Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series, unveiled in early 2025, brings incremental yet notable improvements to the company’s flagship lineup, featuring enhanced AI capabilities, powerful performance, and refined design across its three models: the S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra.
In this Samsung Galaxy S25 Review, we’ll take a look at:
Galaxy S Series Legacy
Samsung’s Galaxy S series has been at the forefront of smartphone innovation since its inception in 2010. From the original Galaxy S to the latest S25 series, Samsung has consistently pushed boundaries, offering cutting-edge features and designs across 16 generations of flagship devices. The Galaxy S25 series, announced on January 22, 2025, and released on February 7, 2025, continues this tradition of innovation with three models: the S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra.
Key features of the Galaxy S25 series include:
- Integration of Google Gemini AI for advanced artificial intelligence capabilities
- A custom-made Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform for Galaxy, optimized for on-device AI processing
- Enhanced camera systems, including a new 50MP ultrawide sensor on the Ultra model
- True AI companion experience with intuitive interactions
- Maintained pricing from the previous generation, offering high-end features at competitive price points
Premium Design and Durability
The Galaxy S25 series showcases Samsung’s commitment to premium design and build quality. The S25 and S25+ feature Gorilla Glass Victus 2 panels and second-generation Armor Aluminum frames, while the S25 Ultra boasts a durable titanium construction and Corning Gorilla Armor 2, a first-of-its-kind material that offers superior scratch and drop resistance. All models maintain the IP68 water and dust resistance rating.
Display innovations across the lineup include Dynamic AMOLED 2X panels with adaptive 120Hz refresh rates. The S25 sports a 6.2-inch FHD+ display, the S25+ offers a 6.7-inch QHD+ screen, and the S25 Ultra features a 6.9-inch QHD+ display. While the S25 Ultra’s peak brightness of 1417 nits is slightly lower than some competitors, it still provides excellent visibility and HDR performance. The series also introduces new color options, including Icy Blue, Mint, Navy, and Silver Shadow, with exclusive online-only colors available through Samsung’s website.
Powerhouse Performance and Cooling
The Galaxy S25 series is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, delivering unprecedented performance for Android devices. This 3nm processor features Oryon cores, with two Prime cores clocked at 4.47GHz and six Performance cores at 3.53GHz. Benchmark results show the Elite processor scoring 30% higher than its predecessor, with the Adreno 830 GPU outperforming previous iterations by a similar margin.
All S25 models come standard with 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM, while storage options vary: the base S25 offers 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB variants, the S25+ comes in 256GB and 512GB, and the S25 Ultra provides 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB options. To manage heat from the powerful chipset, Samsung has implemented an improved cooling system, with the S25 and S25+ featuring a 10% better cooling system, while the S25 Ultra boasts a 42% more efficient vapor chamber. This enhanced thermal management aims to maintain consistent performance during demanding tasks and prolonged usage.
Advanced Camera Array
The Galaxy S25 Ultra’s camera system sets a new standard for mobile photography with its impressive array of sensors and AI-powered features. The main camera retains the 200MP sensor with an F1.7 aperture, multi-directional PDAF, and OIS. A significant upgrade comes in the form of a new 50MP ultra-wide camera with an F1.9 aperture, replacing the previous 12MP sensor. This improvement allows for higher detail in wide-angle shots and enhanced macro capabilities.
The telephoto system remains versatile with a 50MP sensor offering 5x optical zoom and a 10MP sensor with 3x optical zoom. New AI features enhance the camera experience, including real-time semantic segmentation for improved scene recognition and color adjustment. Video capabilities have also been upgraded, with the ability to record 8K at 60fps, up from 30fps in the previous model. The introduction of Galaxy Log for all recording modes and 10-bit HDR recording by default further elevates the S25 Ultra’s video prowess. Additionally, the new Audio Eraser feature allows users to isolate and remove unwanted sounds from videos, making it a powerful tool for content creators.
Galaxy S25 Ultra Camera Innovations
The Galaxy S25 Ultra boasts significant camera innovations, cementing its position as Samsung’s most advanced camera phone to date. At the heart of its imaging system is a powerful 200MP main camera with 2x optical quality zoom, complemented by a new 50MP ultra-wide lens, a substantial upgrade from the S24 Ultra’s 12MP offering. This camera array is further enhanced by a 50MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, providing unparalleled versatility in smartphone photography.
Key innovations include:
- AI-powered features for intelligent scene recognition and automatic image enhancement
- Improved Nightography capabilities for superior low-light performance
- Dual 4K HDR video recording at 30 fps using any two cameras simultaneously
- Video recording in LOG format for expanded post-processing options
- The ability to pre-record photos and videos in Single Take mode
- AI-enhanced 100x Space Zoom for crisp long-range shots
- Advanced macro photography capabilities with the 50MP ultra-wide camera
These features, coupled with the phone’s AI-driven editing tools like “Auto Eraser” for removing unwanted sounds from videos, position the Galaxy S25 Ultra as a formidable tool for both amateur and professional photographers and videographers.
