Is The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra A Rip Off?!

[@TechOdyssey]

PREORDER YOUR SAMSUNG GALAXY S25 ULTRA NOW! GET UP TO $900 TRADE IN, PLUS A BONUS $300 FREE CREDIT! howl.link/avjejw62zzxlf (affiliate link) #affiliate

[@Dr.Mr.muscle007]

Would it still work for the UK?

[@marquinho999]

In my country, where most salaries vary between $600 - $1000, this device will start from $1500.

[@TechOdyssey]

@@Dr.Mr.muscle007 I don’t think so sadly

[@kevm.382]

There was no need to remove it, they should stop trying to be Apple!

[@Yes-dc7lu]

Apple don’t downgrade specs…

[@kevm.382]

@ Yes they did, removed 3D Touch, removed features from Apple Pencil USB-C, releasing a new iPhone with older chipset, etc 🤣 iPhone 17 slim rumored to removed the bottom speaker 🤣

[@marquinho999]

Todd Boehly has ruined Chelsea like a stupid apple ruined Sammy boy.

[@Yes-dc7lu]

@@kevm.382 wtf you talking about? You clearly don't know anything about apple

[@kevm.382]

@@Yes-dc7lu Do you research bro, and GTF out of my feed!

[@jonathonlovell3409]

The pen isn't a dealbreaker for me, but I think it's the idea of "If I'm paying an outrageous price for the cutting edge, brand new, top of the line, flagship smartphone, I should NEVER be losing ANY features, only gaining more. I'm paying for the luxury of features I won't use often, but can use whenever I want to."

[@Young_Dab]

I understand but it could be baby steps towards getting rid of the S-pen entirely. Samsung has stuck with 5000mah battery for 5 years. Next year if they remove the S-pen they can finally add more battery.

[@DSN262]

​@@Young_DabIf that's the case, why weren't the batteries bigger on the s series before they added the spen?

[@smartphonefan5226]

Exactly.

[@CosmicOwlChild]

Damn right

[@GregWampler]

​@@Young_Dabthe new silicon carbon battery tech will increase battery capacity without requiring more space. They won't need to remove the s pen for this reason. If they remove it, then there are other reasons...

[@barajas27ka]

If features get removed, the price should be dropped too. Period!

[@callumham2snowplays346]

What if that's the reason the price is the same? i still think they should have given a paid option, but I see why they did it, but it was the wrong way of doing it. It needed a paid option to make people half happy

[@mredizon00]

It should be priced at 500 USD for all the essential functionalities they remove not to mention the essential accessories like the charger. For a priced that far exceeds 1000USD you get 1. No SDcard support 2. No phone jack 3. Less than 16GB RAM 4. Below 6000mah 5. No physical finger print sensor 6. No charger included. It is a scam phone at this point.

[@jevonsims900]

OK, if that's how Samsung wants to play this than they should remove all the Ai features people hardly use on Samsung phones too.

[@TechOdyssey]

AI is the future. Ok.

[@dewyakana1543]

Played with AI on my s24u. It got old very quickly. Need to force myself to talk to it and still not impressed. I use it to impress my friends. ​@@TechOdyssey

[@mrjaybee1234]

@@TechOdyssey AI will be subsription. There just giving it to free to get you hooked

[@aquablaster86]

You are correct, A.I is the future. We are not in the future. We live in now, and right now A.I is 90% a gimmick still. Charge more in the future if they need to because of A.I, but until A.I can read my mind and take a picture, leave in Bluetooth! I bet you will be saying the same thing when they inevitably remove DEX. ​@TechOdyssey

[@e5m956]

I don't even use the free AI features on my S24Ultra...definitely not going to get me to pay extra for it...

[@MiguelTorres-tn8dq]

It's the principle if I'm paying 1299 + tax =1400 I want the function regardless if I don't use it

[@gman5218]

Its not ultra display, not ultra memory, not ultra battery life and not ultra charging speeds. Why is the phone $1400 when phones a lot cheaper manage to bring the specifications for under $1000. 99% of people only use basic Ai that comes with all basic android phones. Plus the exclusive AI is only free for 6 months. People need to show samsung they cant do this again.

[@TheRu2fuct]

You sound like an ultra 👶

[@GregWampler]

​@@TheRu2fuctyou sound like a company simp and schill...

