Samsung's new series is finally here, with three models - the Galaxy S25 Series - Galaxy S25, S25+ and S25 Ultra - continuing the brand's tradition, but without any major surprises. If you were waiting for a technological breakthrough or a design leap into the future, you will be left empty-handed this time. The S25 Series is basically that next episode of your favorite series, where the writers clearly played it safe. Is it still good? Yes. Is it different? Not much.
Expect a tried-and-true recipe: top-notch hardware, flawless software, and a little AI to spice things up. But will that be enough in 2024, when rivals like Apple, Google and even lesser-known brands are already more aggressively exploring the future of technology?
Let's take a closer look at what the series actually offers. Galaxy S25 – and why it's (not) worth jumping on this train.
What remains the same: Old format, tried and tested strategy
If you stared at the Galaxy S24 last year, then you know what the Galaxy S25 looks like. In terms of design, Samsung took no risks at all – which for some means continuity, for others creative laziness. The dimensions are the same (6.2 and 6.7 inches for the S25 and S25+, 6.8 inches for the S25 Ultra), the bezels are slightly smaller, but other than that, there is no noticeable difference.
The Ultra model boasts more rectangular edges and slightly larger camera bezels, which might be enough to please aesthetic purists, but if you had to identify this phone in a crowd, you'd probably need a magnifying glass.
Samsung's "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" philosophy prevails here - which is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, the S25 series exudes confidence in its design and technical perfection, but on the other hand, it risks losing that spark that excites customers with every new release.
What's new? Little things you (maybe) won't notice
Samsung is putting the biggest emphasis this year on hardware and software improvements, which are more cosmetic in nature. New Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy The processor promises more performance and better energy efficiency, which may significantly improve performance in demanding applications and games. The good news is that all models now have at least 12 GB of RAM, ensuring smooth operation.
The camera on the Ultra model has received a minor upgrade – a new 50MP ultra-wide camera replaces the old 12 MP. This is a solid improvement, but for most users it won't be that noticeable. The rest of the sensors remain unchanged, as does the battery capacity and charging speed.
The biggest boom is happening in the field of artificial intelligence. Samsung has introduced new features such as “Ask Gemini”, which combines the power of Google AI and Bixby, and AI Select, which lets you intelligently select content on your screen, from text summaries to GIF creation. While these features are interesting, the question remains how much you'll actually use them in your daily life.
AI – savior or fad?
Samsung is in the series S25 has invested heavily in artificial intelligence, which is logical, given that AI is currently a hot topic in the tech world. But even here, we can't ignore the fact that some features are more "cool" than actually useful. For example, AI Select and the new Gemini/Bixby assistant may delight tech enthusiasts, but most users will probably only use them occasionally.
Samsung's software advantage: One UI 7
What really sets the Galaxy S25 series apart from previous generations is the new version of Samsung's UI One UI 7Visual changes and a more customizable aesthetic, like a redesigned lock screen, give it a refreshed feel that has also been inspired by Apple in recent years.
Samsung promises that seven years of software support, which is impressive and means your phone is set for a long life. But ironically, it also means that many of the new features from the S25 series will soon be available on last year's S24, which may reduce the need for an upgrade.
Technical trivia – for Geeks only!
The Galaxy S25 series includes three models – Galaxy S25, S25+ and S25 Ultra – offering premium specifications tailored to different users. All models are equipped with the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor, ensuring excellent performance, whether it's gaming, multitasking or everyday tasks. The base Galaxy S25 has a compact 6.2-inch FHD+ AMOLED display, the S25+ offers a larger 6.7-inch display, while the Ultra boasts a 6.8-inch QHD+ LTPO display with even better resolution and power efficiency.
In terms of cameras, the Ultra stands out with a 200MP main sensor, an advanced periscope lens for 10x optical zoom, and a new 50MP ultrawide camera, while the S25 and S25+ maintain a solid combination of a 50MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 10MP telephoto cameras. All models offer at least 12GB of RAM, with an option for 16GB on the Ultra model, and batteries ranging from 4,200mAh on the S25 to 5,000mAh on the Ultra, with varying charging speeds. The Galaxy S25 Ultra also boasts unique features like the built-in S Pen, making it the perfect choice for power users, while the S25 and S25+ offer a more affordable alternative with most of the key features.
Is it time to buy?
For Galaxy S24 owners: No. There simply aren't enough new features to justify the switch unless you're excited about a 50MP ultrawide camera or a bit more processing power.
For users of older models: Maybe. If you have a Galaxy S22 or older phone, you'll see a noticeable improvement in performance, display, and AI features, though it won't be a revolution.
Conclusion: Samsung plays it safe
The Galaxy S25 series' price range covers a variety of budgets, while maintaining a focus on advanced technology and performance. The most powerful model, Galaxy S25 Ultra, is available from 1.449 € for the 256GB version, while the 512GB version costs 1.569 €, and the richest version with 1 TB reaches 1.809 €. Galaxy S25+, which offers a great balance between functionality and price, starts at 1.149 € for 256 GB, while the 512 GB version costs 1.269 €The most accessible is the basic one. Galaxy S25, which in the 128 GB version costs 899 €, while the 256GB version comes 959 €The prices reflect Samsung's commitment to innovation, as each model offers a premium user experience tailored to different needs and expectations.
The Galaxy S25 series is a perfect example of an “evolutionary” approach. It’s extremely solid and technically flawless, but at the same time lacks the “wow” factor that would delight long-time fans of the brand. Samsung is clearly betting on a proven formula and minimally upgrading it, which will probably satisfy most users.
But the question remains: can Samsung remain a leader in a market where competitors are already bringing bold innovations with such an approach? For now, it seems that they are mainly targeting those looking for reliability, not revolution.
So if you're buying the Galaxy S25, you know what you're getting - a safe, reliable phone that won't change the world. But sometimes that's enough.
