Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra release date expectations, price estimates, and upgrades
What we know so far
Samsung's next big flagship, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, is expected to hit the shelves in early 2025. As a successor to one of the best Android phones currently available, the Galaxy S25 Ultra will have the tough job of recapturing the magic by surgically implementing improvements and upgrades to the established formula.
Even though the Galaxy S25 Ultra is still a ways off, we have already got a sneak peek at a few key features. For everything else, we can make some solid guesses based on what Samsung has done with previous models.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra is expected to rock a sturdy titanium build and Corning's glare-free glass for extra durability. While the design will likely stick to the flat style of the previous model, it is rumored to get rounded edges for a sleeker feel. You can also expect the integrated S Pen to return, along with the reliable IP68 water and dust resistance.
The display might stick to 6.8 inches and will almost certainly keep rocking a Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel, with its super-smooth 1-120Hz refresh rate. Hopefully, Samsung will bump up the maximum brightness even further for better visibility outdoors.
It terms of performance, it is almost a given that we will find Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite chip under the hood. There is always a chance this chip might be only in US units, leaving room for an Exynos version elsewhere in the world, but to be honest, that is pretty unlikely.
When it comes to the battery, we are hoping for better battery life with the Galaxy S25 Ultra. However, we are not expecting a much larger battery because of space constraints. Faster wired charging would be great, but it’s likely we'll see the return of 45W charging support.
We expect the Galaxy S25 Ultra to cost as much as the current model does. As a refresher, the Galaxy S24 Ultra starts at $1,300 for the 256GB version and goes up to $1,660 for the 1TB option.
Now, let's delve deeper into all the expectations surrounding the upcoming Galaxy S25 Ultra. You can also take a look at all the available information about the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S25.
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Galaxy S25 Ultra release date
The Galaxy S25 Ultra is expected to be unveiled in January or February 2025. Samsung has a tradition of launching its flagship series at the start of the year, so this timeline fits right in.
There is a rumor floating around that Samsung could unveil the Galaxy S25 series as early as January 5. If true, it would mark an almost two-week jump from this year's January 17 launch. But let's be real – January 5 doesn't feel all that likely. For one, CES 2025, a major tech event, runs from January 7-11, and Samsung usually waits until after the show to showcase its new flagship phones.
Plus, another leak from the reliable tipster Max Jambor, points to January 22 instead. This date not only comes from a trusted source but also lines up with Samsung's past patterns. Both of the last two Winder Unpacked events happened on Wednesdays, and January 22 just so happens to be a Wednesday too.
Samsung typically releases its new smartphones about two weeks after the official announcement. Depending on the timing, the actual release date could easily spill over into February.
| Device lineup | Announcement | Market release |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S25 Ultra | January 2025* | January/February 2025* |
| Galaxy S24 Ultra | January 17, 2024 | January 31, 2024 |
| Galaxy S23 Ultra | February 1, 2023 | February 17, 2023 |
* - probable dates
That is not the whole story, though. Regardless of when the Galaxy S25 series launches, Samsung might have something new up its sleeve. Word on the street is that a new model, the Galaxy S25 Slim, could join the lineup. This ultra-thin device might arrive later, around April or May, but one rumor suggests it could debut alongside the rest of the series – if Samsung manages to wrap things up in time. It is not a sure thing yet, but it is definitely still a possibility!
Galaxy S25 Ultra price
With the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Samsung could go one or two ways: either make it pricier or leave the price tag unchanged. Seeing how the current Galaxy Ultra model scored a $100 price increase this year we find it a bit difficult to believe that Samsung will go for another price increase for a second year in a row.
