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Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge Review: Unmatched Slimness at Its Finest

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hSamsung aims for a sleeker, lighter design with the specialized edge version of the premium Galaxy S25 Android.


The S25 edge measures 5.8mm in thickness, making it remarkably thin—if you disregard the camera bump, it is a whole 1.5mm slimmer than its S25+ counterparts, equating to roughly the thickness of a stack of seven credit cards. Its weight of just 168g adds to the illusion of slimness, making it feel lighter than the specifications may imply.

The ultra-thin model sits between the £999 S25+ and the £1,249 S25 Ultra, being around £100 pricier compared to other 6.7-inch models from Samsung.




Despite its ultra-slim build, the S25 edge maintains a similar appearance to other prominent Samsung models on the screen side. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The expansive, high-quality 6.7-inch OLED display is vibrant, sharp, and fluid, featuring a quick fingerprint scanner integrated into the screen. The lightweight design allows for comfortable handling, though using it typically requires both hands. Adding a case can eliminate the slimness advantage, making it advisable to use it without one.

The device shares many traits with the other Samsung models, powered by Qualcomm’s top-tier Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, ample RAM, and a minimum of 256GB storage. It swiftly navigates through apps and games, thanks to Samsung’s Android 15 (One UI 7), which offers numerous customization options, though some default settings mirror Apple’s iOS more closely than one might expect.

Packed with advanced AI tools from Google and Samsung, some features, like image editing, shine, while others can be overlooked. The notification bar and live notifications displaying ongoing tasks, such as playing music via Spotify, prove to be extremely handy, appearing prominently on lock and home screens.

Samsung will extend software updates for the Edge until May 31, 2032, ranking it among the longest-supported mobile devices on the market.




The camera array protrudes from the back of the S25 edge, increasing the overall thickness of the device. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Specifications

  • Screen: 6.7-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X 120Hz

  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Galaxy Elite

  • RAM: 12GB

  • Storage: 256 or 512GB

  • Operating System: One UI 7 (Android 15)

  • Camera: 200MP + 12MP 0.6x; 12MP front

  • Connectivity: 5G, USB-C, WiFi 7, NFC, Bluetooth 5.4, UWB, GNSS

  • Water Resistance: IP68 (1.5m for 30 minutes)

  • Size: 158.2 x 75.6 x 5.8mm

  • Weight: 163g




Charging the S25 Edge to full takes about 80 minutes, reaching 50% in just 26 minutes with a USB-C power adapter of 25W or more (not included). Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The Edge’s remarkably thin form comes with certain compromises, the most notable being its smaller battery, which has a capacity slightly less than that of the regular S25. Consequently, the Edge’s battery life is somewhat short for a large device. It can last about a day and a half with light usage, meaning daily monitoring is advisable, though it falls behind the S25 Ultra by approximately a day.

Additionally, it may run warmer than other Samsung devices during gaming sessions, potentially affecting battery performance when playing demanding titles like Fortnite.

Camera




The Samsung Camera App is user-friendly, and the lightweight S25 edge facilitates one-handed photography. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Another significant trade-off for the slim design is in the camera setup. The rear features only two cameras, lacking the telephoto sensor found in the other S25 series models.

The primary camera is a stellar 200 megapixel unit closely resembling the one on the S25 Ultra. It offers superior performance compared to the 50MP main sensors of the S25 and S25+, capturing excellent images across various conditions, and compensating for the absence of a dedicated telephoto sensor with its capable digital zoom. The 12MP Ultra Wide Camera is robust and suitable for close-up shots, complemented by a commendable selfie camera.

The camera app features the same extensive mode array as other S25 variants, delivering impressive video quality and ease of use. Overall, the main camera stands out excellently; if you don’t require true zoom capabilities, it may well suffice for your imaging needs.

Sustainability




The titanium chassis and hardened glass exude sturdiness despite the phone’s considerable dimensions. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

While Samsung does not specify the battery’s expected lifespan, it is designed to endure more than 500 full charge cycles while retaining at least 80% of its original capacity.