[@ericchill864]

I think that they dropped the ball. I'll stick with my s24 ultra.

[@stephenwilshaw6329]

A disaster of a launch in my opinion. It reminds me of how Ford treat the UK market. Ie with total indifference.

[@Hypernaked1]

Same here ✌🏼

[@TechOdyssey]

Not a bad decision

[@AnnesleyPlaceDub70]

Agreed . It looks like a superb device but I'm an S-Pen fanatic and taking away the bluetooth functionality was needless. I'll stick with my S23 Ultra and have a nose at the 26 when it arrives.

[@ronsolo1151]

Is that the Camel Kindsuit case?!

[@dadbeast]

I dont think its a rip off. I would say its bad business. You never give a customer less or take away previous tech that was in a device and still have the audacity to charge the same price for the device, that is supposed to be ultra.

[@yungtaeM9706]

And all the other stuff you get in exchange?not worth it?you senseless. Typical american probably who doesn't know anything. I hope you switch to oppo vivo floppo etc

[@lenacheney]

Like SD card and headphone jack and charger?

[@marquinho999]

For such prices, you should get in the box the latest Galaxy Buds Ultra, a charger, case and a screen protector.

[@PeterPacia82]

They kept the price same as last year with removing spen Bluetooth (possible making it a seperate buy later for people who want it), they balanced out the inflation. Every year everything goes up, never down...

[@ScienTeka]

The S24 ultra is still the KING 🫅 of the Samsung Kingdom.

[@Ruben.Venom0642]

Yup i compared side by side the S24 Ultra with S25 Ultra, the S24 Ultra is a bit wider and a bit taller, So no, The the S25 Ultra which also looks like a iPhone 😂 the Ultra Note look is gone.

[@dishanthakur8570]

@@Ruben.Venom0642Not just that but theres nothing that make s25 ultra unique yk, it just looks like any ordinary phone unlike the s24 ultra which had its own uniqueness with the squared edges.

[@dewyakana1543]

Agreed!

[@FlubFlubber]

Hm, i had S23 ultra and my batterylife was better and not by 30 minutes but more.

[@3SonsRC]

Erm mm OK😂😂😂 24 is Great if you have it and no need To really upgrade because the difference is notable but not life changing.... But is the 25 better? Yes, absolutely, but just opinions here. I couldn't give a rip about the BT pen... I never use it

[@doppavee4309]

Samsung really dropped the ball with the Galaxy S25 Ultra. This could have been their golden opportunity to grab some market share from Apple, but instead, they sh*t the bed. There were so many exciting upgrades they could have introduced: a new silicon-carbon battery for bigger capacity, faster charging, built-in MagSafe support for Qi2 wireless charging, an improved 3x telephoto lens, 16GB of RAM for futureproofing, IP69 certification, and even Aqua Touch technology. Instead, we got downgrades like the removal of Bluetooth functionality from the S Pen, essentially turning it into a regular stylus, uninspiring color options, and a cheap-looking, redesigned camera ring. Speaking of the camera design-there was no reason to change it. The S25 Ultra’s rounded frame corners already distinguish it, but if they wanted to innovate, a squarcle design instead of the usual circle design for the camera lenses would’ve added a more premium and unique feel. For anyone considering an upgrade, skipping the S25 Ultra in favor of the S24 Ultra seems like a no-brainer. Not only is it significantly cheaper now, but it retains more or less all the same features, with the addition of the superior Bluetooth-enabled S Pen. The S25 Ultra feels more like a missed opportunity and regression than an evolution. If you are worried about the S24 Ultra digging into you're palm, just put a case on it.

[@kewlztertc5386]

It's not an "S-Pen," it's now a simple stylus.

[@ER0CK5_]

No.

[@Danilio.]

​@@ER0CK5_ Yes.

[@dewyakana1543]

S stands for Stick. Or was it Stupid?

[@kewlztertc5386]

@dewyakana1543 "S" now equals Superfluous.

[@DustinZilbauer]

Now the S stands for sucker. Even for people who never really used it as a stylus liked it as a remote control.

[@Gary0557]

The Asian Market would refuse to buy an Ultra with 12Gb Ram.