However, a recent report indicated that the Galaxy S25 Ultra could come with a higher price tag unless Samsung Foundry boosts its 3nm production yields, but we’ll have to wait and see how that plays out.
| Model | 256 GB of storage | 512 GB of storage | 1 TB of storage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S25 Ultra | $1,299* | $1,419* | $1,659* |
| Galaxy S24 Ultra | $1,299 | $1,419 | $1,659 |
| Galaxy S23 Ultra | $1,199 | $1299 | $1,619 |
* Anticipated prices
If past Galaxy launches are any indication, there will likely be several ways to save on the upcoming Galaxy S25 Ultra, such as trading in a device or pre-ordering the phone. US carriers usually offer deals and bonuses for new Samsung flagships as well. So, what kind of pricing and deals can we expect for the Galaxy S25 Ultra from Samsung and the major carriers?
- Samsung: When the Galaxy S24 Ultra launched, Samsung offered trade-in credits of up to $750. It’s likely that the Galaxy S25 Ultra will have a similar deal, so if you’ve got an eligible device to trade in, you could save a substantial amount on your upgrade.
- Verizon: If you go with a carrier plan, the deals get even sweeter for the current model and should be similar for the next one. For instance, Verizon's Device Payment Program offers $800 off if you pick the Unlimited Ultimate plan before ordering your new device and trading in any Samsung smartphone.
- T-Mobile: At T-Mobile, you can snag up to $600 off through 24 monthly bill credits when you add a new voice line on a qualifying ONE, Magenta, or Go5G plan.
- AT&T: This carrier has some fantastic offers, too. For instance, with the current model, you can get up to $1,000 off with a suitable unlimited plan and an eligible trade-in device valued at just $95 or more.
So, as you can see, there are plenty of ways to grab a flagship Galaxy smartphone at a lower price, and similar deals will likely be available for the Galaxy S25 Ultra, too.
Galaxy S25 Ultra camera
If we are to trust Ice Universe on X – one of the most reliable Samsung-focused leakers out there – the camera specs for the Galaxy S25 Ultra have been “confirmed.” We are talking in-depth details here, covering everything from megapixel counts to sensor models, pixel sizes, and optical zoom limits.
- 200 MP primary Samsung Isocell HP2 sensor
- 10 MP secondary Sony IMX754 telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom
- 50 MP Sony IMX854 periscope telephoto sensor featuring 5x optical zoom and a 0.7 micrometer pixel size
- 50 MP Samsung Isocell JN3 ultra-wide-angle sensor with a 0.7 micrometer pixel size
If you are familiar with the S24 Ultra’s camera specs (you can see them in the table below if not), you might find Samsung’s upgrades for its flagship a bit underwhelming. After all, the first three sensors listed above seem to remain unchanged for the S25 Ultra.
So, the main hardware upgrade for the Galaxy S25 Ultra appears to be its ultra-wide camera. However, the new Isocell JN3 sensor, which hasn’t been released yet, is expected to deliver impressive wide-angle performance for the S25 Ultra.
| Phone | Camera specs |
|---|---|
| Galaxy S25 Ultra | Wide: 200 MP F1.7* Ultra-wide: 50 MP Telephoto #1: 10 MP F2.2 3X optical zoom* Telephoto #2: 50 MP F3.4 5X optical zoom* Front: 12 MP F2.2* |
| Galaxy S24 Ultra | Wide: 200MP F1.7 Ultra-wide: 12MP F2.2 Telephoto #1: 10MP F2.2 3X optical zoom Telephoto #2: 50MP F3.4 5X optical zoom Front: 12MP F2.2 |
When it comes to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, it's safe to assume that AI will have an even bigger part to play in mobile photography and videography. This year, Samsung went all in on artificial intelligence and machine learning to step up its photography game with its top-notch "cameraphone".
And as if that weren't enough, we can also expect the usual software tweaks and image-processing algorithm upgrades that come around every year. This means that we can expect better low-light performance, upgraded image stabilization and, hopefully, even better portrait capture capabilities. Oh, and maybe even 100x Space Zoom, even without the 10X periscope camera!
Galaxy S25 Ultra storage
The Galaxy S25 Ultra could be the first phone to feature Samsung's UFS 4.04-lane storage chip, which could theoretically support nearly 8GB/sec. This means nearly double the 4GB/s of the UFS 4.0 standard that's currently used on most phones.
