Is The Old Galaxy Really Better?

#samsunggalaxys25ultra #galaxys25ultra #galaxys24ultra #comparison
Upgrading your phone every year is NOT normal behavior. A recent study shows that consumers on average wait more than two years, and that has even extended to three on years where either smartphones got crazy expensive, thank you iPhone X, or now that inflation has thrown a wrench on buying power.
Still, it's not that companies don't try. The US is one of those countries where companies make it incredibly enticing to pull the yearly trigger. Right now you can get up to a $900 discount on a brand new Galaxy S25 Ultra along with a free storage upgrade if you trade-in a last year's S24 Ultra in good condition. If you do the math that's actually more of an $1100 discount, but there's a catch to make it impulsive. The deal only lasts during this pre-order period, and you bet this is far less attractive if this is an S23 Ultra, or nearly half the offer if you behave like most consumers. The question is if it's even worth it? Has the Galaxy S25 Ultra changed enough to warrant that $400 premium? Heck, what if some of those changes go against things you care about? There's only one way to find out.
On one corner we have the Galaxy S25 Ultra, what Samsung calls as Simple, Impactful, and what I'm gonna call my favorite Ultra design since its inception. On the other we have the Galaxy S24 Ultra, what some called the best phone of 2024, even if in all honestly, it was my least favorite. I'm Jaime Rivera and let's see which phone is actually better in our full comparison.

[@Antonis24]

Samsung hasn't given me a reason to upgrade from my S23U. Such a great phone.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Yeah that was a great Ultra but not my favorite camera in low light

[@cs-ge5kx]

With the trade-in deals and the credit they giving you yeah there's a reason to upgrade

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Totally

[@anoaklandsir]

I'm still rocking my S23+ and it's been a great phone to me. I see no need to upgrade.

[@iamashamanama3712]

That phone is only 2 years old, why would you even consider upgrading it anyway??? I upgraded from my Note 9. My brother just upgraded from a s21 ultra. If you have an s23 you’ve gotta wait for the s27 at least.

[@potatoraph]

S24 Ultra's design looks more expensive and I love the pointed corners. Also I love using my S Pen as shutter button so I am sticking to it.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

I do like how it reminds me of a Lumia from the front

[@senatormarrero]

I agree with you but S25 ultra feels much better in the hand and feels lighter. Loss of shutter button on S Pen hurts 😢

[@sdmoore89]

S25 ultra feels better. I do miss the shutter button even though I hadn't really used it since the note 9.

[@anoaklandsir]

The sharp corners were a bad idea for comfort. Happy they are gone and hope they never come back.

[@pacman1789]

​@@anoaklandsirUnless you use a case and then it doesn't really matter.

[@josemora9666]

Well the s pen 🖊 made me keep the s24 ultra

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Yeah I totally get it. It’s not a feature I used much, but I don’t like steps back

[@NavrajRajLostSouls]

Good for another 3 years atleast bro.

[@txkingg]

I upgrade every year, I spend 200-400 once a year after selling or trading in my phone. Is that really worse than spending 1200 every 3 or 4 years? Not to mention I get free stuff like cases, screen protectors or earbuds I sell and offset some of the upgrade cost

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Exactly. This year I feel the trade ins are worth it again

[@darrellsimon4462]

Interesting way to approach it

[@katinasoutherland7693]

Good point. Yet most don't see it this way. Yet if your old phone was in good condition after 2 or 3 years, it wouldn't cost you $1300 😉 have you seen what Samsung is willing to give for an s22U? I think in the end you're paying more.

[@txkingg]

@@katinasoutherland7693 maybe if you don't count the accessory offset

[@txkingg]

Maybe I spend more money if you don't count the accessory offset, but no one needs a ultra phone. We could all do with a a15 or whatever they are at now. So maybe don't watch my pockets and worry about your own 😉

[@jamesgresavage3951]

Still rocking my S23U for the superior zoom and I prefer the subtle curves of the screen for a better hand feel without a case.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Oddly I didn’t really love the processing on that one

[@alcawmk]

If I'm upgrading from my s220 ultra it's going to have to be the s24 ultra. The fact that they dismantled the Bluetooth S pen is a deal breaker for me. And who the hell did they get with on who uses the S pen Bluetooth capability?? That was the game changer! People were upgrading from an iPhone to an s25 won't notice the difference. However those of us who have the s22 and higher will notice it quite a bit.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Yeah I really don’t understand why the company took steps back on a new phone, considering how much technology has evolved since the Galaxy Note 9 that debuted this

[@sajeshyesodharan5059]

​​@@JaimeRiveraTech may be to drop few grams by removing the bluetooth module and battery.

[@omnimo]

I've been upgrading my Note every year since its conception. This is the first time I dont feel compelled to upgrade from 24 to 25.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

What's making you hold back?

[@ckezong]

I upgraded every year since the s21 u. But i am sick of samsung short changing us. I can say from a every day User not much difference is there and functionality is taken away . The S24u's zoom capabilities were worse than the S23 ultra. Now the S pen functionality is degraded. No bigger battery, no faster charging, camera upgrade won't be noticeable in everyday use. So what's the point? Since most of us slap on a case and a screen protector, the new designs are hardly felt normally.