Battery Life Across S25 Models
The Galaxy S25 series maintains impressive battery life across all models, with the S25 Ultra leading the pack. The S25 Ultra, equipped with a 5,000mAh battery, achieves a record-setting 17 hours and 15 minutes in standardized tests, making it the longest-lasting Samsung phone to date. The base S25 model, despite its smaller 4,000mAh battery, demonstrates remarkable endurance, lasting 15 hours and 22 minutes. While the S25+ hasn’t been fully tested yet, it’s expected to fall between its siblings with its 4,900mAh capacity.
Key battery features across the S25 lineup include:
- S25 Ultra: 5,000mAh, 45W wired charging, 15W wireless charging
- S25+: 4,900mAh, 45W wired charging, 15W wireless charging
- S25: 4,000mAh, 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging
All models support reverse wireless charging and benefit from the power-efficient Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, contributing to their extended battery life.
Intelligent One UI Experience
The Galaxy S25 series runs on One UI 7, Samsung’s latest Android-based user interface, which builds upon the company’s commitment to intuitive design and enhanced functionality. This version introduces Now Brief, an AI-driven tool that provides personalized summaries based on user preferences, integrating seamlessly with daily routines and offering tailored information like schedules and energy scores from wearables.
One UI 7 also brings significant AI enhancements, including:
- Cross App Actions for executing tasks across multiple apps with a single command
- Improved natural voice recognition for complex, multi-app tasks
- AI-powered image and video editing tools, including “Auto Eraser” for removing unwanted sounds
- Enhanced security features powered by Samsung Knox
- Multimodal AI agents that can interpret text, speech, images, and videos for more natural interactions
These AI-driven features, coupled with Samsung’s suite of exclusive apps like Samsung Health and Bixby, create a highly personalized and context-aware mobile experience, positioning the Galaxy S25 series as a true AI companion.
Advanced Connectivity Features
The Galaxy S25 series showcases significant advancements in connectivity, offering enhanced 5G performance and support for global bands. The devices utilize the Snapdragon X80 5G modem, which enables peak download speeds exceeding 10 Gbps on 5G networks. This modem supports a wide range of 5G bands, including the newly allocated 6.425 – 7.125 GHz spectrum, ensuring broad global compatibility.
In terms of Wi-Fi, the S25 series introduces Wi-Fi 7 support, featuring 320 MHz channel widths and multi-link operation (MLO) for dramatically improved throughput and reduced latency. Bluetooth advancements include support for LE Audio, enabling hands-free calling and personalized audio adjustments for compatible hearing aids. Additionally, the S25 series introduces satellite connectivity for emergency communications, though this feature is currently limited to Verizon customers in the U.S. This service, powered by Skylo, allows for two-way messaging during emergencies and regular SMS texting when outside cellular coverage areas.
Enhanced Biometric Security
The Galaxy S25 series introduces significant enhancements to its security features, ensuring robust protection for users’ data and privacy. The under-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor has been improved for faster and more reliable authentication, working flawlessly even with glass screen protectors. Facial recognition technology has also been upgraded, offering quicker and more secure device unlocking.
Samsung Knox, the cornerstone of Galaxy security, receives substantial updates in the S25 series. The introduction of post-quantum cryptography safeguards personal data against emerging quantum computing threats. Knox Suite now offers flexible plans catering to businesses of all sizes, with Base, Essentials, and Enterprise options available. Additional security enhancements include an updated Auto Blocker, Maximum Restrictions settings, enhanced Theft Protection, and a new Knox Matrix dashboard for monitoring security across connected devices.
Expanded Ecosystem Integration
The Galaxy S25 Ultra’s S Pen retains its core functionality as a precise stylus for note-taking and drawing, but no longer includes Bluetooth capabilities. This change means features like Air Actions and remote camera shutter control are no longer available. However, the S Pen still offers AI-powered features such as AI Select, Translate, and Magnify, enhancing productivity and creativity.
Samsung DeX on the Galaxy S25 Ultra provides a seamless desktop-like experience when connected to an external display. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor, DeX supports both wired and wireless connections, with 4K resolution output for optimal performance. The latest update to SmartThings expands Galaxy Watch integration, allowing users to control a wider range of smart home devices, including Ring and Nest cameras, directly from their wrist. This ecosystem enhancement demonstrates Samsung’s commitment to creating a more interconnected and convenient smart home experience.
AI-Powered Features in Galaxy S25
The Galaxy S25 series introduces a suite of AI-powered features that redefine the smartphone experience. At the core of these innovations is Galaxy AI, which leverages the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset to deliver advanced AI assistance and improved visual search capabilities. Key AI features include:
- Now Brief: Provides personalized daily summaries, including schedules, energy scores from wearables, and curated photo collages.
- Cross App Action: Allows users to execute tasks across multiple apps with a single voice command, streamlining productivity.
- AI-enhanced camera features: Scene Recognition automatically adjusts settings for optimal shots, while AI Image Processing reduces noise and sharpens images.
- Audio Eraser: Simplifies the removal of unwanted noise in videos by isolating and controlling different sound categories.
- Personal Data Engine: Powers personalized AI features by analyzing user data on-device, ensuring privacy and delivering tailored experiences.