According to an existing Samsung roadmap, the faster storage is expected to be available in 2025. In our opinion, that would definitely amp up the device's performance and it could also be a big boost for Samsung's on-device Galaxy AI.
We anticipate the base version of the Galaxy S25 Ultra to offer 256GB of storage, with options for 512GB and 1TB also likely available. There are also rumors suggesting a higher-end model with 16GB of RAM alongside the base configuration with 12GB of RAM.
Galaxy S25 Ultra expected storage capacity:
- 256 GB
- 512 GB
- 1TB
Galaxy S25 Ultra design
A recent report offered more insight into the possible design changes for the upcoming Ultra model, showing renders of it alongside the current version. The Galaxy S25 Ultra appears to be moving toward rounded edges, giving it a look that’s more in line with the Galaxy Note series.
The Galaxy S24 Ultra (on the left) next to the upcoming Galaxy S25 Ultra (on the right) and Samsung’s next flagship with the S Pen (the second image) | Image credit – Ice Universe
Plus, Samsung leaker Ice Universe hinted at a design twist for the Galaxy S25 Ultra's middle frame. Instead of sticking to a fully straight or curved frame, it is expected to have a rounded back and a straighter front near the display. This asymmetrical design could give the phone a fresh look and feel.
Overall, the Galaxy S25 Ultra might look a little less aggressive than the Galaxy S24 Ultra and another recent leak also suggests that it will feature more rounded edges, giving it a smoother appearance while still maintaining its signature sleek style.
New Galaxy S25 Ultra renders are setting the expectations for what's to come.
When you hear the same thing from multiple sources, it’s usually a good sign that it is accurate. Recently, a flurry of leaks has indicated that Samsung is moving away from sharp corners for the Galaxy S25 Ultra. A dummy unit of this premium phone has surfaced, showcasing those rounded edges. Plus, a leak of a Galaxy S25 Ultra case suggests some significant improvements in ergonomics as well.
A photo of Galaxy S25 series dummy units was recently shared. | Image credit – Ice Universe
In terms of size, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is rumored to measure 162.82 x 77.65 x 8.25 mm. Compared to the Galaxy S24 Ultra's 162.3 x 79.0 x 8.6 mm, the S25 Ultra might not only be thinner and narrower but also a bit taller.
One other thing we are pretty sure about is that Samsung isn't ditching the titanium frame. It was a major highlight of the Galaxy S24 Ultra, so we expect it to stick around for several future generations, too.
Naturally, you can count on other staples like the built-in S Pen and IP68 water and dust resistance sticking around in the Galaxy S25 Ultra specs sheet.
A recent report has also revealed the potential color choices for the Galaxy S25 Ultra. The top-tier model is expected to come in:
For a deeper dive into the color options for the upcoming Galaxy flagship series, don't miss our dedicated piece on the Galaxy S25's colors.
- Titanium Black
- Titanium Blue
- Titanium Gray
- Titanium Silver
If you are curious about how those rumored colors will actually look, you are in for a treat! New renders of the Galaxy S25 Ultra have recently surfaced, showcasing all four of the rumored color options.
Renders of the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra in all four rumored colors. | Image credit – Technizo Concept
Galaxy S25 Ultra display
The Galaxy S25 Ultra is expected to come along with a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, which will be similar to its predecessors. The resolution of this OLED display will probably remain at 1440 by 3080 pixels, delivering a very decent sharpness of over 500ppi. This, in turn, means that you won't be able to distinguish between individual pixels.
It is safe to assume the display will be incredibly smooth, thanks to LTPO 3.0. This feature will let the screen dynamically switch between 1 Hz and 120 Hz, depending on what is needed.
One of the best new features of the Galaxy S24 Ultra was the exclusive Gorilla Glass Armor, which mostly eliminated glares and as a result greatly boosted the outdoor legibility of the screen. This feature turned out to be a fan-favorite and we totally get why, as such: we sincerely hope it makes a comeback.
