Samsung unveiled three new Galaxy S smartphones and an upgrade to its on-device AI platform at an event in California early Thursday morning. In a significant strategic shift, Google Gemini has become the default AI assistant on these devices, with Samsung’s Bixby now serving as an optional alternative. During the event, both companies showcased AI features set to debut on the Galaxy S25 series and Google’s Pixel 9 phones. These features include the ability for users to share images and videos with Gemini while conversing to provide context for their queries, as well as the AI’s capability to utilize multiple apps in response to requests.
The latest Galaxy S phones feature bolder black rings around their camera lenses, but their overall design remains familiar. For instance, Gemini could leverage Google Maps to locate a suitable restaurant and then use Messages to send the address to a contact. In terms of hardware, the Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus appear largely unchanged from last year’s models, though Samsung claims they are slightly thinner and lighter. They maintain the same display sizes of 6.2 inches and 6.7 inches, along with the identical camera setup, albeit with thicker lens rings.
The Galaxy S25, S25 Plus, and S25 Ultra are functionally similar to last year’s S24 lineup, featuring a new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and some new color options. Pricing remains the same, starting at $1400 and $1700 respectively, and Samsung continues to promise seven years of software updates, making the S25 an appealing upgrade for those with older devices.
The high-end S25 Ultra retains most specifications from last year, aside from the new chipset. It now features rounded corners for improved ergonomics and a simplified stylus with Bluetooth capabilities removed. The Ultra starts at $2150, slightly less than last year’s launch price.
Samsung’s new phone lineup includes a collaboration with Crocs for cases. The devices come pre-installed with Samsung’s OneUI 7, which streamlines the interface and introduces features reminiscent of iPhone functionalities. For example, the new Now Bar on the lock screen operates similarly to Apple’s Live Activities, and there is a call recorder that transcribes phone conversations for later review.
Eric Chou, head of mobile at Samsung Australia, stated that the new phones build on the promise of the Galaxy AI platform introduced last year. He emphasized that the S25 series aims to enhance everyday life with features tailored to the unique lifestyles of Australians, reflecting the growing demand for mobile AI.