[@lorenzowashington5546]

Same here, but I ordered it anyway. The biggest changes I noticed right away is the weight. The weight and feel in the hand is night and day.

[@brando3424]

It's obviously a no brainer to not upgrade from the s24 to the s25. It's for people who have the S22 ultra and below. Not sure why everyone's making a big deal about annual upgrades lol

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

You don’t think the trade-in deals are worth it?

[@patrislatifi3059]

​@@JaimeRiveraTech have the s24 ultra currently. No need to upgrade. My brother already bought it and compared them both. Didn't impress me much. So in short if you have s23\s24 ultra there is no need to upgrade unless you want. But that's on you.

[@smug_slime]

@@patrislatifi3059 i'd guess you buy it full price with no trade in value. that is the best customer to Samsung

[@S-I-R-E]

​@@JaimeRiveraTechyou pointed out the deals don't last after the pre order/ early bird period yet that is your one justification for it? Those deals don't exist here and your videos are watched globally. Although you didn't just drool over the thing like most other KZbinrs have done, I can't get past the fact that everyone is trying to justify Samsung with the almost no real substance. You're not being as critical enough toward the thing in relation to it's price and lack of competitive nature. I'm sorry Mr Rivera, I can't stick with your channel anymore.

[@brando3424]

@@S-I-R-E that's an extreme overcorrection

[@josesabat1710]

I upgraded from the s23 ultra to the s25 ultra and dont regret it. It feels like a different phone. ❤

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

That was a good upgrade

[@jesusnavarrete6317]

They know they got you because of the Trade ins😂

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

It’s really hard to argue with the proposition indeed 🤣🤣

[@TechwithChris]

I switched for a bit from the Z Fold 6 to the S25 Ultra and I gotta say myself it's refreshing to go back to a normal slab phone. Having a stylus built in over one sold separately is absolutely incredible. Adding Pen sound effects from good luck makes it very fun. Can't wait to give my review next week!

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Haha, haven't tried those sounds. Thanks for pointing it out. Will look into it.

[@NavrajRajLostSouls]

My s22U looks so beautiful, with curved edges and perfect rectangle design, treat to see the phone. I am not sure if i will upgrade after 3 years. Lets see if discounts come after 3-4 months as sales are goign to be low this time.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

I think that was the best Ultra with those color options.

[@daledevernon56]

People don't purchase a phone based purely on ergonomics, what you are experiencing is the new car smell, just give it a month or so and it'll feel exactly the same as the s24 Ultra, because it is.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Haha I never had that honeymoon phase with the Galaxy S24 Ultra. I struggled to understand that upgrade, so much so that I never really reviewed it

[@ckezong]

Since i use a case most of the time, the ' sharp edges' on the S24U never bothered me. I enjoyed the anti glare screen for a week or so, that is till my tempered glass protector arrived with all it's reflective glory😂. Fortunately since i am not a mobile gamer ( i prefer my games on the ps5) more powerful gpu is something I don't notice. One thing is that I just can't take selfies properly 😢. So the bluetooth functionality on the spen was always something i appreciated.

[@johnbowen4222]

I have the zfold 4 i haven't had a new phone since this one came out i just got the s25 ultra. My question is is it worth the price diffrence or should I have just got the 24 ultra?

[@amishbudhathoki]

Hi Jaime ! Where have I seen you before in the past many years ago! Your voice seems so reassuringly expertly opinionated.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

@@amishbudhathokithanks dude. Who knows ,🥹😉🤣

[@AnnesleyPlaceDub70]

I waited 5 years before I upgraded from an S8+ to an S23 Ultra, it made the upgrade seriously satisfying. I'll probably go for a 27 Ultra what with these minor yearly increments. Super upload as ever. 👊🏼👊🏼

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Thanks bud, and wow, that is a major upgrade for you. Curious how that S23 Ultra will age. It was a great phone

[@AnnesleyPlaceDub70]

@@JaimeRiveraTech I'm still rocking it Jaime, haven't felt the need to upgrade just yet. I love my S-Pen functionality, bluetooth especially 🤣.

[@DoctorMustafaSaad]

As someone who upgraded his phone yearly for the last 3 years: it is a stupid thing, i regret it, don't do it folks.. it is stupid..

[@jhonztalk]

used to do that in LG G3 era, but phones were not that high. When I bought my S9+, I used that for 5 years before getting S22U. Unfortunately, it got pickpocketed last Nov so I'm using S9+ again

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Yeah yearly upgrades aren't for everyone. Thanks for your insites dude!

