There was a time when Samsung introduced new S Pen features every year (like quick off-screen memos from the lock screen). Now, the S25 Ultra's S Pen no longer has Bluetooth connectivity. This means no longer using it as a remote control for presentations or as a camera shutter button.

Over a year since it dipped into generative artificial intelligence, Samsung’s Galaxy S-series phones are now the vanguard for its gen-AI features. This year, we’re getting even deeper hooks into Google’s Gemini AI assistant and more built-in software tricks than ever before.

On the surface, it looks like Samsung did the bare minimum to release a new flagship phone. However, once you spend time with the Galaxy S25 Ultra, you'll