Samsung
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Wishlist: 7 essential features for the next big phone
The Samsung Galaxy S series has always been at the forefront of innovation, setting benchmarks for what premium smartphones should offer. With the Galaxy S25 Ultra on the horizon, the expectations are sky-high. Here’s an in-depth list of desired enhancements that might position the Galaxy S25 Ultra as the top smartphone for 2025.
1. Design:
There’s a lot of rumor that Samsung might switch to a flat screen, but with rounded corners, mirroring the style of the Galaxy Note 20. This design doesn’t just look sharp; it’s also more comfortable to hold and helps prevent annoying accidental touches along the edges. Plus, using a titanium frame makes the phone tougher yet lighter, giving it a high-end look.
2. Display:
The Galaxy S24 Ultra has one of the best displays in the world. There should be a brighter screen on the Galaxy S25 Ultra and other S25 devices: With competitors pushing display brightness, an upgrade to a display capable of reaching up to 3000 to 3,200 nits would be a welcome feature, ensuring visibility even in the brightest sunlight.
There’s a rumor that the bezels might be under 1.2mm, it would make the phone look even better and give you more screen space to work with, which is something I’ve always valued during my review time.
Based on official information, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra has a display with a peak brightness of 2,600 nits, which is quite impressive for visibility in bright environments like direct sunlight. However, for practical purposes, the S24 Ultra’s 2,600 nits already provide excellent outdoor visibility.
3. Performance:
Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset with its custom Oryon cores could provide unprecedented performance for Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra, potentially surpassing the A18 Pro in Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro.
The latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset comes with significant advancements in both power efficiency and AI capabilities, making it a game-changer for smartphones.
The 8 Elite is reported to offer a 44-46% increase in power efficiency compared to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, the chipset featured in the Galaxy S24 Ultra, thanks to a 3nm process.
Improvement in power efficiency means that devices using the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset could offer longer battery life or maintain performance at lower power consumption levels, which is crucial for smartphones where battery life is a significant concern.
The chipset introduces Qualcomm’s custom Oryon CPU, designed to handle complex, multimodal AI tasks efficiently. It offers up to 12 times the AI performance of its predecessor, important for real-time AI features like object recognition, language processing, and more.
In addition to the latest chipset, increasing the RAM capacity to 16GB in the Galaxy S25 Ultra would represent a significant performance enhancement. More RAM allows for smoother operation when switching between apps or running multiple applications simultaneously.
In addition to that, with software updates often increasing system requirements, having more RAM ensures that the device can handle future OS updates and new applications without performance degradation. FYI, the OnePlus 12 already has 16GB of RAM.
4. Camera:
I am looking for an enhanced ultrawide camera. Upgrading to a 50MP sensor for the ultrawide lens would significantly improve low-light photography and dynamic range, areas where previous models (the S24 Ultra has a 12MP UW sensor,) have room for improvement.
The 50MP sensor can significantly enhance low-light photography, allowing for better light gathering, reducing noise, and improving detail in dark or dim conditions. This sensor will capture more detail, which can contribute to a better dynamic range. It will capture scenes with both bright highlights and dark shadows with a lot more accuracy. We have seen the improvement in low-light conditions and dynamic range in the earlier models like the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE.
With the Galaxy S25 Ultra, you’re likely to see improvements in how photos are edited with the AI. The AI might suggest changes or just go ahead and adjust things like color balance and contrast, or even apply effects that it thinks you’d like based on your uses or edited history. There should be a more sophisticated handling of shake and motion blur.
5. Battery and Charging:
I am looking for faster charging in smartphones: While Samsung has maintained 45W charging for its Ultra models, it’s time to step up. Samsung could potentially offer 60W or even higher in some markets, drastically reducing charging times.
Implementing Battery AI could intelligently manage power consumption, learning from user habits to optimize battery life, which would be a significant leap forward in user experience.
Rumors are suggesting that the battery capacity will remain at 4,000 mAh for the Galaxy S25, similar to its predecessor, the S24. The Galaxy S25+ will have a battery capacity of 4,900 mAh, the same as the S24+. The S25 Ultra is rumored to stay at 5,000 mAh, the same as the S24 Ultra.
However, there’s mention of potential enhancements in power efficiency due to the new Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, which might improve battery life indirectly.