[@jhonztalk]

@@JaimeRiveraTech especially now that OS updates is now between 3-7 years for Android, the only problem left is battery's life cycle. Hopefully what OnePlus used lasts longer now to match the years of updates

[@buscaquehacer]

I'd like to see the Galaxy S25 Ultra going up against OnePlus 13

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

I actually thought that was an unfair comparison… but maybe it’s not? 🤔 But then the S25 Plus might not stand a chance…

[@travisjames9292]

Definitely think price wise it's more accurate to compare it to the s25+. But I think it could definitely punch up to the ultra

[@Dac_DT_MKD]

This year Samsung gave me a reason to upgrade to the S25 Ultra from my 4-year old S20 FE. Planning to use this beast until 2030 at least.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Dude yeah, that’s a MAJOR upgrade

[@Dac_DT_MKD]

@JaimeRiveraTech Yea, it's a major upgrade for me. Especially since I had the Exynos version of S20 FE with no 5G.

[@kostaskintzios1198]

Nice review!So you think from s23u the new s25u is a serious upgrade?I am interested in display, battery charging, night shots and video mainly

[@kai84m]

"Trade in" is no discount, only the part over the value of the old phone can be seen as discount.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Well dude, if you were to try to sell your one-year old Galaxy S24 Ultra with some scratches and dings, you probably wouldn't be able to sell it for $900. Samsung is the only company that makes this process worth while, cause you don't even need to pay for the full phone up front like you have to with Apple.

[@abhijith_mb]

Any particular reason you added "Made by Samsung" tag at 1:27 ? Like, the template for that call-out had to include a text underneath?

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Anything wrong with that?

[@abhijith_mb]

@@JaimeRiveraTech Nothing in particular, just didn't feel like it was necessary. Coz the video isn't discussing any other manufacturer.

[@1TechCritic420]

It’s always been 3 years with iPhone users. SMH. Worked for Apple for 6 years. This KZbin garbage take about whining about how it's not that different than last year’s is such a stupid take. Nobody gives a crap except KZbin watchers. You're not meant to upgrade your dam phone every year. It’s horrible for the environment and a waste. 95% of people could give a crap less because they are upgrading from 3 years or 4 years ago.

[@brando3424]

Honestly, I agree. General public doesn't care. Just the 1% that includes tech savvy users care as much

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Yeah it is kind of a US thing, which I find interesting.

[@katinasoutherland7693]

Very well said. I couldn't agree more!!!

[@RagingBad]

But why are you crying like bi?

[@DoctorMustafaSaad]

Open a channel dude..

[@Blackhonda]

Jaime, what was the model you used the most? I'm curious about that. Great video by the way.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Every Galaxy Note up until the Galaxy Z Fold 2. I also did like the S23 Ultra out of all the Ultra models made.

[@Brown86Power]

Had the S24U and then went to the Fold 6..now thinking of going to the S25U. Held it in hand last night and it was just different in a good way...but then should I wait for the Fold 7 with the larger front screen.

[@robertsaladino]

The speakers are better on 25U this alone is enough for me now add flat sides and rounded corners for better fitting in pants and in hand , yeah I love this phone and yes my 24U screen is shot with white film and smudges that reappear even after wiping it down . If money wasn't an object would we be having this conversation?

[@M_AbdullahArif]

I'm always fascinated by the technological advancements that Samsung does in each iteration and I still follow the launches and reviews of every new galaxy. However, my last galaxy device was the note 8, coming from s7 edge and s6 edge before that all the way to s3, I feel that the new galaxy S devices have lost that spirit that made me love the predecessor flagships. My note 8 was slim, no camera bump, sleek looking, ergonomic in the hand, smooth UI experience and it just felt like Samsung was in touch with it's roots. These days it just feels like everything is inspired by apple, thicker camera bumps (phone cant lay flat on a table and wobbling drives me nuts), extremely overpriced, no charger in the box, removed the IR from s7, removed micro sd, removed 3.5mm jack to sell more wireless accessories, etc. I'm happy to be a OnePlus user now. I still admire Samsung for the tech but I feel that the new S devices let down the legacy of the S flagships of the past. Also, finally someone who acknowledges that the $1k+ price tag on flagships was pioneered by apple, good that you mentioned it, I've been saying that for years because soon after people digested the Iphone X price tag, samsung followed and then other companies, and we should not let that be okay... my decently powered laptop is cheaper than the flagship phones.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

I actually pulled out my Galaxy Note 9 for this comparison. Didn't feature it, but I wanted to get a feel for how much things have changed over time. It's a lot, and as you say, not all for the good.

[@CSpell83]

The production quality of your videos is still awesome. I don't know how you do it with such a small team!

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Appreciate you. Thanks so much!

[@CSpell83]

@JaimeRiveraTech No problem! You (and our favorite Robert Downey Jr. Look-a-like) have been my preferred sources for cellphone news for over a decade. Thanks for all the hard work!

[@BaSiC47]

People complaining that the upgrades are not good enough to upgrade from S24U. Spoiled brats. Meanwhile my S21U is still as good as new and will get Android 15

[@MTBryanH]

Got my s25 Ultra yesterday. Pretty huge improvement over my S22 Ultra. I loved that phone. But the speed, fit, finish and functionality of the S25 is pretty amazing. And some of the photo editing Ai features are freak'n amazing! The AI removal tool blows my mind!

