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We’re big fans of the Samsung Galaxy phones at Mark Ellis reviews. In fact, they’ve been the focus of a LOT of Mark’s own articles, even going as far as to say that the iPhone could learn a lot from the S23 Ultra.
So obviously we are eager to find out more on the next iteration, the Samsung Galaxy S25!
Release Date: When Can We Expect the Galaxy S25?
There’s no official release date for the next Galaxy S phone but we can make some pretty educated guesses based on their past release patterns.
Read our Buying Guide: iPhone 16 Pro Max vs Samsung S24 Ultra
Historical Launch Patterns
Samsung’s been pretty consistent with their Galaxy S series launches in recent years. For example:
- Galaxy S24: Unveiled on January 17, 2024
- Galaxy S23: Announced on February 1, 2023
- Galaxy S22: Revealed on February 9, 2022
Interesting fact: Mark Ellis deemed the Galaxy S22 Ultra a massive disappointment.
Predicted Galaxy S25 Launch Window
Based on this trend, we’ll hopefully see the Galaxy S25 make an entrance in January or early February 2025. Some industry insiders are even pointing to a specific date: January 23, 2025.
Availability
Samsung typically opens pre-orders right after the reveal, with phones hitting shelves about two weeks later.
So, if that January 23rd date holds true, we might be looking at a February 6, 2025 release date.
Design: A Fresh Look for the Galaxy S25?
What can we expect from the S25’s design?
Rumoured Design Changes
Rumours have been pointing to a design shift for the S25, especially for the Ultra model. Here’s what we’re hearing:
- Flatter frame: No more curved edges. The S25 Ultra might be embracing a flatter look, similar to recent iPhones.
- Rounded corners: While the frame gets flatter, the corners might get rounder.
- Slimmer profile: S25 Ultra is rumoured to be thinner and lighter than its predecessor. Maybe as slim as the rumoured iPhone 17 Air which might replace the Plus.
Read our iPhone 16 Pro Max review
Material Matters
- Titanium: After introducing titanium to the S24 Ultra, there’s buzz that Samsung might extend this material to the entire S25 line.
- Glass and metal: Expect the usual materials in Samsung’s flagships.
Color Options
Here are some potential hues we might see:
- S25 and S25+: Moon Night Blue, Silver Shadow, Sparkling Blue, Sparkling Green
- S25 Ultra: Titanium Black, Titanium Blue, Titanium Gray, Titanium Silver
Display
Rumour has it that the S25 lineup might see some slight size adjustments:
- S25: Possibly growing to 6.36 inches (up from 6.2″)
- S25+: Likely sticking around 6.7 inches
- S25 Ultra: Holding steady at 6.8 inches, but with even slimmer bezels
Resolution and Refresh Rate
- Resolution: Expect at least QHD+ on the Ultra, with FHD+ on the base models.
- Refresh rate: 120Hz is a given, but could we see variable refresh rates across all models?
Brightness and Color
The 2,600 nit peak brightness on the S24 series was a welcome adjustment. Could the S25 push this even further? Possibly furthering their AMOLED tech, expect vibrant colours and deep blacks.
Special Features
- Under-display camera
- Enhanced durability: Tougher glass for greater scratch resistance.
Performance
Samsung have continued to upgrade their chips, just like Apple. Here’s what we know:
Chipset: The Heart of the Beast
People are hoping for the Snapdragon 8 Elite. This next-gen chip from Qualcomm is expected to power the entire S25 lineup globally.
- CPU improvements: Potentially gains in processing power and efficiency.
- GPU upgrades: Console-quality graphics on your phone.
- AI enhancements: Smarter AI features baked right into the silicon.
RAM and Storage
- RAM: The Ultra model might jump to 16GB, with the base models potentially starting at 12GB.
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB options are likely, with a possible 1TB option for the Ultra.
Camera
Samsung’s camera’s have always been impressive, and we are hoping that the S25 series will be no exception.
Main Camera Setup
- S25 Ultra:
- 200MP main sensor (possibly upgraded)
- 50MP ultra-wide (up from 12MP)
- Two 50MP telephoto lenses (3x and 5x zoom)
- S25 and S25+:
- 50MP main sensor
- 12MP ultra-wide
- 10MP telephoto (3x zoom)
Selfie Camera
- Possible 12MP front-facing camera across all models
- Under-display camera tech?
Camera Features
- Improved night mode
- Enhanced AI processing: Smarter scene recognition and auto-adjustments.