6. Software:
With the promise of One UI 7, Samsung could introduce a smoother, more intuitive interface. Features like seamless updates, as seen in the Google Pixel devices, would prevent the need for reboots during updates, enhancing user convenience.
The One UI 7 could bring about features where the phone anticipates user needs without manual inputs, simplifying daily interactions. Samsung has officially confirmed that there will be a new version of One UI with the Galaxy S25 Ultra. There will be up to 7 years of software support for the Galaxy S25 series.
7. Additional Features
A larger vibration motor for better haptic feedback would enrich the tactile experience, something I’ve noticed can significantly affect user interaction, especially in gaming or when using the S Pen.
With the power of new chips, thermal management becomes crucial. A larger vapor chamber for cooling would ensure the device performs optimally even under heavy load.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra has the potential to redefine what we expect from flagship smartphones. From design to performance, and especially in departments like AI integration and camera technology, Samsung could lead the flagship segment. However, all these features are based on leaks, rumors, and the logical progression of technology, so they remain speculative until official announcements.
Disclaimer
This article is purely speculative and based on the latest rumors and leaks about the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. There is no official confirmation from Samsung on these features or specifications. As with any pre-release tech speculation, actual products may differ when launched.
Samsung will roll out Android 15 to Galaxy devices in 2025, and we had a sneak peek of One UI 7.0 at SDC24. Google is already working on the next Android version, which is confirmed to be made available on Pixel phones by June next year.
Meanwhile, Samsung is still working on the Android 15-based One UI 7.0. The Galaxy S24 series will be the first to get it on the Beta channel. Dozens of Galaxy devices are eligible for this major upgrade, forming a big rollout later this year.
Android 15
The new OS entered Developer Preview in February and Public Beta in April. Google released the final version of Android 15 on October 15 for Pixel devices. The Android 15’s QPR Beta activity has also started ahead of the Android 16 Developer Preview.
One UI 7
At SDC24, Samsung teased some One UI 7 changes and features. The Beta Program will start in late 2024, while Stable set to be released next year. The S23 series received One UI 6 Beta in August last year, but this year’s schedule has entirely changed.
The new update focuses on improving device performance and power efficiency. It’s also well-optimized for the artificial intelligence era. Consumers can expect faster app loading, longer battery backup, enhanced security and privacy, and core improvements at the OS level.
One UI 7.0
Samsung held this year’s Developer Conference on October 3. The event’s stage was utilized to introduce new One UI 7 features and enhancements. The company has also showcased advancements in Tizen and SmartThings. Design principles:
- Simple: Aiming for purposeful simplicity across the UI.
- Impactful: Creating a new signature impression for One UI.
- Emotive: Creating UI elements, like a new blur engine, that elicit a positive emotional response from users.
One UI Beta build can be installed on your primary handset, but we prefer avoiding it. Beta isn’t for you if you don’t want to counter bugs and functional errors. Consider waiting till the Stable rollout commences enjoying One UI 6.1.1.
[Most recent development] The first One UI 7 Beta firmware with a build version ending with ZXKB has been spotted on Samsung’s server.
[Read More] Samsung unveils One UI 7 at SDC24
- Samsung confirmed One UI 7 Beta coming in late 2024 and Stable in early 2025.
- The company is exploring a fresh new design across the interface.
- More new Galaxy AI features will be expanded to the A series.
Previous updates:
- [September 20] TM Roh personally supervised the development of One UI 7. He began to pay special attention to the software experience, more than ever before.
- [August 27] Google is unlikely to push the Public Android 15 update in September this year. It’s still working to improve the stability of the new OS, with rollout starting in October.
- [August 5] Samsung insider claims that One UI 7 Beta isn’t coming very soon.
- One UI 7 Beta has not yet been released but various changes have emerged. The software comes with several design changes, separated notification and quick settings, dynamic pill, and more rounded UI elements.
- After the S24 Plus, Samsung’s Android 15 Beta was spotted on Galaxy S22, S23, S23 FE and S21 smartphones.
- One UI 7 Beta is getting tested on the Galaxy S24 series internally. Recently, an S24+ was spotted running the new OS on Geekbench with minor performance improvements.