These AI-driven enhancements aim to make interactions more intuitive and effortless, positioning the Galaxy S25 as a true AI companion in daily life.
Competitive Edge Analysis
The Samsung Galaxy S25 series stands out in the competitive flagship smartphone market, offering unique features that set it apart from rivals like the iPhone 16 and other Android flagships. Here’s a brief comparison of key aspects:
Feature | Galaxy S25 | iPhone 16 | Other Android Flagships |
|---|---|---|---|
Processor | Snapdragon 8 Elite | A18 chip | Varies (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, etc.) |
AI Capabilities | Advanced Galaxy AI | Apple Intelligence | Limited AI features |
Camera System | 200MP main, 50MP ultra-wide | Dual 12MP system | Varies (48MP-200MP main) |
Software Updates | 7 years promised | 5-6 years typical | 3-5 years typical |
Display | 120Hz refresh rate | 60Hz refresh rate | 90-120Hz refresh rate |
S Pen Support | Yes (Ultra model) | No | Limited (some models) |
The Galaxy S25 series distinguishes itself with its advanced AI capabilities, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, which outperforms the iPhone 16 in multi-core tasks. Samsung’s commitment to 7 years of software updates surpasses both Apple and other Android manufacturers, ensuring longer device longevity. The S25 Ultra’s camera system, particularly its 200MP main sensor and 50MP ultra-wide lens, offers superior versatility compared to the iPhone 16’s dual 12MP setup. Additionally, features like the S Pen support on the Ultra model and the 120Hz refresh rate across all S25 models provide unique selling points that many competitors lack.
Pricing and Global Availability
The Samsung Galaxy S25 series maintains competitive pricing while offering advanced features across its lineup. Here’s a breakdown of the launch prices and availability:
Model | Storage | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
Galaxy S25 | 128GB | $799 |
Galaxy S25 | 256GB | $859 |
Galaxy S25+ | 256GB | $999 |
Galaxy S25+ | 512GB | $1,119 |
Galaxy S25 Ultra | 256GB | $1,299 |
Galaxy S25 Ultra | 512GB | $1,419 |
Galaxy S25 Ultra | 1TB | $1,659 |
The Galaxy S25 series was officially announced on January 22, 2025, with pre-orders opening the same day. Global release and in-store availability began on February 7, 2025. The devices are available through major carriers, retailers, and Samsung.com in 46 countries. Notably, the 1TB variant of the Galaxy S25 Ultra is only available as an unlocked model in the US, not through carriers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The Samsung Galaxy S25 series offers significant improvements over its predecessors, but also has some areas for refinement:Pros:
- Advanced AI integration with Galaxy AI and Gemini, enhancing user experience across 45 languages
- Improved camera capabilities, including better nighttime video and enhanced selfies
- Powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor, providing seamless performance
- Long-lasting battery life, especially in the Ultra model
- Seven years of software updates, surpassing industry standards
Cons:
- Loss of S Pen Bluetooth functionality in the Ultra model
- Limited storage options compared to previous years
- Conservative design changes, particularly in the base model
- Slightly higher price point than last year’s models
- No major improvements in IP rating compared to competitors
The Galaxy S25 series maintains Samsung’s position as a leader in Android smartphones, offering a balance of cutting-edge features and reliable performance. However, the removal of certain features and minimal design changes may disappoint some long-time fans.
Verdict and Recommendations
The Samsung Galaxy S25 series solidifies its position as a top-tier Android flagship, offering impressive AI capabilities, refined cameras, and robust performance. The S25 Ultra remains the standout, with its versatile camera system and S Pen functionality, albeit without Bluetooth features. For most users, the standard S25 strikes an excellent balance of form and function, offering nearly all the Ultra’s capabilities in a more compact and affordable package.
Recommendations:
- S25 Ultra: Ideal for power users, content creators, and those who value the S Pen
- S25+: Best for those wanting a larger screen without the Ultra’s premium
- S25: Perfect for users seeking flagship features in a more compact form factor
While the incremental upgrades may not justify an immediate switch for S24 owners, those with older devices or looking to enter the Samsung ecosystem will find the S25 series a compelling choice. The seven-year software support promise adds significant long-term value, making any S25 model a sound investment for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the S Pen functionality differ in the Galaxy S25 Ultra compared to previous models?
The S25 Ultra’s S Pen no longer includes Bluetooth capabilities, meaning features like Air Actions and remote camera shutter control are no longer available. However, it still offers core stylus functionality and AI-powered features such as AI Select, Translate, and Magnify.
What improvements have been made to the camera system in the Galaxy S25 Ultra?
The S25 Ultra features a new 50MP ultra-wide lens, upgrading from the previous 12MP sensor. It retains the 200MP main camera and introduces AI-powered features like improved scene recognition and noise reduction. The phone can now record 8K video at 60fps, up from 30fps in previous models.
How long will the Galaxy S25 series receive software updates?
Samsung has committed to providing seven years of software updates for the Galaxy S25 series, surpassing industry standards and ensuring longer device longevity.