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Oh wow yeah. Completely different. Love that you got one

[@liferjack]

Watching this in my s25 ultra, upgraded from s22 ultra, stellar upgrade, everything feels snappy and very premium, but my s22 ultra still steals the show of just looking premium, the s25 ultra actually is premium

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

It’s crazy how much I loved the color options on that S22 Ultra a lot more. I wish they made a comeback

[@sarthakkumarkar5499]

I have the green 💚 one from India still rocking and have almost the same camera same zooming capabilities same software. I think I will go for the z fold in my next purchase

[@alpha5124]

The s25 ultra is the best Samsung phone I have used. Everything about this gorgeous beast is either perfect or near it.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

I like it a lot as well

[@tljlwilkerson]

Thank you! I agree this is the best ultra! A lot of KZbinrs are complaining and I think they're out of their minds. S25 ultra is totally an upgrade!

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Glad you agree

[@Uncle_Drew0227]

Currently using the S23 Ultra for two Christmases, and it is still a beast of a phone to date. Samsung has really done well supporting older devices by optimizing them with software patches and updates. I did try the S25 Ultra demo in a store near me, and it did not really entice me to upgrade. Yes, the newer model is surely a beast in every aspect, but it does not make me want to upgrade. I will wait for the S26 Ultra and see if it is a great upgrade from the S23 Ultra; if not, then the S27 Ultra would be the one. The trade-in value here in the Philippines is just crazily poor, around $400 for the S23 Ultra, while the S25 Ultra is priced at over $2000 for the 1TB spec and $1600 for the 512GB. As always, superb video, Jaime! Awesome job!

[@MichaelGerard247]

As someone who has never owned an Android phone, I wouldn't mind switching out my iPhone 15 for one of these shiny new S25s!

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

I actually think it's the closest to that experience for sure

[@Grumpytortoise]

I've held off upgrading my almost 7 year old Note 9 until the S25 Ultra came out, but balked when it did. I may be in the minority, but I like the design of the S24U better and the S pen bluetooth functionality removal in the S25U sealed it for me. Bought my S24U a week ago and I don''t regret my decision, but miss the headphone jack and expandable storage of the Note 9. Before my Note 9, I had a Note 4 and miss the removable battery on that one :D My still wonderful Note 9 has been relegated as a backup now. I'm hoping my S24U lasts as long as my N9. If Samsung is so hellbent on neutering the s pen, or God forbid, removing it altogether, they should just revive the Note series with it's iconic pen and continue the S series without it.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

@@Grumpytortoise see now you're pulling out the big guns with that Note 9. How would anyone wanna upgrade from such a beast. Glad you're enjoying the S24 Ultra. It is a great phone in so many ways

[@Grumpytortoise]

@JaimeRiveraTech :D It's a phone that just won't quit, you just get tired of it lol.

[@faizanbaber]

It is better for sure. But will it bring any quality of life improvements if you switch from s22/s23/s24 ultra? At this point there's not much of a design improvements to be wanting a brand new phone.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

It’s a tough one cause it really depends on what you define as quality. It varies for everyone. I expose what I define as quality but I’m curious about your case

[@kakashisuperman9154]

It's not an upgrade of S24U ❌, it's an upgrade of Note9 ✅. As Samsung's downgraded the S25U. No improvement in battery & charging, no charger in the box, POV I don't care about other people but I always like seeing charger in the box if I pay that much. It's just a same device since 2020.

[@coquiangel]

For me, it's about budget, I'm still paying for two S23 ultras, and I only had them for a full year. I'll wait for an S27/8 or maybe try a folder pro.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Which one is the Folder Pro?

[@la3692]

A lot of normal phone customers get it from their provider and their contract two to three years.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Yeah but a lot of these providers and even Samsung provide subscription plans where you can switch phones each year

[@johnbowen4222]

The onlything i hate about the galaxy is that the finger print scanner is on front screen wht can't it be on the back or side like older samsung phones?

[@KmDiljaan]

The RAM is the same as S24U, battery hasn't changed in 2 years and now half cooked S-pen. I resisted buying S24U during the sale season just to buy the new S25U. I am not sure to go for Pixel 9 Pro XL or S25U now 😒

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

I'll be working on that comparison soon, but honestly, I struggle to consider that Pixel 9 Pro. It's behind on so many things

[@KmDiljaan]

@@JaimeRiveraTech I agree. Pixel excels in software updates, quickly bringing AI features to older models while offering free AI tools. For the average buyer, having a phone that stays up to date without subscriptions is crucial. However, the Pixel's price doesn’t quite justify its value.

[@manti1923]

The problem with pretty much most of the phone companies there's not much major they can do with their phones, when they are dropping new models every year, may be drop phones every two years!!!

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Well if you remember, Apple would do S years just to avoid doing a truly new phone every year. It did work for them up until it didn't.

[@technogeek1]

I think the best time to upgrade is when there won't be any software updates available.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Not sure if your phone's battery will last that long, but sure

[@technogeek1]

@JaimeRiveraTech I never had to replace the battery on my old Samsung Galaxy S8+. Still indicates normal status on Samsung's diagnostic tool.

