Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra: Power Meets polish
Samsung’s latest powerhouse, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, is here, and it’s everything you’d expect from the company’s top-tier handset. Priced at a bold $1,299, the S25 Ultra is packed with premium features for those seeking the ultimate smartphone experience. Here’s what we found after a day of hands-on testing.
AI: Where Samsung Shines
In an era where AI is everywhere, Samsung is leaned into its strengths. Powered by the new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, the S25 Ultra boasts a 40% increase in NPU performance. This translates to snappy, low-bandwidth AI experiences, like swiftly removing subjects from photos or pulling up Gemini search results in seconds.
Samsung’s Gemini-Bixby hybrid AI agent takes the helm, handling conversational chains of actions with ease. It’s not quite omnipotent, requiring specific phrasing for commands, but it’s a step in the right direction. Coupled with intelligent software tools like AI Select and Now Brief, Samsung is making a strong case for having the best AI phone on the market.
Design: Familiar yet Refined
The S25 Ultra maintains the series’ signature large, ergonomic frame. Despite its size, it’s lighter and more refined than ever, thanks to the thinnest Galaxy S Ultra design yet. Samsung’s Gorilla Armor 2 protection on the front display promises improved drop protection and scratch resistance.
The once-vibrant Aura Glow finishes are replaced with safer, more muted colors, suggesting Samsung is playing it safe. A case is highly recommended to add some personality to your new device.
Camera: New Details for Your Memories
Samsung hasn’t shaken up the hardware much, with the 200MP wide, 50MP 5x telephoto, and 10MP 3x telephoto lenses returning from last year. But the new 50MP ultrawide lens pulls in four times more detail, offering greater vive and clarity, especially for macro shots.
software: Expanded Features and AI Integration
Samsung is focusing on software enhancements for its camera system. Highlights include 10-bit HDR video recording, Audio Eraser for detailed audio adjustment, and Galaxy Log mode for real-time video adjustment.
Early Verdict: Iterative Upgrades for a Premier Experience
Our first full day with the S25 Ultra reveals a phone that, while iterating on last year’s model, still offers a premier smartphone experience. Its vibrant display, versatile cameras, and robust AI features make it a strong contender for anyone considering an upgrade.
That said, those coming from the latest flagships may find the upgrades iterative. Samsung has even taken some steps back, like removing S Pen Bluetooth controls and opting for Qi2-ready cases instead of embedding the tech within the phone.
Consumers trading in older devices, however, will find the S25 Ultra ticks nearly every box. Generous trade-in deals sweetening the deal, making it a compelling upgrade. We’ll delve deeper into the S25 Ultra’s capable cameras and AI features in the coming days. Stay tuned.
the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a formidable flagship that cements Samsung’s position at the forefront of smartphone innovation. With it’s impressive performance powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, coupled with the groundbreaking advancements in AI through Gemini-Bixby, Samsung has crafted a truly exceptional mobile experience.While the hefty price tag may be a barrier for some,the S25 Ultra delivers on its promise of a premium,feature-rich device that caters to the needs of discerning users seeking the absolute best in mobile technology.
the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a testament to Samsung’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of mobile technology.While building on the triumphant formula of its predecessors, the S25 ultra elevates the experience with its impressive AI capabilities, sleek design, and powerful hardware.
the integrated Gemini-Bixby AI shows exciting potential, promising a more intuitive and seamless user experience. Its innovative features, coupled with the impressive performance of the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, make this a phone that’s truly future-proof. Whether you’re a power user who demands the best performance or simply appreciate a beautifully designed and intelligently crafted device, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is a compelling option. It’s a clear statement that Samsung remains a dominant force in the smartphone market, setting the standard for what a premium device should be.
