Samsung’s latest Galaxy S25 series is here, introducing subtle hardware refinements alongside significant leaps in software and AI capabilities. While the hardware upgrades are minimal, the series leans heavily on AI-driven innovation to enhance the user experience. This hands-on review delves into the specifics of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, S25+, and S25, exploring their design, features, performance, and early impressions.
1. Galaxy S25 Ultra: The Crown Jewel
Design and Build
- The Galaxy S25 Ultra introduces a more refined and compact design. The bezels are slimmer by 15%, fitting a larger 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display in a more compact frame.
- The use of Gorilla Glass Armor 2 on both the front and back, coupled with a titanium frame, enhances durability. Samsung claims a 29% improvement in drop protection over the previous generation.
- Available in stunning colors like Titanium Silver Blue, Titanium White Silver, and exclusive online shades such as Pink Gold and Jade Green.
Display
- The 6.9-inch display offers 2600 nits peak brightness, ensuring excellent visibility in direct sunlight.
- Dynamic AMOLED 2X with HDR10+ delivers sharp, vibrant visuals at a resolution of 1440×3088 pixels.
Camera Enhancements
- 50MP ultrawide lens with a wider f/1.9 aperture now supports 8K recording.
- The 200MP main sensor with OIS and Laser AF continues to deliver impressive detail and low-light performance.
- Upgraded software-based features like Galaxy Log mode for advanced video editing and AI Audio Eraser to remove background noise enhance the photography experience.
Performance
- Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, the Ultra offers a noticeable performance boost:
- CPU clocked at 4.47 GHz for higher speed.
- GPU and NPU improvements ensure smoother multitasking and AI-driven tasks.
- Storage options go up to 1TB with 12GB RAM, ideal for power users.
S Pen Downgrade
- The S Pen loses its Bluetooth connectivity, eliminating remote shutter and air gesture features. While this may disappoint some users, the stylus still offers precision for note-taking and creative tasks.
Battery
- A 5,000mAh battery with 45W wired and 15W wireless charging ensures long-lasting performance.
2. Galaxy S25+ and S25: Mid-Tier Refinements
Design and Build
- Both models feature Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and Armor Aluminum frames, maintaining durability while shedding 0.4mm in thickness for a sleeker feel.
- Color options include Navy, Icy Blue, and Mint, with exclusive online shades available.
Display
- The S25+ boasts a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 1440×3088 pixels.
- The S25 has a slightly smaller 6.2-inch LTPO AMOLED 2X display, offering a resolution of 1080×2340 pixels.
- Both displays support 120Hz refresh rates for smooth visuals.
Camera
- The camera setup remains the same as last year:
- 50MP main sensor, 12MP ultrawide, and 10MP telephoto with 3x optical zoom.
- AI improvements powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite deliver better low-light video and computational photography.
Performance
- All models share the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, with 12GB RAM now standard across configurations.
- The S25+ and S25 offer 256GB and 128GB storage tiers, with UWB (Ultra-Wideband) missing on the S25.
Battery
- The S25+ features a 4,900mAh battery with 45W charging, while the S25 packs a 4,000mAh battery with 25W charging.
3. Software: One UI 7.0 and AI Revolution
Samsung’s focus on AI-driven features is evident in the new One UI 7.0 overlay. Key highlights include:
AI Enhancements
- Natural Language Input: Enables complex voice commands like searching your gallery or setting reminders.
- AI Select: Analyzes screen content to offer relevant actions, such as creating GIFs or searching for music.
- Cross-App Actions: Allows seamless multitasking, such as finding a location, sending it to a friend, and scheduling an event – all with a single voice command.
- Personalized Features:
- Now Brief: Summarizes your daily schedule, weather updates, and media suggestions.
- Now Bar: Displays contextual information like navigation details or sports updates on the lock screen.
Privacy and Security
- Samsung Knox Matrix and Vault: Safeguard personal data using quantum encryption standards, ensuring local storage of sensitive information.
4. Benchmarks and Performance
Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy
- Offers higher clock speeds than its predecessor, delivering exceptional performance:
- GeekBench 6 multi-core score: 10,050 (S25 Ultra).
- 3DMark Wild Life Extreme score: 5,573 (S25 Ultra).
AI Integration
- Enhanced ISP capabilities improve low-light video recording and introduce features like virtual aperture control for Portrait mode.
5. Pricing and Early Verdict
Pricing
- Galaxy S25 Ultra: Starting at €1,450/£1,250.
- Galaxy S25+: Starting at €1,150/£1,000.
- Galaxy S25: Starting at €900/£800.
Pros
- Refined design with slimmer bezels and improved durability.
- AI-driven features enhance usability and personalization.
- Powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.
- Long-term software support: 7 years of updates.
Cons
- Minimal hardware upgrades for the S25 and S25+.
- Loss of Bluetooth functionality in the S Pen for the Ultra.
- Lack of innovation in battery and charging technology.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S25 series strikes a balance between refinement and innovation, focusing heavily on AI-driven software upgrades while offering only incremental hardware improvements. The S25 Ultra shines with its design and camera enhancements, but the S25 and S25+ feel overshadowed by competitors pushing for faster charging and more energy-efficient batteries.
Samsung’s emphasis on personalization and AI integration in One UI 7.0 suggests a new direction for the brand, but whether these features justify the lack of substantial hardware changes remains to be seen. Stay tuned for full reviews and in-depth performance analysis!