The device is generally repairable; screen replacement at an authorized service center costs £259 and includes battery replacement. Samsung also offers a self-healing program.

The phone integrates recycled materials, and Samsung runs a trade-in, recycling scheme for older devices. The company publishes annual sustainability reports and impact assessments for select products.

Price

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge is priced from £1,099 (€1,259/$1,099/A$1,849).

In comparison, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is £1,249, the S25+ is £999, and the S25 is £799. Google’s Pixel 9 Pro XL is priced at £799, OnePlus 13 at £899, while Apple’s iPhone 16 Plus is also £899.




Despite its lightweight and design, the S25 Edge remains a large device, challenging to maneuver with one hand without grips or handles. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Verdict

The S25 Edge represents a fascinating direction for Samsung. Many users might wish for slimmer, longer-lasting devices with better cameras. Most tend to use cases, quickly negating slight differences in thickness that premium models boast.

However, using the Edge brought attention to just how bulky modern large phones can feel. It offers a remarkably light experience, whether cradled in hand or stashed in a pocket, all while featuring a substantial high-resolution display. The battery life isn’t stellar, but it isn’t a complete dealbreaker for extended days of typical use.

While the main camera performs admirably, the absence of a versatile telephoto lens may disappoint some users. I felt its lack. Additionally, while the titanium frame seems robust, subjecting it to stress tests is something I wouldn’t recommend if it’s placed in my back pocket.

The S25 Edge boasts high-quality hardware. If you’re seeking a lighter, thinner phone with a larger display, this could be your pick. However, for those who prioritize other features, better alternatives from Samsung and competitors abound at this price point.

Pros: Stunning large display, ultra-lightweight design, exceptionally thin, outstanding main camera, quick fingerprint reader, superb software with 7 years of support, high-end Android chipset, and advanced AI features.

Cons: Lacks telephoto lens, relatively short battery life, premium price, and its benefits diminish with a case.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Review of Samsung Galaxy S25: The Last Remaining Top Tier Android in a Compact Size from Samsung

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tHe could be the smallest and cheapest line of Samsung’s new Galaxy S25 line to buy, offering it to lessen top performance and latest AI features, and mini Android is still great It’s proof.

Unlike the previous generation of Samsung’s smaller models sold in the UK and Europe, the regular S25 has the same top-flight chip as the huge and expensive ultra models.

The rest of the S25 has not changed significantly since last year. It still has a great 6.2-inch screen, three cameras on the back, flat aluminum sides, and front and rear glass. This makes it the most compact of high-end Android phones that compete with Apple’s iPhones at a size that others, including Google’s Pixel 9, are steadily growing.




The regular S25 is significantly smaller and lighter than the S25 Ultra’s Superphone siblings. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Samsung is good for squeezing solids for 37 hours from the S25, but the smaller battery is most modern Android. It was generally used with a mixture of 5G and WiFi, and actively using the screen for more than six hours to charge the phone every other day. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chip makes the S25 one of the fastest mobile phones, perfect for gaming, but also densely packs battery life.

AI Upgrade

All major changes to the S25 are software and AI-based. Runs one UI 7 (Android 15) with the same latest version as the S25 Ultra. This includes a variety of new AI tools that extend the writing, summarization, and drawing tools introduced last year.

Most of the new tools are designed to find the information you need in advance and predict what you want to do to perform multiple complex tasks on your phone via text or voice commands.




Gemini replaces Bixby and Google Assistant on the S25, and is far more capable. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Google’s Next Generation Gemini Assistant It’s the biggest upgrade, allowing you to interact with information from the mobile phone’s web and apps without having to manually tap on a button. Ask you to date your calendar from the party invitation flyer that you have been texted and it can do so. Find restaurant recommendations and send them to friends as dinner suggestions with simple voice commands. You can also understand what’s on the screen from text, photos, and videos to answer questions, find more information, and take actions.

When it works, it can almost become magical. But you can’t rely on getting things right every time. It can lead to trivial things like spelling different names. It also allows you to confidently hallucinate information that is clearly visible at first glance, but is actually completely wrong. Neither Google nor Samsung have solved these basic issues that plague all AI bots at this time.

