Every year, Samsung’s Galaxy S line introduces the Ultra variant, crafted to be the largest, most powerful, and priciest device the company can produce. However, this year, much of its standout features lie beyond the display, cameras, or even the processor. The S25 Ultra boasts the typical high-end hardware, but what sets it apart is Samsung’s latest software approach, which combines a revamped design with Google AI integration.
With a capable chatbot assistant, the ability to record and transcribe calls, natural language processing for sorting photos or setting reminders effortlessly, and the option to inquire about on-screen content, the S25 feels more like a practical AI phone rather than just a device that generates fake images or polishes emails. If you were expecting a groundbreaking AI feature exclusive to this model, you might be let down; the most impressive functionalities will also be available on other devices. Nevertheless, the synergy of Samsung’s hardware, refined software, and innovative AI positions the S25 Ultra as a strong contender for the best Android phone currently available.
In terms of specifications, the S25 Ultra closely resembles last year’s S24 Ultra. The display is slightly larger, the cameras remain largely unchanged aside from some adjustments to the ultra-wide lens, and it features an updated Snapdragon 8 chip, all powered by a robust 5000 mAh battery. However, the familiarity is neither surprising nor disappointing. The 2024 Ultra was already exceptional in terms of hardware, and there’s limited room for significant advancements within a year. The expansive display is among the finest on a smartphone, the impressive multi-day battery life benefits from a more efficient processor, and the overall performance is outstanding.
The Ultra still includes a stylus, though its capabilities have been somewhat reduced. Additionally, the phone has a refreshed appearance with a new rounded design, resembling the standard S models more than the previous Note series, making it more comfortable to hold. While Samsung could have pushed further, the S-Pen feels great but lacks Bluetooth support, meaning it can’t function as a remote shutter. The phone technically supports Qi 2 charging, but it lacks magnets on the back. There’s little reason for someone who purchased an Ultra in recent years to upgrade, but this model is still an improvement, making it the best Samsung device on the market.
The familiar camera setup, featuring a large primary sensor, two zoom lenses, and an ultra-wide lens that also serves as a macro, offers impressive versatility for mobile photography. A 10x zoom shot is notably sharp, enhancing your photography experience.