[@TristanWegner-mw3id]

That's why they get 16gb and we dont what a messed up mindset by samsung they only give u the bare minimum and less if u let them

[@ManishPandey-zx9nn]

exactly asian market is ver very competitive because we have access to chinese flagship and apple and samsung doesn't hold a candle to them

[@yungtaeM9706]

Haha ok. Then buy an american iPhone with 8gb. Also for more than 1000 dollars. Not angry about that?

[@Gary0557]

@yungtaeM9706 I'm European, and I don't get angry over devices.

[@TristanWegner-mw3id]

@@Gary0557 which means Asians are the more competent consumer

[@hydywirralterrier]

These " amazing deals " are only for people in the US. The UK has crap " deals ".

[@TechOdyssey]

@@hydywirralterrier sorry to hear that

[@al-ww2tg]

I'm in the UK. I paid £600 for mine and the air buds

[@SSHayden]

Not just UK. USA is basically the only place with great deals. EU has varying degrees of bad offers.

[@dylanb.harrison5874]

For Canada they suck too

[@DrMoorehen]

I agree, but got student discount and codes for mine, plus a trade in and am paying under £400 for it, although im really consideting sending back as i love the 23U

[@ejdavis72]

Taking Bluetooth out of the pen will save them millions while charging the same price for the overall package. They have taken away the headphone jack, IR blaster, SD card slot, removable battery, charger, and now Bluetooth from the pen saving them MILLIONS while the price steadily increases. Regardless if the phone is only costing you $400 with the trade-in from your old phone, they are still getting your money.

[@ER0CK5_]

The phones cost $110 more per unit to produce this year. So keeping the price the same as last year is likely only because of the savings in eliminating something 1% of people used.

[@ejdavis72]

@@ER0CK5_ Then they must have been selling them at A HUGE LOSS with the Headphone jack, IR blaster, SD card slot, and removable battery. xD We are frogs in boiling water. WAKE UP

[@Danilio.]

@@ejdavis72 And they've removed the charger from the box.

[@ejdavis72]

@@Danilio. GOOD POINT!! I completely forgot about that. Thank you, I will ad this to my list of complaints.

[@ER0CK5_]

@ejdavis72 you think costs of items doesn't increase year over year? Are you seriously that ignorant?

[@deserter___]

I think it's more than just the S pen and ram people are mad about. Samsung just can not hide their cost cutting on virtually every metric of their phones right now. Reusing most of the parts from the past 2 years on the S25s. -Same old main sensor cameras -Same old M13 displays from almost 2 years ago while apple and even google could afford to put the newer gen M14 displays on LAST YEARS pixel 9 pro and iphone 16 pro. -Same body, battery, ram etc. I think in a vacuum the S25s are great, but in comparison to most Chinese flagships they are very uncompetitive and losing market share fast, especially in Asia.

[@TheJames-Edward]

It doesn't make sense why they took out the Bluetooth feature.

[@Danilio.]

They wanted to cut corners to save money. Imo it wasn't a good idea, especially since it's supposed to be the "Ultra" model.

[@ljacobs357]

The only people who are upset are the few who have used it. I have the Tab S9 and never used the Bluetooth function.

[@ER0CK5_]

It does make sense. If 1% of people used it, and the new chipset and everything led to the production cost being $110 higher per unit than last year, and they wanted to not raise the retail - they had to save money somewhere.

[@BruceLeeRoy26]

Y’all wanted all Snapdragon chipsets, Samsung used Exynos in certain countries to keep costs down but people complained about it so now they have to cut corners where they can including reducing trade in deals in parts of Europe.

[@jevonsims900]

Money, the more they take away the more money they save.

[@o0junglist0o93]

I was going to upgrade but with the removal of the spen Bluetooth ive cancelled my preorder

[@itzjp777]

Sure you were 😉

[@StrikingTill]

Samsung is offering the S25U blue tooth S Pen for $50 on their website. Recently updated it. Just ordered the S25U. My S22U battery was giving out and the blue tooth S Pen was my original deal breaker for this new phone. Glad they fixed their mistake. (USA)

[@Advanceddd]

​​@@StrikingTill This is not true, dont confuse the people. Samsung doesnt sell BT Pen at all. Some guys put a rumor earlier today and it was officialy confirmed its not true.