Samsung’s New “now” bar at the bottom of the lock screen It’s more successful as a useful place to see timely information widgets, timers, media play controls, and other useful bits. You can swipe through those stacks to see what’s going on and quickly change tracks.

Samsung supports S25 with software and security updates Seven years since releasematches the best from Google and Apple.

specification

  • Main screen: 6.2in ​​FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X 120Hz

  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Galaxy Elite

  • Ram: 12GB

  • Storage: 128, 256, or 512GB

  • operating system: 1 UI 7 (Android 15)

  • camera: 50mp + 12mp 0.6x + 10mp 3x; 12MP front

  • Connectivity: 5G, USB-C, WiFi 7, NFC, Bluetooth 5.4, UWB, GNSS

  • water resistance: IP68 (1.5m in 30 minutes)

  • size: 146.9 x 70.5 x 7.2mm

  • Weight: 162g

Sustainability




The S25 has wireless and USB-C charging, reaching 50% full power in 25 minutes for over an hour (power adapter not included). Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Samsung doesn’t provide the battery with the expected lifespan, but it should last more than 500 full charge cycles at least 80% of its original capacity.

The phone is Generally repairable. Screen repair Costs £149 by an authorized service center Includes battery replacement. Samsung also offers a Self-healing program.

Mobile phones contain multiple recycled materials such as aluminum, cobalt, copper, glass, gold, plastic, rare earth elements, and steel. Samsung offers trade-in Recycling scheme For old devices. The company is open to Annual Sustainability Report and affects impact assessments Some individual products.

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camera




Three cameras on the back, including a 3x telephoto camera, will boost Apple and Google’s dual camera rivals to the S25. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The S25 has a triple camera setup with a 50-megapixel main, 12MP Ultra Wade, and 10MP 3X telephoto. This hasn’t really changed since the 2022 S22 and is the exact same combination as last year’s model.

That is, you generally take very good photos with three cameras. The main is the best and can produce some great shots, but it tends to over-brighten some scenes, and highlights are blown away, such as bright direct light washing people’s shots. Masu. The S24 has improved the zoom by 2x and is slightly more detailed, but the 3x zoom is solid, but out of reach compared to the average 5x camera, a slightly more expensive rival there is. The Ultrawide is equally solid, closing off a great but less groundbreaking package.

The S25 also shoots excellent videos, excellent portraits, and features many modes with one exception. There is no macro photography mode. This is a shame. Overall, the S25 has a great camera system. It’s not a problem with the Pixel 9 Pro or iPhone 16 Pro, but it’s perfect for size and money.

price

Samsung Galaxy S25 Cost £799 (€919/$799.99/$1,399).
Source: www.theguardian.com

Review of Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: Dominance achieved by Samsung

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Ultra is Samsung’s biggest and largest mobile phone, packed gills with the latest technology. This means more artificial intelligence than ever before.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra leads the new wave of Android phones that promise to do it all. Combining Google’s advanced AI support with various Samsung tools for writing, drawing, photography, and chat.

However, at £1,249 (€1,449/$1,299.99/$2,149), the reality is slightly less futuristic than expected. While some AI tools can be impressive, others may falter.

The S25 Ultra is a modern glass slab enclosed in a titanium band. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The Ultra boasts a slimmer design, 14g lighter than its predecessor, with sharp flat sides and minimal bezels on a large, breathtaking screen. It is nearly a glass slab with a vibrant display.

It features the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Chip, outpacing even the recent OnePlus 13 in performance tests. The chip’s performance is remarkable, enabling users to accomplish tasks smoothly on the phone. With a battery life lasting two full days of moderate use and 7.5 hours of active usage on tasks like photography and media, the Ultra stands out as one of the longest-lasting devices on the market.

specification

  • Main screen: 6.9 inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X (500PPI) 120Hz

  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Galaxy Elite

  • Ram: 12GB

  • Storage: 256, 512GB or 1TB

  • operating system: 1 UI 7 (Android 15)

  • camera: 200mp + 50mp 0.6x + 10mp 3x + 50mp 5x; 12MP front

  • Connectivity: 5G, USB-C, WiFi 7, NFC, Bluetooth 5.4, UWB, GNSS

  • water resistance: IP68 (1.5m in 30 minutes)

  • size: 162.8 x 77.6 x 8.2mm

  • Weight: 218g

Sustainability

Samsung claims that the S25 Ultra is The most durable ever, although a case is still recommended for drops. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Samsung does not specify the expected battery lifespan, but it is designed to retain at least 80% of its original capacity after 500 full charge cycles.