[@ScottSherman1]

I have been waiting 3 years on my last two phones. Previous ones I upgraded every 2 years. But the Note 10+ and the S22 Ultra were good enough to last me three years. I was very happy with the S22 and now I am very happy with my S25 Ultra 1TB. Thank you for the video.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Wow 1TB. Enjoy dude

[@ScottSherman1]

@@JaimeRiveraTech Thank you. The reason was so I could put my whole 26,000 music track collection on one phone with all of the apps and docs and such on my S22 Ultra had.

[@Zeek509]

I can't agree that it's an upgrade. The max trade-in is awesome. But I like to keep my old phone as a backup just in case. So for those NOT trading in, you're paying $1200+ and losing S-pen features for a device that's supposed to be "Ultra." I actually used those features. So I just traded my S22U for the S24U instead.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

I used to do that, until batteries started to expand over time. It was just not worth it for me to keep them.

[@gooner70_ns]

For me with a literally brand new and pristine 512gb S24U in the Uk I still have to pay well over £500 for the trade in. Only getting £540 for my S24U yet in the US you get $900. Even with the currency exchange that's a big difference and so not worth the upgrade - I prefer the S24U Shape love the Bluetooth pen The S26 U will hopefully have the M14 Screen, 16GB of ram and maybe the return on the Bluetooth SPen but not holding my breath on that. Time will tell. Alternatively I will keep my S24 for several years as my previous phone was the S20 U which is still working fine

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Yeah definitely not worth it for you, and you still have a great phone

[@DefinitelyNattox]

The ONLY reason I upgraded to the S25 Ultra from my S23 Ultra is because I got a great trade in deal.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Exactly. You did good

[@vince0896]

Ok. How about between the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and the OnePlus 13?

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Oh dude, wait for that. Comparison coming soon.

[@yankeesusa1]

By the way, i was going to update my s24u because i like rounded corners, but instead i bought a Spigen zero one case and that gave me rounded corners.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

I've heard great things about that case. Spigen knows their stuff.

[@mkzai]

Slight improvement in photo output due to ISP and One Ui 7. Wonder what will happen when the S24U gets One Ui 7

[@HamletM]

Great video. This helped me make my decision as I needed a little push. I have the s24u and purchased the s25u and been using it for a few days (got early). It's been hard making the decision to keep the s25u and trade in the s24u. A few times I was thinking I'll just keep the s24u and save some money but then s25u feels so much better in the hand and I tend to use it more because of how comfortable it is. Was it worth the extra cost just so it feels better in the hand? I think at this I would say yes. Lastly, for some reason to me the s24u feels more premium built than the s25u. Again thanks for the great video and love that you share what you would do.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Glad to hear! Enjoy

[@TheAsifer]

Congrats on the new channel Jaime! Been watching you since 2013 on Pocketnow, you're one of the OG's.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Wow dude! Thanks so much. Appreciate you being here.

[@Sarcasmo-r2u]

I got my s24 plus and year ago today. Heading to year #2 😃

[@recess7]

More KZbinrs need to mention the color science difference between last year's phone and not blindly telling it's the same just because the specs

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

I totally agree. I do wish companies would provide more information on what they changed, cause I can spend hours pixel peeping these photos in a large color-tuned monitor.

[@codelyoko3000]

I had to upgrade from my S23U, the 100x zoom camera stabilizer was malfunctioning, I went to fix it regardless of what it cost due to a vacation trip I had to go to Florida and got told that it was "unrepairable", I went on my trip with a camera that couldn't record or you could've just hear the noise it made, a few weeks later it was showing signs of the battery going bad after the announcement, I did the trade-in in the samsung for the S25U 1TB carrier unlocked with earbuds pro 3, watch 7 and a case all for under $1,058 with the trade in, still hefty but I consider it a good deal since the S25U 1 TB is already $1,600 before taxes, so far I don't regret it

[@ckezong]

Why do I feel, a software 'update ' caused all this. I remember my note 10's s pen stopped working when the S21 u was introduced.

[@coquiangel]

What is the log video feature?

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Log video is a flat video profile that'll give you even more dynamic range in post with special color profiles that are easy to find.

[@ChiefPunisher]

You were taking pictures in my block area. How did you like the TV academy or Tujunga park? I would have said Hi if i saw you. Thanks for the info on the phones by the way. I just picked up the S25 from the Note 10 plus. Also got the Buds 3 Pro and S10 Tablet with the trade in deal on Samsung

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Haha, that's awesome. I'm walking around NoHo all the time.

[@ChiefPunisher]

@@JaimeRiveraTech I'm right behind the Amazon fresh building in North Hollywood. Small world. You should take pics at the Santa Monica pier too or Runyon Canyon or Mullholand dr. I walk around the neighborhood all the time. I wonder why I never saw you. The stunt association is across from the TV academy as well. If i see you walking around, i will make sure to say HI.

[@parthppatel28]

Does s25+ support aptx adaptive? Can you please see in developer options?

