Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: The Best Choice for S Pen Users Despite Feature Reductions

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Samsung is set to launch its highly anticipated Galaxy S25 series on January 22, and as excitement builds, leaks and rumors reveal intriguing details about the flagship models. While many expect significant upgrades, a notable change has emerged, potentially disappointing some loyal fans.

Secure Your Galaxy S25 Ultra Pre-Order!

Samsung has initiated a pre-reservation campaign for the Galaxy S25 Ultra! By reserving your unit, you'll receive a $50 Samsung Credit, alongside an entry into a sweepstakes for a $5,000 Samsung Credit prize. Additionally, there are opportunities for up to $1,250 more through enhanced trade-in offers!
Reports indicate that the S Pen integrated into the high-end model will not support Bluetooth connectivity, omitting features like remote control for various functions and air gesture controls. While this might disappoint many, if you're keen on a flagship with an S Pen, the Galaxy S25 Ultra stands out as a top option.

Understanding the Impact of Bluetooth on S Pen Functionality

A Shift from Optional to Essential
The Galaxy S22 Ultra was the pioneer in the Galaxy lineup to include a built-in stylus. | Image credit – PhoneArena
  • Control presentations
  • Manage music playback
  • Capture photos
  • Toggle camera settings
  • Zoom functionality
Air Actions allow users to manage their device with gestures made through the S Pen. | Image credit – PhoneArena
As Samsung proceeds with the Galaxy S25 Ultra, these intuitive features may be missing. While dedicated users might feel let down, many casual stylus users typically rely on basic functions such as note-taking–a non-Bluetooth S Pen effectively caters to these needs. The Galaxy S25 Ultra will still deliver remarkable capabilities, including:
  • AI-supported handwriting conversion, complete with formatting, spellchecking, and translation
  • Smart Select for screenshot capturing
  • Artistic endeavors with Screen off memo or Samsung Notes
  • Circle to Search function for enhanced screen navigation
For those set on the Galaxy S25 Ultra and its S Pen, this may still feel like a downgrade, yet it might remain the ideal choice for stylus enthusiasts.

Stylus Phones: Choices Remain Limited

The Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) includes a built-in stylus, but it simply cannot compete with the S Ultra models. | Image credit – PhoneArena
Stylus-equipped smartphones are not easy to find. Outside of Samsung's Galaxy S Ultra range, options are limited to devices like the foldable Galaxy Z Fold 6, which offers an optional S Pen but lacks built-in storage. The Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) is another contender, but it falls significantly short when compared to the premium specifications and features of the Galaxy S24 Ultra and the upcoming S25 Ultra.

The Potential Reason Behind this S Pen Change

Perhaps the transition away from Bluetooth functionality in the S Pen is an indication that Samsung has alternative means of interaction in mind for the Galaxy S25 series. Similar to Huawei's gesture controls showcased in their Mate 70 series, Samsung might be working on a new interaction method that could even involve Galaxy AI—aiming for advancements in smartphone AI capabilities. Imagine activities like flipping through slides, adjusting music, or snapping selfies—all manageable with simple hand gestures, which could be feasible given how palm gestures are already recognized on Android. While it may seem unlikely for now, there’s potential for these capabilities in the future.
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