Phone repairs are possible, with screen replacements costing £204 at authorized service centers, including battery replacement. Samsung also offers a self-healing program. The phone scored 5 out of 10 for repairability by experts at iFixit.

The device contains recycled materials such as aluminum, cobalt, copper, glass, gold, plastic, rare earth elements, and steel. Samsung provides a trade-in recycling scheme for old devices. The company also releases annual sustainability reports and impact assessments for some specific products.

More AI in more places

Some new AI tools are useful, while others are a bit gimmicky or unreliable. The Drawing Assist tool turns rough sketches into art (left). Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Samsung has integrated numerous “Galaxy AI” tools, including new drawing features and AI selection tools introduced last year. These tools allow users to interact with images, text, icons, and more on the screen, offering options like drawing, editing, searching, and more.

The “Now” bar on the lock screen displays various widgets like Google’s Live Sports Score, current music, timers, flight reminders, and more. It resembles Google’s At a Glance feature and Apple’s dynamic widgets, providing convenient access to timely information. Live notifications, such as sports scores, can also be shown in the status bar.

The AI-curated snapshots feature local weather, calendar events, photos, reminders, health information, Spotify playlists, and more. It even warns users about using the phone while walking. However, some may find these features less useful.

The S-pen stylus remains for drawing on the screen, but one of the important selling points since the Galaxy Note series era – the magic wand and the remote feature have been removed. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Introducing the Next Generation of Google’s Gemini Assistant, promising to perform multiple tasks efficiently. While the capabilities are impressive when they work, they can sometimes falter, leading to frustration with inaccuracies. Trusting the AI tools completely can be a challenge.

The overall software experience with One UI 7 is smooth, resembling Apple’s iOS in some aspects but offering enough customization options to personalize the phone’s look and functionality. Samsung’s commitment to providing software and security updates for the S25 Ultra for seven years after release rivals the best support from Google and Apple.

camera

The camera app is fairly easy to operate despite its functionality. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The S25 Ultra features a revamped camera system similar to its predecessor, offering a range of options from the main 200mp camera to various telephoto lenses. The new and improved 50MP Ultra Wide Camera provides better low-light performance compared to previous models, producing sharper images in dimly lit environments.

Equipped with numerous modes and tools, including portrait modes and manual controls, the camera app allows users to capture unique and high-quality photos. The standout feature remains the adaptability to use multiple lenses for different scenarios, offering versatility in photography.

price

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra starts at £1,249 (€1,449/$1,299.99/A$2,149) with 256GB of storage.

Comparatively, the Galaxy S25 is priced at £799, the S25+ at £999, the Z-fold 6 at £1,519, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL at £1,099. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is priced at £1,199.

verdict

The Galaxy S25 Ultra sets a high standard for Android phones with its powerful features and versatility.

Boasting multiple lens options in the camera system, top-of-the-line Android chip, long battery life, expansive storage, a large screen, and a stylus, the Ultra offers a complete package for users.

However, while it excels in many areas, the design and lack of significant innovation may leave some users wanting more. The AI features, while impressive at times, can also be hit or miss, affecting the overall user experience.

The Ultra stands out as a top-tier mobile phone, but buyers should temper their expectations regarding exaggerated AI capabilities.

Strong Points: A massive 120Hz screen, a highly capable camera with 3x optical zoom, excellent software with 7 years of support, top android chip, long battery life, access to the latest AI features.

Cons: The huge and extremely expensive S-Pen doesn’t have the small magic of the previous version, and does not significantly improve the formula of its predecessor.

< Source: www.theguardian.com