inch display without increasing the phone’s footprint. The titanium frame adds durability, while the slimmed-down chassis offers better portability.
Display
- 6.9″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X.
- 120Hz refresh rate with HDR10+.
- Peak brightness: 2600 nits.
- Resolution: 1440 x 3088 pixels.
Samsung has introduced a next-gen DX anti-reflection coating, improving sunlight legibility. Combined with the already vivid AMOLED display, the Ultra offers a stellar viewing experience.
Camera
The S25 Ultra features the most substantial camera update:
- Main Camera: 200 MP with Laser AF and OIS.
- Telephoto (5x): 50 MP, f/3.4.
- Telephoto (3x): 10 MP, f/2.4.
- Ultrawide: Upgraded to 50 MP with f/1.9 aperture.
Video recording is enhanced with 8K at 30fps and a new Galaxy Log mode, allowing pro-level color grading. AI-driven video stabilization and a new “AI Audio Eraser” for sound adjustments are noteworthy additions.
Performance
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy (4.47 GHz Oryon V2 Phoenix cores).
- GPU: Adreno 830 with overclocked speeds.
- RAM/Storage: 12GB RAM, 256GB/512GB/1TB storage options.
- OS: Android 15 with One UI 7.0.
The Ultra’s performance sees a generational leap with the Snapdragon 8 Elite, offering faster core speeds, improved efficiency, and enhanced AI processing.
Battery and Charging
- 5000mAh capacity.
- 45W wired, 15W wireless, 4.5W reverse wireless charging.
- Advertised 65% charge in 30 minutes.
Galaxy S25+ Specs and Features
Design and Build
- Dimensions: 158.4 x 75.8 x 7.3 mm, 190g.
- Materials: Glass (Gorilla Glass Victus 2) with Armor Aluminum frame.
- Colors: Navy, Icy Blue, Mint, and Silver Shadow.
The S25+ retains its elegant design but doesn’t receive the tougher Gorilla Glass Armor of the Ultra. However, the device is slimmer and more comfortable to hold.
Display
- 6.7″ Dynamic AMOLED 2X.
- 120Hz refresh rate.
- Peak brightness: 2600 nits.
- Resolution: 1440 x 3088 pixels.
The display is as vibrant and sharp as the Ultra, ensuring a great multimedia experience.
Camera
- Main Camera: 50 MP, Dual Pixel PDAF.
- Telephoto: 10 MP, 3x optical zoom.
- Ultrawide: 12 MP, still lacking autofocus.
Camera hardware remains unchanged from the S24+, but AI enhancements in the Snapdragon 8 Elite improve low-light performance and video stabilization.
Performance
- Same Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor.
- RAM/Storage: 12GB RAM, 256GB/512GB storage options.
The S25+ benefits from the same AI-driven performance improvements as the Ultra but lacks the S Pen and advanced camera features.
Battery and Charging
- 4900mAh capacity.
- 45W wired, 15W wireless, 4.5W reverse wireless charging.
Galaxy S25 Specs and Features
Design and Build
- Dimensions: 146.9 x 70.5 x 7.2 mm, 162g.
- Materials: Gorilla Glass Victus 2 with Armor Aluminum frame.
- Colors: Navy, Mint, Icy Blue, and Silver Shadow.
The S25 is the most compact and lightweight in the lineup, making it ideal for one-handed use.
Display
- 6.2″ Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X.
- 120Hz refresh rate.
- Peak brightness: 2600 nits.
- Resolution: 1080 x 2340 pixels.
Despite a lower resolution compared to its siblings, the S25 delivers a high-quality display.
Camera
- Main Camera: 50 MP, Dual Pixel PDAF.
- Telephoto: 10 MP, 3x optical zoom.
- Ultrawide: 12 MP.
Camera performance is similar to the S25+, with enhancements driven by the new ProVisual Engine.
Performance
- Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy.
- RAM/Storage: 12GB RAM (across all configurations), 128GB/256GB/512GB options.
Unlike previous vanilla models, the S25 now starts with 12GB of RAM, ensuring smoother multitasking.
Battery and Charging
- 4000mAh capacity.
- 25W wired charging, 15W wireless.
AI and Software: One UI 7.0
Samsung’s One UI 7.0, based on Android 15, introduces several AI-focused features:
- AI Agents: Perform cross-app actions like finding restaurants, sharing locations, and setting reminders.
- AI Select: Enhances Smart Select with new tools for creating GIFs and wallpapers.
- Circle to Search: Combines visual and audio recognition for contextual searches.
- Now Brief and Now Bar: Provide daily summaries and contextual information directly on the lock screen.
Privacy concerns are addressed through Samsung Knox Matrix, ensuring data is stored locally and encrypted.
Early Verdict
Pros:
- Significant AI and software improvements.
- Faster and more efficient Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.
- Slimmer, lighter designs across the lineup.
- 50MP ultrawide upgrade for the S25 Ultra.
Cons:
- Minimal hardware upgrades for the S25 and S25+.
- S Pen on the Ultra loses Bluetooth functionality.
- No major advancements in battery or charging tech.
Conclusion
The Galaxy S25 series offers an incremental upgrade over its predecessors, with a focus on AI and software rather than groundbreaking hardware changes. While the Ultra delivers the most comprehensive experience with its upgraded design, display, and camera system, the S25 and S25+ feel less compelling. Still, the series’ AI-powered features and robust performance could make it a worthy choice for tech enthusiasts. Pricing starts at:
- Galaxy S25 Ultra: €1,450/£1,250.
- Galaxy S25+: €1,150/£1,000.
- Galaxy S25: €900/£800.
Stay tuned for our full review, where we’ll explore performance benchmarks, camera samples, and real-world usability.