[@danrobinson6805]

No. Samsung won't as they have their own adaptive codec

[@parthppatel28]

@danrobinson6805 that's crazy. They use to have it in older phones like s9 plus and s21 fe. So that means you can get a full potential on any premium earbuds using that codec from Samsung unless you're using galaxy earbuds.

[@danrobinson6805]

@@parthppatel28 I believe you are thinking of the original Aptx. Samsung has always done the original aptx and still does. They do not and have not done Aptx Adaptive, Lossless, Snapdragon Sound etc even though they generally have the hardware to so so. They have not paid the licensing fees and instead have gone all in on their original Samsung Scalable Codec and the newer Samsung Seamless Codec which can do even higher "lossless" bitrates (in theory). They likely just won't pay the licensing fees when they've put money into their own codec. Of course, as you've pointed out this also locks you into their ecosystem for best sound quality.

[@parthppatel28]

@@danrobinson6805 thanks a lot for the reply. It gives me insight into what phone to buy. I have Sennheiser momentum 4 tws. I'm thinking between OnePlus 13 vs Samsung s25 plus or ultra. Do you have any suggestions?

[@danrobinson6805]

@@parthppatel28 I should add the Samsung phones also do LDAC so all is not lost for third party headphones if they support LDAC. LDAC is embedded into Android licensing free. LDAC only has licensing fees on the "receiver" side. It's a toss up and I currently actually have both as well as watches and tablets with both companies. I'd say the OP13 screen is better,. I like the software and it has more codec support incl Aptx Adaptive even though they don't advertise it. Samsung has better cameras I'd say ..but it is getting awfully close in processing. The main advantage with the cameras is Samsung has an extra zoom (5x). Samsung also has more years of updates. Alternatively, the OP13 has a much better new style of battery and way faster charging. If you desire something that takes more risks, and is a bit more "interesting" and possibly a bit more flexible in its uses ...go with the OP13. If you value the Samsung ecosystem, a more "figured out" system with only incremental changes, but less bugs to work out, with more guaranteed updates...Samsung Honestly..I don't think you can go wrong with either, just do some research about what's important to you.

[@mattc256]

I’m getting the s25 ultra today the Bluetooth spen isn’t a big deal plus it had to be charged not everyone uses it just a feature

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Oh nice! Excited for you. Can't wait to hear how it went.

[@mattc256]

@ I’ll let you know I have about a few hours left

[@mattc256]

@@JaimeRiveraTech I got it and love my new s25 ultra mine it's everything and more when it comes to samsung

[@Gadgetfans007]

The only reason I switched to the S25 Ultra was the rounded edges, and believe me, it made a lot of difference feels less bulky and more comfortable and its noticeable . At first, I was skeptical that it would look less premium than the S24 Ultra, but that was not the case. The S25 Ultra looks way more premium, especially the screen with less bezel. There is not much of a difference in the size of the bezel on paper compared to the S24 Ultra, but in real life, it looks more futuristic because the sides are flat. Performance-wise, there is no significant difference; it works exactly like the S24 Ultra. Unless you play some heavy games, you will notice a difference. Yes, there is an improvement in battery life, and the screen looks a bit better for some reason. I am not sure why, but for me, the S25 Ultra is better-negligible but noticeable.

[@kingfisher111]

Ive been using Note8/9 and 20ultra. i believe time has come to upgrade to 25ultra. i have a habit of keeping the phones for minimum of 4 years.

[@calvee1100]

Here's my takeaway from this video. Jaime: "The S24U was like 2% better than the S23U so not worth the upgrade. The S25U is like 4% better than the S24U so it's TOTALLY worth it!" Me: 🤦‍♂️

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

🤣 Haha I needed to read this comment. Thanks bud. A good laugh is always worth it.

[@fvahamonde]

Strongly disagree. No need to get the 25.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

@@fvahamonde love that you do! It's definitely not for everyone

[@marilinpuig8562]

Since I am not normal, I do change my phone yearly. That said, I traded in my S24 Ultra and gave now had my S24 Ultra for a week now. It would be nice if the cameras were cutting edge.... maybe next year.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Yeah, I so feel Samsung dropped the ball there

[@Gravage]

I had the S24 Ultra and I traded it to Best Buy for a Pixel 9 Pro XL for $0.00 (straight swap, thanks to a deal). Didn't even pay tax. I would have considered trading the Pixel in for the S25 Ultra, but they don't even offer trade-ins for that phone. That said, this was the first year that I was super "meh" about the new Galaxy phones. There are some things I miss about the Samsung experience, to the point that I wish I could get my S24 back, but I'm not sure I would have traded it in for this phone. There just isn't enough there to pull me in.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Yeah that's the problem with going Pixel. It's a great phone, but its trade-in value doesn't hold up as much as Galaxies and iPhones do. Still, I think you'll be just fine with that Pixel.

[@yungdadi]

Phones are trying to become laptops and cameras but fail to offer any technological improvements as phones

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

I do agree. I feel Samsung should work harder on DeX in order to bridge that gap.