Moreover, display brightness has become the new battleground, with smartphone makers always pushing to outdo each other. Given this ongoing trend, it is likely that Samsung will equip the galaxy S25 Ultra with an even brighter display than the one found on its predecessor.
Galaxy S25 Ultra battery
A recent report suggests that the Galaxy S25 Ultra will retain the same battery size and charging speed as its predecessor. Mainly due to space constraints, we expect Samsung to put a 5,000mAh battery inside the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Yet, if the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite proves to be efficient enough, we might still see an improvement in battery life. Additionally, a new rumor suggests that Samsung might introduce a feature called Battery AI. This feature is said to provide an additional 5% to 10% of runtime to the phone.
We hope Galaxy S25 Ultra features faster charging than the 45W wired one of its predecessors. While neither the Galaxy S24 Ultra nor the Galaxy S23 Ultra charged slowly (both are capable of topping up in roughly about an hour), there's always room for improvement.
We hope Galaxy S25 Ultra features faster charging than the 45W wired one of its predecessors. While neither the Galaxy S24 Ultra nor the Galaxy S23 Ultra charged slowly (both are capable of topping up in roughly about an hour), there's always room for improvement.
Hopefully Samsung will consider adding faster wireless charging to the Galaxy S25 Ultra, too. Currently, the top Samsung flagship phone charges at up to 15 W with an official charger.
We don't expect to see a charger in the Galaxy S25 Ultra box and neither should you.
We don't expect to see a charger in the Galaxy S25 Ultra box and neither should you.
Galaxy S25 Ultra features and software
Galaxy AI will most certantly be present on the Galaxy S25 Ultra
By the time Galaxy S25 Ultra arrives, we should have witnessed the arrival of both Android 15 and the derived from it One UI 7. We might even see One UI 7.1 on the upcoming flagship phone. Not long ago, a Galaxy S25 Ultra interface mockup revealed the new One UI 7 control center.
S25 Ultra with One UI 7 mockup. | Image credit – Ice Universe
One UI 7 is shaping up to be one of Samsung's biggest updates yet, with some major changes to both the interface and design. You can look forward to a redesigned lock screen, updated overview screen, a split Notification Panel and Quick Settings, new battery features, and new Galaxy AI features.
Galaxy AI, which debuted with the Galaxy S24 series, is certainly coming back with the Galaxy S25, too. The S25 Ultra will undoubtedly be the best way to experience Samsung's planned enhancements to generative on-device and cloud-based artificial intelligence.
Galaxy AI is one of our favorite new features of this year's Galaxy lineup. We hope that Galaxy AI not only sticks, but also blooms to future Galaxy phones, such as the S25 Ultra.
Thanks to Samsung's new seven-year software support policy, we certainly know that the upcoming phone will be supported for at least seven years. This means the Galaxy S25 Ultra could be supported until 2032. This includes both major Android updates as well as security patches.
Thanks to Samsung's new seven-year software support policy, we certainly know that the upcoming phone will be supported for at least seven years. This means the Galaxy S25 Ultra could be supported until 2032. This includes both major Android updates as well as security patches.
And speaking of updates, recently, a new leak suggested that Samsung might adopt a new way for delivering those updates. The Galaxy S25 series could be Samsung's first flagship to feature seamless A/B software updates. This could result in a smoother user experience, allowing users to continue using their device while the phone updates in the background.