- Pro-grade video features: 8K recording, better stabilization, and pro-level controls.
Zoom Capabilities
The S25 Ultra might have greater zoom capabilities:
- Improved optical zoom range
- Better digital zoom quality
- Possibly a variable zoom lens for smoother transitions
Battery and Charging
Here’s the battery rumours based on models:
- S25 Ultra: Likely sticking with 5,000mAh
- S25+: Possibly around 4,900mAh
- S25: Rumored to keep the 4,000mAh capacity
Charging Speeds
- Wired charging:
- S25 Ultra and S25+: 45W fast charging
- S25: Possibly sticking with 25W (come on, Samsung, bump it up!)
- Wireless charging: Qi2 magnetic wireless charging might make its debut
Battery Improvements
With more efficient chips and smarter power management, we’re hoping to see some gains in battery life across the board.
We are also expecting reverse wireless charging. This feature will let you charge your earbuds or smartwatch right from your phone.
Software: One UI and AI Features
Samsung’s One UI has come a long way, and with the S25, we’re expecting some serious software changes.
Android Version and One UI
- Android 15 out of the box
- One UI 7 with a new look and improved functionality
AI Enhancements
Samsung’s been going all-in on AI lately similar to Apple Intelligence, and the S25 is likely to take this even further:
- Smarter virtual assistant capabilities
- Enhanced real-time translation features
- AI-powered photo and video editing tools
Google AI: What is Google’s Gemini?
Gaming Features
- Game Assist: A new feature that could upscale 60Hz games to 120Hz
- Improved thermal management for sustained performance
Security and Privacy
- Enhanced biometric features
- More granular privacy controls
Connectivity
In our hyper-connected world, the S25 needs to keep up. Here’s what we’re expecting on the connectivity front.
5G and Beyond
- Advanced 5G capabilities across all models
- Possibly early support for 6G technology (yes, it’s already in development!)
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Wi-Fi 7 support for blazing-fast wireless speeds
- Bluetooth 5.3 or newer for improved audio quality and range
Satellite Connectivity
Rumours suggest Samsung might introduce satellite connectivity for emergency situations, similar to what Apple’s doing with the iPhone.
Other Connectivity Features
- Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology for precise location tracking
- Improved NFC for contactless payments and data transfer
Special Features
Every new Galaxy lineup has to bring something new to the table.
S Pen Integration
- Improved S Pen functionality for the Ultra model
- Possibly faster response times and new gestures
DeX Mode Enhancements
- Better desktop-like experience when connected to external displays
- Improved multi-tasking capabilities
Ecosystem Integration
- Tighter integration with Galaxy Buds, Galaxy Watch, and other Samsung devices
- Seamless file and task sharing across devices
What about the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra?
Sustainability Features
- More recycled materials in construction
- Improved repairability and longer software support
Pricing and Availability
Expected Price Points
While it’s too early for exact figures, here’s a rough estimate based on previous models:
- S25: Starting around $799/£799
- S25+: Starting around $999/£999
- S25 Ultra: Starting around $1,299/£1,249
Regional Availability
Expect a global rollout, with some markets getting the phones slightly later than others.
Carrier Deals and Promotions
Keep an eye out for trade-in deals and carrier promotions that could make the S25 more affordable.
Galaxy S25 vs S24: What’s New?
Curious about how the S25 stacks up against its predecessor? Here’s a comparison table.
| Feature | Galaxy S25 (Rumoured) | Galaxy S24 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | Slightly larger (6.36″) | 6.2″ |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Elite | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 |
| RAM | 12GB (base model) | 8GB (base model) |
| Main Camera | 50MP (possibly upgraded) | 50MP |
| Battery | 4,000mAh | 4,000mAh |
| Charging | 25W wired, Qi2 wireless | 25W wired, 15W wireless |
| Software | Android 15, One UI 7 | Android 14, One UI 6 |
| Design | Flatter frame, rounded corners | Curved frame |
Final Thoughts
The Galaxy S25 is shaping up to be an exciting evolution of Samsung’s flagship line. While it might not be a complete revolution, the rumoured improvements in performance, camera capabilities, and AI features could make it a compelling upgrade for many users.
Remember, though, that all of this is based on rumorus and speculation. Samsung always has a few surprises up its sleeve, so who knows what features they might unveil when the S25 officially launches?
Let us know your thoughts in the comment section down below!