[@StrikingTill]

@Advanceddd I just purchased it and used the $80 credit they offered to cover the cost ($50) of the S-Pen. I'm in US. Not sure if it's offered for other countries.

[@o0junglist0o93]

@@StrikingTill Does the phone charge it?

[@cjgt77]

I was playing around with the phone yesterday at Best Buy. It really is nice, but nothing really sticks out that makes it feel worth it. I said before that Samsung didn't drop the ball because of all the performance enhancements, but after using it just for the little while that I did, I can't see it being worth $1,300, especially without the bluetooth functionality of the S pen. The funny thing is, BB had the pen right next to the phone, and I didn't even feel like being bothered with it, because it's basically now just a pointy plastic stick. Granted, I would use the pen on my s23 only once in the while, but I thought it was really cool when I did use it and it came in handy taking pictures. Not to sound too vain, but my friend thought it was really cool that I was able to use the pen as a shutter. It would be kind of embarrassing to spend $1,300, for what it appears to be on the surface, less of a phone then the one I had two generations ago. Telling him about a 40% bigger heat sink doesn't have the same wow factor, lol! I think part of the problem too is that Samsung is pushing something that people are not really asking for, which is AI. In order to take full advantage of it everything else in your life has to be Samsung, even if the phone is a big part of it, then paying a subscription fee on top of it is kind of a bummer. So they want you to pay $1,300 for the phone on top of a subscription fee for something that you don't necessarily understand or care to use. Thinking back to when I first heard about the s25, I remember people saying it's going to cost more, but I was actually willing to pay if it did have 16 gigs, the carbon battery and an even more functional pen. Maybe not $500 more or something, but $100? Sure. That's understandable. Now, I'm actually leaning toward the s24. Hell, Im thinking about the PlusOne 13 as well. If my carrier supported it I would have snatched that up. That should tell Samsung something.

[@Romeowilson2323]

I just played with it at Best Buy and I like it a lot.

[@culticfrog]

I was also at Best Buy, but this phone feels like it’s made from cheap materials and doesn’t feel premium at all. I like the S24 build, but this S25 is definitely cheap.

[@cjgt77]

@@Romeowilson2323 , it's definitely a really nice phone and it's still on my list, but compared to others in it's class it leaves something to be desired, especially for that price. The PlusOne 13, for example, is only $900 now. It may not have the AI features, but it's more "phone" than the S25 in some areas. For $400 more the S25 shouldn't want for anything.

[@BlkPwr69]

I can't tell the difference at all beyond the rounded off corners and the s-pen not being able to change my music or pictures anymore........

[@DMcDaniel1984]

I'm in the same boat on the spen, I rarely used it at all. Let alone the remote Bluetooth features. I'm keeping my Pixel 9 Pro XL, OP13 and S23U and hoping for more of an upgrade and new features in 2026.

[@gombeadhsiochainann]

I've got ADD, and using three phones would even be a challenge for me lol

[@DMcDaniel1984]

@gombeadhsiochainann I could understand that, just depends on the mood. I tend to lean towards the pixel 9 pro for camera and s23u for daily. The OP13 was just an experiment because I've never been outside the Samsung or Pixel realm. The OP13 is a great phone.

[@lenacheney]

​@callmeNeno probably tech addiction like me. I own a pixel 9pro, pixel 8, s23, s24 and s24 plus

[@DMcDaniel1984]

@lenacheney yup 👍

[@lenacheney]

@DMcDaniel1984 i thought about buying the one plus 13 too. Ive never been out of samsung ecosystem or google ecosystem

[@unisafornah8043]

Not using my a/c in my car does not mean it is useless. I can use it when I need it. Keep the s-pen

[@unisafornah8043]

Great review

[@jpuhak1]

I'm still rocking the S23 Ultra. The 24 and 25 just haven't given me a reason to update. Sure, it's more powerful and more efficient, but I'm not pushing my S23, and the battery is lasting me all day. So why update? 🤷‍♂️

[@FlubFlubber]

S23 ultra is better then s24 ultra in batterylife. It is a beast phone. I bought s24 ultra and i was tired with the heavy weight and also to use with 1 hand. Thats gonna be better now. Lighter, better to hold, thinner bezels and batterylife better then S24 ultra.