[@PiterStreak]

I held onto my S21U Ultra for nearly 4 years. The longest I ever have a phone. The phone still works great and as expected. I just had the itch for something new. But I knew I wouldn't upgrade until processor speeds at least doubled the single core performance of the SD888 and the X Elite did it. Also we have to look at everything else. The s25 has a 5000mah battery like my S21U, screen size and resolution are the same, cameras are better but the s21U cameras aren't bad. I felt there still wasn't a crazy difference between the s21U and the s25 to make it worthwhile. So I went with the op 13 . At least there the skin is different so it feels different enough for me to warrant spending the money. So far, the one plus 13 nails all the basics and that's all I could ask for. Consistently having 8-10 hours sot and being able to top up in the time it takes me to get ready for work is just 🧁

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Yeah I think that OnePlus 13 is just too hard to compete with right now. Totally get you

[@katinasoutherland7693]

I like your rationale. If others would think like that, we'd all be happy with our upgrades. I upgraded my s22U cus I couldn't handle the stutters while scrolling. I have an iPhone 13pro that I'll keep until the 18PM if it continues to perform the way it has.

[@aba.m1]

Watching on my S25 Ultra. Upgraded from S22+

[@michaelhubbard4023]

I love the S25 ultra. Better than the S24 ultra for sure. I hated the pointed corners and wideness of the phone.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Dude, exactly.. Hated those sharp corners too.

[@Ramallinone]

I hate as well my s24 ultra for bulky feel. Now it's feel like plus and not a piece of brick.

[@rd4k04]

Slapping a magnetic case on a phone shouldn't qualify as Qi2.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Dude totally agree

[@capadon77]

Well Qi2 means faster WIRELESS charging. The S25 ultra doesn't have the magnet but it supports Qi2.

[@rd4k04]

@capadon77 Qi2 is 15 watts...The whole point is the magnets.

[@mellymoo_eats]

I still have a Fold 4 and am thinking of upgrading to the Ultra 🤔 I've noticed now that my battery on my Fold is deteriorating slowly. Or should I wait for the Fold 7? Hmmmm 🤔

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Complicated. I like my fold 6, but don't love it. It's hard to go back to it after Pixel 9 Pro Fold and even the OnePlus Open. If you're a fold person, I say wait. Otherwise this Ultra is pretty great

[@cooluser23]

It's because the Bluetooth air gestures weren't advertised well.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Honestly, I thought they were a good gimmick

[@enz0_25]

This must be a hefty sponsorship…..

[@blacar3270]

I upgrade about every two years. My last Ultra was the S22 Ultra, but I only kept it for a year before grabbing the Z Fold 5. I gave into the hype and decided to trade my 5 for the S25 Ultra instead of waiting and wishing for a Fold 7 with S25 Ultra cameras. Although, I'll upgrade in 6 months if that's the case

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

I like that you're willing to experiment. It's a good move in my opinion.

[@blacar3270]

@JaimeRiveraTech YOLO. Why not treat urself?

[@megajeremy3000]

Samsung and Apple could probably start going at least two years before releasing new phones now.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Or bring back the S years where the challenge was to make the features so compelling that people could choose

[@ColonelFusion]

Coming from the Galaxy S22 Ultra to the 25 Ultra... the screen was a massive downgrade for me. I finally found the Screen Mode, Vivid, Advanced Settings to slide the Vividness to max. Now I'm happy with it though not amazed at all. It's definitely an incremental upgrade. The battery life is better, the screen is less reflective. That is all. I could definitely return the 25 and use the 22 for another year and be fine. But, I'm paying about $27 a month financed through Samsung and secured the 7 years of support so why not?

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Right. The only way it made sense was through the deals

[@pitbull64]

Still rocking with the S22 ultra until support ends which will be probably when the S26 or S27 comes out.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Not a bad plan. Hoping the battery lasts on you

[@msimrow]

The S25U took a step back in design and looks more like the S21U or a larger S25. It has nothing to make it look different or unique. The S24U is peak design

[@jordiverbrugge9896]

the specs are just trash for the price, more people need to admit it the phone is not bad by itself, but for the price there should be a lot more

[@cbmitchell]

Great review as "always". I've had every Note except Note 1 and every Galaxy equivalent scene. Im enjoying the rounded corners and the flat display panel. Seems like a real solid phone. Black, 1TB Unlocked.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Appreciate you, and yeah that Space Black exclusive color is pretty awesome.

[@krisfortnite]

I bought the s24 ultra, because it looks better (in my opinion) and the s pen has all the air commands.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

I do like it’s Lumia-like simplicity. Not a fan of the feel but I do think you bought a great phone

[@krisfortnite]

@@JaimeRiveraTech yeah I love it. I have a case on it (not sure if it helps with the feel) and I dont really feel the sharp edges

[@krisfortnite]

Maybe its the way I hold my phone, idk

[@nemanjarajkov]

I am sad to see that innovation award is going to Chinese companies instead of Apple and Samsung

[@7GeeooH7]

I know you know but your title is misleading because you forgot the ultra after the s24. I was one of the ones that was interested until I realized it wasn't what it says... 😑🤣

[@Grind.Harder77]

I know you reviewers know this but the s24 has a year of optimization The s25 hasn't even been released yet so usually it gets update for a lot of the camera software and speed and all that stuff you guys know this

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

I covered it on my previous video. It wasn't that big a deal

[@bigrod997]

7 years of os and security updates for the s24 ultra. Why would you upgrade to a phone that took away a feature?

