The Samsung Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus have arrived, bringing a blend of innovation and refinement to Samsung’s flagship lineup. While these devices may not represent a radical departure from their predecessors, they refine the features that matter most to users: cameras, battery life, and practical AI tools . In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore every aspect of these phones, from their design and performance to their AI-powered features and value proposition. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a casual user, this guide will help you decide if the Galaxy S25 series is worth your investment.
1. Why the Galaxy S25 Series Stands Out
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| Samsung Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus |
Samsung has taken a measured approach with the Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus , focusing on incremental improvements rather than reinventing the wheel. This strategy ensures that the devices remain reliable and familiar while introducing meaningful upgrades that enhance the user experience. Let’s break down what makes these phones stand out in a crowded market.
a. AI Features That Actually Work
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is at the core of the Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus , but Samsung has prioritized practicality over gimmicks. Here are some standout AI tools that make a real difference:
- AI Select: This feature scans your phone’s screen and suggests actions like summarizing text, translating languages, or extracting key information. For example, if you receive an email in Spanish, you can simply circle the text, and the tool will translate it into English within seconds. It’s a game-changer for multilingual users or anyone who needs quick access to information.
- Circle to Search: Powered by Google, this tool allows you to circle anything on your screen to get instant details. It’s particularly impressive when it comes to recognizing songs—whether they’re playing in the background of a video or being hummed by you. During testing, Circle to Search accurately identified niche tracks like Taylor Swift’s I Hate It Here and Foolish One . This feature proves that AI can be both fun and functional.
- Audio Eraser: If you’ve ever recorded a video only to be distracted by background noise, Audio Eraser is here to help. This tool cleans up unwanted sounds, making your recordings sound professional and polished. It’s especially useful for vloggers or anyone who values high-quality audio.
While some AI features, like Portrait Studio and Drawing Assist , feel more like novelties, they still showcase Samsung’s commitment to innovation. Portrait Studio creates stylized portraits that mimic caricatures, capturing intricate details like your hijab, eye shape, and smile. Drawing Assist transforms simple sketches into artistic illustrations, though its practical applications are limited.
b. Now Brief: A Missed Opportunity?
One of the most hyped features, Now Brief , aims to learn your habits and simplify daily routines. For example, if you check the weather, read the news, and consult your calendar every morning, Now Brief is supposed to surface relevant suggestions. Unfortunately, during a week of testing, this feature fell short. It mostly displayed irrelevant articles and basic information like the weather and upcoming events. While it has potential, Now Brief hasn’t yet proven its value.
2. Camera Performance: Consistent Excellence
Both the S25 and S25 Plus share the same camera setup as last year’s models:
- 50MP wide camera
- 12MP ultrawide camera
- 10MP 3x telephoto camera
- 12MP front-facing camera
While there aren’t any groundbreaking changes, the cameras consistently deliver high-quality images and videos. The addition of AI-powered enhancements takes photography to the next level:
Improved Low-Light Performance:
Thanks to AI, low-light photos are brighter and sharper than ever. Night mode captures stunning details without excessive noise, making it perfect for evening outings or indoor gatherings.
Advanced Photo Editing Tools:
The Gallery app now supports conversational search terms, allowing you to find specific photos using natural language. For example, you can search for “beach sunset last summer,” and the app will retrieve the exact image.
Video Enhancements:
With features like Audio Eraser and improved stabilization, the Galaxy S25 series excels in videography. Whether you’re filming a family event or creating content for social media, these tools ensure your videos look and sound professional.
3. Design and Build Quality: Premium and Practical
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| Samsung Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus |
The Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus maintain Samsung’s reputation for sleek, premium designs. Here’s a closer look at their physical attributes:
a. Display and Size
- The S25 features a 6.2-inch AMOLED display , while the S25 Plus boasts a larger 6.7-inch AMOLED display .
- Both screens support a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate , ensuring smooth scrolling and vibrant visuals.
- The displays are protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 , which offers excellent durability against drops and scratches.
b. Build and Ergonomics
The phones’ aluminum frames make them lightweight and comfortable to hold, even for extended periods.
The matte glass backs provide an elegant touch and resist fingerprints, maintaining a clean appearance.
Available in colors like icy blue , navy , mint , and silver shadow , these phones cater to both minimalist and bold aesthetics.
c. Durability
Both models have an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, meaning they can survive being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. During testing, the S25 Plus was dunked into a shallow pool and emerged unscathed—a testament to its rugged build quality.
4. Performance and Battery Life: Power Meets Endurance
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| Samsung Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus |
Under the hood, both models are powered by a custom-built Snapdragon 8 Elite chip , delivering lightning-fast performance. Here’s how they perform in real-world scenarios:
a. Everyday Use
Whether you’re gaming, multitasking, or streaming, these phones handle everything with ease. Apps launch instantly, and transitions between tasks are seamless. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures a buttery-smooth experience, whether you’re browsing social media or watching videos.
b. Battery Life
- The S25 Plus boasts lightning-fast charging , ensuring you’re never tethered to an outlet for long.
- Both models offer impressive battery endurance , easily lasting a full day of heavy use. However, the S25 Plus doesn’t significantly outlast the base model despite its larger size.
c. Software and Updates
The phones ship with Android 15 and Samsung’s One UI 7 , offering a clean and intuitive interface. With seven years of OS and security updates , Samsung ensures these devices remain relevant and secure for years to come. This long-term support is a significant advantage over competitors like Apple, which typically offers five years of updates.
5. Pricing and Value Proposition
The Galaxy S25 starts at $800 , while the S25 Plus is priced at $1,000 . Here’s how they compare:
a. Galaxy S25
- Compact and affordable, the S25 is ideal for users who prioritize portability and value.
- It offers all the key features of the S25 Plus , including the same camera setup and AI tools, at a lower price point.
b. Galaxy S25 Plus
- The S25 Plus appeals to users who want a larger screen and faster charging.
- However, its higher price tag may not justify the marginal improvements over the base model.
c. Competitors
If you’re looking for better camera alternatives at similar price points, consider the Google Pixel 9 or iPhone 15 . These devices offer unique advantages, such as superior computational photography or ecosystem integration.
Conclusion:
The Samsung Galaxy S25 and S25 Plus may not reinvent the smartphone experience, but they excel in areas that matter most: performance, battery life, and practical AI features . With their refined designs, reliable cameras, and long-term software support, these devices are perfect for anyone seeking a dependable flagship phone. Whether you’re upgrading from an older model or switching brands, the Galaxy S25 series proves that sometimes, evolution is all you need.