Galaxy S25 Ultra hardware and expected specs
Display
Size
Technology
Dynamic AMOLED
Refresh rate
120Hz
Screen-to-body
90.30 %
Peak brightness
2600 cd/m2 (nit)
Features
HDR support, Scratch-resistant glass, Ambient light sensor, Proximity sensor
Hardware
System chip
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4
Processor
GPU
Yes
RAM
Internal storage
256GB, not expandable
OS
Android (14)
Battery
Capacity
5000 mAh
Charging
Fast charging
Camera
Rear
Quad camera
Main camera
Specifications
Aperture size: F1.7
Focal length: 24 mm
Sensor size: 1/1.3"
Pixel size: 0.6 μm
Focal length: 24 mm
Sensor size: 1/1.3"
Pixel size: 0.6 μm
Second camera
50 MP (Telephoto, Periscope, OIS, PDAF)
Specifications
Optical zoom: 5.0x
Aperture size: F3.4
Focal Length: 111 mm
Aperture size: F3.4
Focal Length: 111 mm
Third camera
10 MP (Telephoto, OIS, PDAF)
Specifications
Optical zoom: 3.0x
Aperture size: F2.4
Focal Length: 67 mm
Sensor size: 1/3.52"
Pixel size: 1.12 μm
Aperture size: F2.4
Focal Length: 67 mm
Sensor size: 1/3.52"
Pixel size: 1.12 μm
Fourth camera
12 MP (Ultra-wide, PDAF)
Specifications
Aperture size: F2.2
Focal Length: 13 mm
Sensor size: 1/2.55"
Pixel size: 1.4 μm
Focal Length: 13 mm
Sensor size: 1/2.55"
Pixel size: 1.4 μm
Video recording
7680x4320 (8K UHD) (30 fps), 3840x2160 (4K UHD) (120 fps), 1920x1080 (Full HD) (240 fps)
Front
12 MP
Video capture
3840x2160 (4K UHD) (60 fps)
Design
Dimensions
(162.82 x 77.65 x 8.25 mm)
Materials
Back: Glass (Corning Gorilla Glass)
Frame: Titanium
Frame: Titanium
Resistance
Yes; IP68
Biometrics
Ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint
Features
Stylus
Cellular
5G
Bands mmWave, 5G Ready
See the full Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra specs comparison or compare them to other phones using our Phone Comparison Tool.
As mentioned earlier, we are mostly certain the Galaxy S25 Ultra will come with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite. Built by TSMC, the chip was officially announced in October 2024.
The two performance cores on the Snapdragon 8 Elite are clocked as high as 4GHz. That is a serious upgrade over the 3.3GHz of the Cortex-X4 of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
Additionally, a leaked GeekBench 6 benchmarking test claims that the Snapdragon 8 Elite shows a substantial improvement in GPU energy efficiency and a leap in CPU performance.
While Samsung typically equips its flagships with either Snapdragon or Exynos chips depending on the region, such a split has never occurred with its Ultra models. So, we think an Exynos-powered Galaxy S25 Ultra is just a mirage.
Should you wait for the Galaxy S25 Ultra?
- You should wait for the Galaxy S25 Ultra if you are using an older phone and have held off from upgrading to the Galaxy S23 Ultra or the Galaxy S24 Ultra. While it is too early to say for sure, the S25 Ultra shows potential to become a significant improvement that is worth waiting for until early 2025.
- You should not wait for the Galaxy S25 Ultra if you use a Galaxy S23 Ultra or a Galaxy S24 Ultra. Even if you use an older device, be it a non-Galaxy Android or an iPhone, unless you need a top-of-the-line Android phone with potentially numerous AI features, the Galaxy S25 Ultra may not be the right pick for you.
Latest Galaxy S25 Ultra Rumors
Galaxy S25 Ultra prototype highlights design detail lifted from Galaxy S24
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra leaked dummy units reveal rounded corners and new design details
Galaxy S25 leaked release date for January 5? No, I don’t think so
Latest renders show Galaxy S25 Ultra in four rumored colors with less imposing "softer" design
More Galaxy S25 series colors leak out alongside renders of previously rumored 'sparkling' hues
American Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra's processor speed gains get benchmarked
Galaxy S25 Ultra design doesn't look radically different from S24 Ultra in leaked image
Galaxy S25 series could be Sammy's first flagship to use seamless A/B software updates
Despite poor yields, Samsung would prefer to pack the Galaxy S25, S25+ with the Exynos 2500 AP
I'm allergic to the upcoming Galaxy S25 Ultra, but that display might just convert me
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