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Yeah, I hate it when products take steps back.

[@KrastanovDroneVideos]

I switched from a 5 year old Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro to the S25 Ultra - and yes, its definitely an upgrade!

[@KeithsTVHD1]

cell phones are reaching a plateau now.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Oh they did 5 years ago

[@gary094]

Not every country is offering a free storage upgrade.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Right. As I mentioned from the beginning. It's in the United States.

[@awkc63]

Phones need to come out every other year, and personally, the S24 Ultra is the best phone Samsung has made since the Note lineup ended. It'll likely be the last great phone until the S27 Ultra, at least. The S25 Ultra provides less, and costs more (outside of the US) It's actually becoming an embarrassment to spend the money on an S device.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Maybe not every other year, but I liked Apple's concept of S years. You knew the design wasn't gonna change.

[@timothyokpara8072]

I am just upgrading after 3 years … I don’t change every year

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Makes sense

[@yankeesusa1]

You must really want that commission lol

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

LoL.. Click through rate is less than 1% on KZbin, so if that were the motive, I wouldn't spend 2 days making a video. 😉

[@Mike-t5r9q]

Hey man thanks for making an honest video about the s25 ultra i was going to trade in my s24 ultra for s25 ultra but it's just not worth the upgrade this year because the screen is the exact same M3 screen, the same peak brightness 2600nits, same 12gb of ram and the same 5000mah battery size but battery life is a tad worse on the s25 ultra then the s24 ultra. Im sure the s25 ultra is more comfortable to hold and lighter but that alone is not worth the upgrade. Hopefully the S26 Ultra next year would be a bigger jump in the upgrade

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Yeah I hear you. It's a lot of the same in a nicer package for sure. The changes do matter to me, but I don't blame you if it's not enough for you totally. Thanks for watching bud!

[@My_dailyL1fe]

I mean I just upgraded I had to s24u but I have to say this phone does feel lighter and better in a few more ways that I actually like a little bit more so I'm satisfied with my upgrade. But what I did upgrade was I took my kids s23 traded in for the s25 ultra then gave her my s24 ultra so it was like a win-win

[@katinasoutherland7693]

Very smart!! Now that's how you beat the system.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Yeah sounds like a good move indeed

[@HWForest]

The 25Ultra is "less than meets the eye' now. From the outside it's a beautiful phone and very light to hold too. But from the inside it's lacking.. i wish it has faster aperture for the telephoto? Maybe a 10bit screen.. the update i only see is more software related.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

I also wish for the faster aperture. Also on that 10-bit topic.. I saw the posts on reddit. Thing is the display is HDR10+ certified, which technically isn't possible without 10-bit. Just because Samsung doesn't make a big deal out of it doesn't mean it isn't there

[@alexandrutrasca3998]

Samsung offers $400 for a mint S24 Ultra here in Romania. So only the USA gets the good trade ins

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Da! 😉 That's terrible. Yeah, not worth it in your case. Multumesc!

[@alexandrutrasca3998]

@@JaimeRiveraTech damn, didn't expect a personalized reply! Thank you and keep up the good work man, been watching you for years!

[@halgrynshaun]

Great balanced review. I commend you for sticking to your opinion and bot let other reviewers influence your review.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Thanks dude. Appreciate it

[@tyyohr1841]

If the s21 ultra had an all flat screen an a even besel all the way around...that would be the best looking S Ultra phone

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Hmm I’m gonna agree on this one

[@sirmintyclack]

My reason for getting the S25 Ultra was (1) I prefer the design of the S25 Ultra. I am more a fan of rounded designs. (2) The biggest improvement on the S25 Ultra in my opinion, is the death of the shite curved screen. I prefer flat screens. I remember back to the early 2000s when cellphones were cursed with curved screens and screens with 2.5D curved edges. I consider the completely flat screen of the S25 Ultra to BIG upgrade. May the devil drag curved screens (including 2.5D curved edges) back to hell from whence they came... I had a S23 Ultra daily driver and a backup Note 20 Ultra 5g. I was able to trade in my Note 20 Ultra for $1,000 to Verizon and get the S25 Ultra with a free storage upgrade. I very happily gave up my backup Note 20 Ultra. Now my daily driver is the S25 Ultra with my backup phone being my old S23 Ultra. I always keep a backup phone for gaming and just in case (knock on wood & God forbid) my daily driver breaks. During the time I'm waiting for a refurbished daily driver from phone insurance, I can still have a decent phone to use.

[@JaimeRiveraTech]

Wow dude, that trade-in deal is unbeatable. Enjoy!!