Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra review: still the superphone to beat ...
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is at the forefront of the latest wave of Android phones, boasting cutting-edge technology and a plethora of features aimed at making your life easier. It combines Google’s advanced AI assistance with Samsung's tools for various tasks such as writing, drawing, photography, and chatting.
Despite its £1,249 (€1,449/$1,299.99/A$2,149) price tag, the Galaxy S25 Ultra offers impressive performance and a host of innovative features. The device features a sleek design, weighing 14g less than its predecessor and sporting a large, stunning display with minimal bezels.
Key specifications:
- Main screen: 6.9in QHD+ Dynamic Amoled 2X (500ppi) 120Hz
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy
- RAM: 12GB
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB
- Operating system: One UI 7 (Android 15)
- Camera: 200MP + 50MP 0.6x + 10MP 3x + 50MP 5x; 12MP front-facing
- Connectivity: 5G, USB-C, wifi 7, NFC, Bluetooth 5.4, UWB, and GNSS
- Water resistance: IP68 (1.5m for 30 mins)
- Dimensions: 162.8 x 77.6 x 8.2mm
- Weight: 218g
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip housed within the Galaxy S25 Ultra offers blazing-fast performance, outperforming even the recent OnePlus 13. The device's battery life is also impressive, lasting up to two days with normal usage and 7.5 hours of active use across various tasks.
Samsung has focused on sustainability with the Galaxy S25 Ultra, using recycled materials in its construction and offering repair and recycling programs for old devices. The company also publishes annual sustainability reports and impact assessments for its products.
AI Features and Performance:
Samsung has enhanced its "Galaxy AI" tools in the S25 Ultra, providing users with new drawing features and an AI select tool for easy editing and searching. The device also introduces the "Now" bar on the lock screen, offering quick access to widgets and timely information.
The next generation of Google’s Gemini assistant on the S25 Ultra allows for seamless multitasking, but it may stumble on trivial tasks. The device's One UI 7 software offers a sleek user experience with customization options, akin to Apple's iOS.
Camera and Imaging:
The S25 Ultra boasts a sophisticated camera system with a 200MP main camera, 10MP and 50MP telephoto lenses, and a 50MP ultra-wide camera. The device excels in low-light performance, delivering detailed and crisp images in various lighting conditions.
With its versatile camera setup and advanced imaging capabilities, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra remains a top contender in the smartphone market.