[@Aaron_Amadeus]

I don't use the pen. I'm happy to trade in my S22 Ultra and get the Awsome trade in.. I'll trade in again in 2 years with the updated battery and Bluetooth pen.

[@TechOdyssey]

Go for it. It’s a great phone and deal

[@OwenWagoner]

If you don't look at the current deal pricing for the S25 Ultra and you compare it to an iPhone 16 pro max, the S25 Ultra is more expensive. And the only real upgrades to the new S25 from the S24 is the ultra wide camera sensor and the processor (I don't count the design changes as upgrades). Pretty much everything else is just software that should mostly show up on the S24 in a few months. It just doesn't make sense to me and I agree with your argument that it's not really an "Ultra" anymore, which is disappointing.

[@jtt7784]

People being angry that a PRODUCT doesn't meet their "expectations", just shows how deep we are in the consumerism rabbit hole. Just don't buy it. These brands don't owe you nothing, and neither do you. Buy an older version, a different version, another brand...or the biggest life hack of all - you don't need to buy a phone at all.

[@TechOdyssey]

Exactly

[@AkronKid330]

For 399, it is not a rip-off. And all the deals that samsung offers. It's a no-brainer.

[@AkronKid330]

@callmeNeno you're delusional. You have no idea.

[@SuperYankeechick]

​@callmeNeno it is not the same phone. The air gestures for me mean nothing, having the new chip custom designed for Samsung, not just the over clocking, the effenincy cores have been designed just for the Samsung panel.

[@levondarratt787]

That is the math of a 5-year-old child. You're giving them a $900 Worth phone so $400 on top means you paid $1,300. That's not including tax. You can easily sell your phone for $900 on the open market and then buy the S25 for $1,100. People who think they're paying $400 for the phone, when that is the price you have to pay yearly for an update is just mind-blowing and that's exactly what they want you to think.

[@DavidPerez-q2r]

Nah man I traded the S 24 Ultra for the S 25 Ultra. Unfortunately, I couldn't resist the trade-in deal.

[@AkronKid330]

@@callmeNeno you couldn't be more wrong. You just don't see it.

[@gary094]

Yes, they just rehash the same phone over and over again.

[@TechOdyssey]

@@gary094 that’s most phones these days

[@TristanWegner-mw3id]

​@@TechOdysseyoneplus got 16gb ram,aqua touch no issues in rain anymore this is real innovation, a better screen,new battery tech and oneplus is not a giant like samsung they could do the same or better if they wanted

[@sdmoore89]

Tru but if it's not for you if you coming from the s23 or newer

[@flaringafro]

I mean, that's just technology (or basically any product) when it reaches a mature level. How many laptops or desktops have had real innovation in the last 20 years? They just have hardware spec bumps because they already do what people want.

[@eugenioocon6922]

Is not for you, buy other brand cheaper with better features

[@nomadicrunner888]

The first time I finally liked the design of the Ultra, with the flat display, rounded edges and boxier feel like my S24+. I was finally going to buy the Ultra (always purchased the Plus model) and they take away the S-Pen functions. It's a pain taking photos using a timer, also noticed on their website that the shipping dates all say Feb 7th for all the colors and models. That tells me sales are lackluster 🤦

[@jonnycarlson9555]

Really good video. I think a big reason also is that your fellow tech reviewers go to sunny California on Samsungs event and comes back as salesmen for this phone without any sort of criticism at all

[@TechOdyssey]

That probably doesn’t help

[@Hypernaked1]

So true I have to leaf through my favorite KZbin channels because of this. I can't stand the raw raw that comes afterward new product announcements. Just give us the skinny in a couple clear concise videos. I will say that this is my favorite tech Odyssey video on this product because he comes out swinging with regard to the features that Samsung should have or could have put into the phone and opted not to.

[@maqclark]

The reviews I've watched have echoed the same criticisms. Overall I've noticed a general lack of enthusiasm for the S25 series compared to the S24's last year. A big reason why I upgraded to the 24 plus was the overwhelmingly positive reviews. Everybody was geeked about that device.

[@ghenevoejovi8964]

My main issue is the battery... Samsung spent alot upgrading their camera tech but what if you need to shoot for hours??

[@FlubFlubber]

Hm, i had oneplus and iPhone and pixel etc... all that phones going down in batterylife by video recording, around 3 hours video recording and done. I have a big external battery.

