ZDNET’s main points The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a top-of-the-line flagship device designed for users seeking the best features in a phone, starting at $1,299. Key enhancements include new Galaxy AI capabilities, a powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and a 50MP ultrawide camera lens. There are no significant changes to the camera hardware, battery capacity, or charging speed. The latest Samsung flagship phone, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, has been released, and it largely lives up to expectations. Priced at $1,299, the S25 Ultra remains Samsung’s all-encompassing smartphone, now featuring a more durable display, an improved camera system with useful editing tools, and the latest Qualcomm processor for seamless performance. AI technology plays a major role in this year’s Galaxy S series, with Samsung positioning itself as a leader in the field, surpassing competitors like Apple and Google in terms of features and capabilities, at least for now. The decision on how significant this achievement is ultimately depends on the user’s interest in utilizing AI technology. After spending a day and a half testing the S25 Ultra, I found myself intrigued yet somewhat unimpressed. This marks the fifth iteration of Samsung’s S-series Ultra model, with incremental changes over the years. However, if you’re considering an upgrade from a three- to four-year-old device, take this firsthand experience into account. The S25 Ultra continues the trend of being a large, two-handed phone, maintaining its bold presence and premium feel. The device is lighter than its predecessor and features a more durable Corning Gorilla Armor 2 screen for enhanced protection. While the color options may be uninspiring, the phone’s performance is boosted by the new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, providing improved AI capabilities and quick functionality. The S25 Ultra’s AI features, such as the Gemini app and hybrid AI agent, offer seamless interactions and enhanced productivity. The camera system on the S25 Ultra remains a standout feature, with the addition of a 50MP ultrawide lens for detailed and vibrant photos. Software enhancements like 10-bit HDR video recording and Audio Eraser add to the device’s versatility. Despite these improvements, the S25 Ultra’s upgrades may feel safe and iterative to some users, with certain features like the S Pen stylus and Qi2 compatibility not meeting expectations. Overall, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra offers a blend of cutting-edge technology and familiar features, catering to a wide range of users.