Google rolled out Android 15 in mid-October and started working on the next version. Samsung is still developing the Android 15-based One UI 7 Beta for Galaxy devices. Rumors suggest that the Beta Program could start early next week.
Following the I/O 2024 event, Android vendors including Xiaomi, OPPO, and OnePlus started Public Beta for their flagships, which Samsung has not joined. The company is still working on kicking off the One UI Beta program.
One UI 6.1.1 is the latest Galaxy skin based on Android 14. The Android 15-based One UI 7 will arrive on many Samsung devices early next year. Samsung’s update policy is pretty clear, making it easy to determine which Galaxy is eligible for the next update.
The Galaxy S24 series will be the first to get One UI 7 Beta by the end of the year. The South Korean tech giant will then expand its Beta activity for other latest flagships including Galaxy Z Fold 6/Flip 6, and some older lineups including but not limited to the Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy Z Flip 5, and Galaxy Z Fold 5.
Check the device list below:
Galaxy S Android 15 Update List
- Galaxy S21
- Galaxy S21+
- Galaxy S21 Ultra
- Galaxy S21 FE
- Galaxy S22
- Galaxy S22+
- Galaxy S22 Ultra
- Galaxy S23
- Galaxy S23+
- Galaxy S23 Ultra
- Galaxy S23 FE
- Galaxy S24
- Galaxy S24+
- Galaxy S24 Ultra
- Galaxy S24 FE
Galaxy Z Android 15 Update List
- Galaxy Z Flip 3
- Galaxy Z Flip 4
- Galaxy Z Flip 5
- Galaxy Z Fold 3
- Galaxy Z Fold 4
- Galaxy Z Fold 5
- Galaxy Z Fold 6
- Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition
- Galaxy Z Flip 6
Galaxy Tab Android 15 Update List
- Galaxy Tab A9 / A9+
- Galaxy Tab Active 4 Pro
- Galaxy Tab S8 / S8+ / Tab S8 Ultra
- Galaxy Tab S9 / S9+ / S9 Ultra
- Galaxy Tab S9 FE / S9 FE+
Galaxy A/M/F Android 15 Update List
- Galaxy A06
- Galaxy A05s / A15 / A25 /A35 /A55
- Galaxy A14 / A24 / A34 / A54
- Galaxy A33 / A53 / A73
- Galaxy M14 / F14
- Galaxy M34 / M54 / F54
- Galaxy M35 /M55 / F55
If you don’t find your Galaxy device on the list mentioned above, don’t panic. As the year progresses, we will update the list according to device eligibility. Do note that the list is compiled on previous rollouts, software guarantees, and experience.
The official list will only come when the stable One UI 7 rollout begins next year.
One UI 7.0 is set to elevate your Samsung phone’s battery performance. The company has made significant improvements in Galaxy’s power management. The S24 Ultra lasts even longer than the most premium iPhone in certain conditions. The upcoming One UI version is said to bring some extraordinary improvements to your Galaxy’s battery life.
Credible Samsung leaker SamsonSir confirmed insane battery life improvements in One UI 7.0. It shows the company is not only working on interface revamp, but also intends to foster the battery performance of your Galaxy.
Galaxy S23 Ultra and S24 Ultra set battery life benchmarks in the Android world. All thanks to Snapdragon chips and well-optimized One UI software. The upcoming One UI 7.0 update is expected to bring notable improvements.
Background process management
Flagship Galaxy smartphone users often use multiple apps at the same time. Samsung’s RAM management allows them to start right from where they left off using the app. It leads to many apps remaining open in the Recents section.
The One UI 7.0 reportedly optimized the background process. It’s a key aspect which greatly impacts on the battery’s performance. If unnecessary background processes are hibernated, the battery life will increase significantly.
Galaxy AI could play a key role in understanding which app’s process should be limited. This way, the software will use less power from the Galaxy’s battery. However, the Beta builds might not show major battery life improvements.
One UI 7 Release Date
Samsung will release the One UI 7 update next year. Beta is coming by the end of the year, but the final version is set to be launched alongside the Galaxy S25 series. As of now, we haven’t heard any genuine input regarding the S25 series launch date.
Going by Samsung’s history, the Galaxy S25 series could launch in January or February next year. We’ve created dedicated pages to track the upcoming Galaxy S25 series’ specifications and price, which you can access here.