[@mattsidford4705]

Trouble with OP, xiaomi phones, the cameras are basically midrange. Then don't start on what happens after "updates". Sammy needs to increase the screen size to 7inch, 144hz, IR blaster, 7000 mAh battery, 24 gb ram if they gunna offer 7 years of updates.

[@TechOdyssey]

lol. How about putting a light saber inside of it too while you’re at it

[@mattsidford4705]

@TechOdyssey oops forgot the 1inch main sensor too. As you said, Ultra should mean it has everything, and have the best hardware to try and pull it off. Stuff this bs about making light thin phones for the "pronoun crew he/him/she/her/it/they", the Sammy Ultra is a big phone, hence expect it to weight 260g plus. Would you prefer a 7000 mAh battery or a sub 200g weight. Frankly, the sales and online brashing re the S pen gunna hurt them. Wake up Sammy.

[@marquinho999]

The most expensive device in my whole life.

[@Mike-og3xb]

The delivery date is still February 7, normally a week after the release the delivery date has been moved back due to demand. This thing isn't selling.

[@stephenwilshaw6329]

Here in the UK I'm thinking this launch will soon attract massive discounts from samsung as the phone isn't an upgrade and we can't be fooled.

[@stephenwilshaw6329]

And there are too many s24 ultra owners who are already very happy

[@TechOdyssey]

Nope. It’s not. And the Fold and Flip didn’t sell well either. I think this will be a the awakening for Samsung

[@jaydquin]

Hope you're right and I can get mine immediately. Pre-ordered my wife's Fold 6 and that delivery was pushed back significantly, just under 3 weeks.

[@evanmcmillen409]

I checked the same this morning. I don't think it's selling. All dates February 7th. Pretty sad Samsung.

[@life5161]

Samsung peaked at Note 9! I'd love my S24 Ultra a whole lot more if it had a headphone jack and IR blaster and SD card slot. I'd rather have those useful features over stupid AI.

[@dennisjensen2671]

I've been a Samsung fanboy since 2014 but I'm just bored with the brand so switched to OnePlus 13 and I couldn't be happier. The performance is fantastic along with beautiful screen and the fast charging and battery life is a game changer for me. So far it's been a gem.

[@TechOdyssey]

The OnePlus 13 is a fantastic phone

[@Hypernaked1]

I'm going to start shopping different manufacturers as well. I'm leaning Motorola Edge +. Motorola's come with similar features as far as dex and secure folders are concerned and those are my top two utilities I would like to have in another phone.

[@gombeadhsiochainann]

How's the skin? When I had the Maclaren edition, it felt so generic.

[@TechOdyssey]

@ feels solid, if you mean the surface and texture. Only complaint is it’s a fingerprint and smudge magnet

[@graham1155]

The only thing keeping me with Samsung are the Galaxy tags. Would love to try a OnePlus

[@andrewmason9894]

UK trade ins are 💩 how can a 1tb S23 ultra be worth £36 LESS than a 256gb S23 ultra

[@Alan-xv4rl]

Seems like a much better trade-in in the states. In the UK the S25 Ultra is £1249 and S24 Ultra trade-in is only £500😢 Will have to wait for S26 Ultra.

[@mattmatt7998]

I do believe so... The S Pen is the samurai sword of the phone 📱 😂 same battery. Pretty much the same cameras. Gemini features and AI is just a paid service if you want. What's an update? When it comes to features. The S25 Slim better be a home run hitter... cuz samsung really pulled an IPhone move...

[@Hoosiersajk]

Your titles are random as hell. You don't necessarily talk in concrete numbers. You don't use graphics or screenshots. But damn, you are honest, consistent and always looking out for the end consumer. For that and i feel like we are having a conversation in each video, i love you channel and always click! Thank you!!!

