Samsung’s latest flagship, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, delivers impressive camera capabilities and powerful performance in a premium package. While it maintains the familiar design language of its predecessor, enhanced AI features and improved low-light photography make it a compelling option in the high-end smartphone market, despite its steep price point and limited storage expansion options.

Design and Display

The S25 Ultra features a 6.9-inch LTPO Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with 3120 x 1440 pixels resolution, protected by Gorilla Glass Armor. The titanium frame adds premium appeal but raises scratch resistance concerns. Available in Phantom Black, Silver, and Blue, the device achieves a 91.4% screen-to-body ratio, though its design closely mirrors the S24 Ultra.

Operating System

Running Android 15 with One UI 7, the device promises seven years of major OS updates and security patches. The latest update enhances camera features and system stability, with notable improvements in AI capabilities and multitasking efficiency.

Processor

The Snapdragon 8 Elite processor ensures smooth performance for demanding applications and gaming, outpacing many Android competitors while maintaining comparable performance to Apple’s latest chips.

Camera

The S25 Ultra’s quad-camera system stands as its crowning achievement, featuring a 200MP main sensor that consistently delivers exceptional detail and dynamic range. The camera array includes a 50MP ultra-wide lens and two telephoto sensors (50MP and 10MP), offering versatile shooting options that rival and often surpass competitors like the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

Recent software updates have significantly enhanced low-light performance through the Nightography mode, producing brighter, cleaner images than competing flagship devices. The AI-powered enhancements improve color accuracy and dynamic range, while the refined portrait mode with adjustable bokeh effects rivals professional camera results.

Video capabilities include 8K recording at 30fps, surpassing many competitors still limited to 4K. The camera system excels in various lighting conditions, though some users note that the Google Pixel 8 Pro maintains a slight edge in computational photography for certain scenarios.

RAM and Storage

Starting at 12GB RAM with 256GB storage and ranging up to 1TB, the device offers ample space but lacks expandable storage options, unlike some competing Android flagships.

Sound

Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support deliver impressive audio quality, though bass response falls slightly short compared to the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s speaker system.

Battery

The 5,000mAh battery provides reliable all-day use with 45W fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging capabilities. Charging speeds lag behind competitors like OnePlus and Xiaomi.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Outstanding 200MP main camera with advanced AI enhancements
• Premium build quality with titanium frame
• Excellent performance with Snapdragon 8 Elite
• Reliable battery life with versatile charging options
• Comprehensive software update commitment

Cons

• Conservative design evolution
• No expandable storage
• Relatively slow charging speeds
• Reduced S Pen functionality
• Premium pricing

Market Buzz

Customer feedback highlights strong camera performance and overall capabilities, though some question the value proposition given the incremental upgrades and high price point.

Pricing

• 12GB RAM + 256GB Storage: ₹1,24,990
• 12GB RAM + 512GB Storage: ₹1,34,990
• 16GB RAM + 1TB Storage: ₹1,44,990

Final Verdict

The Galaxy S25 Ultra excels in photography and performance, justifying its premium position despite fierce competition. It’s an ideal choice for users prioritizing camera capabilities and premium features.