[@SilentRunnerSpeaks]

Heartfelt rant: I’ve tested out android phones (especially the ultra’s)… but for years, I was always pulled back to Apple because of their ecosystem functionality. That changed when I gave the s23ultra a shot and especially the SPen a chance. The ability to use air gestures for music, then use it for a remote shutter, and then write on your phone and in my case, greatly improve my handwriting skills… it blew my mind a bit. Now, do I use these features on a day-to-day basis… no, but my frustration is 60% that they removed features (with no technological upgrade trade-off), and 40% that I loved these features. I heard on a video last night that Samsung is going to release an SPen that does have Bluetooth that will fit into the phone, but sounds like you’re gonna have to pay for it… which feels like it’s making the whole thing worse…

[@johnalello9233]

Look they took away the SD card we got over it no big deal!!! And no headphone jack. Look Samsung is going to Gemini and AI so look Spen is not a deal breaker Apple IPhone has no Spen and its the number #1 selling phone in USA it doesn't bother me they improved it some from S24U i believe its a beautiful phone! The question where will Samsung go in 2026 what direction will they go even a different design bigger battery! More expensive who knows! Im thinking about buying it! People should talk more about the battery capacity thats the real problem with this phone and charging speed!!! Thanks great channel

[@WillowdelaCruz]

Saw some video and article saying that the S-Pen with bluetooth will be sold separately. Hope someone could verify this.

[@TechOdyssey]

I believe it’s been debunked

[@leisurefarm]

Thanks for sharing the dismal figures for S25U! I don't think people are upset because of 2 small reasons but one big reason - Samsung needs to give us more instead of circling the drain with miniscule increments like what they've done with Fold 4/5/6/slim which had been frustrating enough in the past few years; and now to one up themselves by removing features for flimsy reasons. Personally, I am unhappy not over the removal of the feature but the attitude behind the removal and how this mentality pervades how they view their phones and their relationship with customers. Personally, I abandoned the Fold series after Fold 4, and now it seems I would be forsaking the Ultra series too.

[@FUTBOLis1]

I just don't know how to justify the cost over the OP13

[@lisaw7633]

Personally I hardly ever use my s pen. I also didn't realize how much it could do. I buy the ultra's for the cameras and battery life. Since those two things haven't improved enough to make me wanna buy s25u even though I reserved one and have always upgraded at the very least 2 yrs. I presently have the s24u think I'll stick with it for a while. And all the AI features you are gonna have to pay for in the near future . No thanks

[@XG_Alpha_Supreme]

"Dot" when dealing with letters, such as a website. "Point" is when dealing with numbers, such as formula and percentage, or anything numbers when holding spaces denoting smaller values...tens, hundreds, thousands.

[@TechOdyssey]

Thanks for the info

[@antoniacodrin7756]

This guy is so close to understanding the real reason why people hate the S25 Ultra. It has nothing to do with the phone’s specs. As he himself mentioned, the S25 Ultra features the new Snapdragon Elite processor, which is significantly more powerful than last year’s Snapdragon. However, people aren’t excited about that. They see big numbers and impressive specs, yet they don’t care about the phone. And the reason is simple - he's right: specs don’t matter that much, capabilities do. What truly matters is whether the phone brings something new, something innovative and exciting compared to last year’s model. Unfortunately, the S25 Ultra brings absolutely nothing new apart from a specs upgrade that, in real-life usage, translates to almost no noticeable difference. An S24 Ultra can do practically everything that an S25 Ultra can. In fact, even the S23 Ultra can handle the same tasks just as well. What people are really upset about is the lack of innovation. Samsung hasn’t introduced anything new and groundbreaking with this model, nor with the previous ones. Every year, they simply incorporate the latest Snapdragon processor - processors that are already far too powerful for the kind of software smartphones run, except for a handful of mobile games. And let's be honest, most mobile games are mediocre at best. There’s no software on a smartphone that can truly take advantage of the processing power the S25 Ultra offers. Spending over a thousand dollars on a new phone that doesn't do anything differently compared to a three-year-old device is simply pointless. He mentions camera upgrades, but if you compare photos taken with a three-year-old flagship phone to those from the S25 Ultra, you’ll notice almost no difference - unless you’re pixel-peeping at an extreme level, which no one does in real life. If you want to see real camera innovation in 2025, take a look at smartphones like the Vivo X200 Pro. That’s an actual upgrade in the camera department, not the so-called improvements Samsung offers with its minor tweaks to image processing algorithms. The sad truth is that Samsung used to do what Chinese smartphone makers are doing now - pushing boundaries. However, they’ve grown complacent, knowing that people are willing to pay premium prices for minimal upgrades. They no longer feel the need to innovate or make meaningful improvements. Take a look at the S25 Ultra and ask yourself - what exactly did Samsung contribute to this year's model? The processor comes from Qualcomm, so it’s not Samsung’s work. Most AI features are developed by Google and simply rebranded as Samsung’s own. There’s nothing genuinely new that Samsung has introduced themselves. And that’s the real issue - the disregard Samsung shows for its users. They expect customers to pay insane prices while putting in the least effort possible. That’s the problem. And guess what? In other parts of the world, like Europe, Samsung couldn’t even be bothered to offer the kind of rebates that they do in the United States of America. They are asking full price for a lackluster phone and expecting people to like it. This is because, in Europe, Samsung holds a dominant position, as iPhones are not as prevalent as they are in America. They are fully aware of this and are trying to take advantage of European consumers as much as possible. Unfortunately, what they don’t realize is that they are losing market share, and this decline will only accelerate in the coming years. By the time they realize how bad things have become, it will be too late for them to recover. I really hope they wake up before they end up like HTC or LG. As for me, they already lost a loyal client. RIP Samsung.

[@drydz8670]

I don't use it that much, but really came in handy when I had to. Too bad it was downgraded.

[@TechOdyssey]

Yeah

[@nenad1809]

In Germany is RIP OFF!!!!

[@yaminabenh7880]

In Belgium too 😢

[@Ba1-j4k]

I couldn't care less about the s-pen, but they needed to improve the RAM and battery for an Ultra class phone

[@carlbrenda6518]

I'd say less than 1% will truly use AI for something other than a novelty, yet they are shoving it on everybody!

[@TristanWegner-mw3id]

Because its for them not for us also subscription they want this to be a thing desperately no matter what they even let go of hardware upgrades they simply don't care

[@stephenwilshaw6329]

I've watched the full video, I think it's a fair appraisal of the hole Samsung have dug for themselves.

[@TechOdyssey]

Thank you

[@rajah316]

It's funny how the base 25 got a Ram upgrade from 8Gb of Ram on the base S24 to 12gb of Ram. But the S25 Ultra Ram stayed the same as the S24 Ultra.

[@garethalston]

You say amazing trade in deals but remember not all you’re watchers are from USA, most other places the deals are no where near as good as USA

[@TechOdyssey]

My primary audience is on the U.S. and that’s where I live. I can’t feasibly cover all of the deals for every country and market

[@briantaylor1945]

That "1%" number is probably based on total usage SPen hours. But that 48% in your poll are the ones that know and recommend phones to their family and friends.

[@TechOdyssey]

@@briantaylor1945 maybe so

[@hang10wannabe]

A few thousand people entering into a poll is not indicative of the 13.5 million S23 Ultra users out there... how many phone users watch Samsung phone content on you tube and social media?

[@undertone2472]

Your shrinkflation comment was exactly what made me mad. Charging the same amount of money and giving you less features. If you're a Note fan, you'd be really upset right now too. They took your line away mrenched it with the "Ultra" line then are slowly removing the note features. Death by a thousand cuts.

[@systemx4]

Never used s pen bluetooth in over 2 years. Upgrading to s25 ultra from s22 ultra

[@danemyburgh]

Nice! What did you go with? 512gb jet black for me.

[@TechOdyssey]

Go for it I hope you enjoy it. Big upgrade

[@justinc5998]

With the S Pen now downgraded among other Note features being removed over the past few years perhaps Samsung should consider renaming the Ultra the sub-Ultra or the S - (minus) 🤣Little humor to quell my frustration with Samsung.

[@elainecolling6883]

EVERYONE USES PHONES AT DIFFERENT LEVELS YOUR NOT GOING TO PLEASE ALL PEOPLE

[@TechOdyssey]

True

[@markharris4615]

Great talking points on the video. For me it's not about usage percentage it's principal. No increase in battery size, charging speed, MagSafe capability built in. Now I hear they're making a bluetooth capable S-Pen to sale separately coming soon, bad business. They should have a portal like they had when they remove their headphones from past Galaxy devices where they sent it to you free if you wanted them after product verification was acknowledged.

[@AhmadShamrani]

There are better phones. The s25 old in New year, that's all.

[@fredbernal9156]

Just keep taking crap away Samsung. No Sd card, IR blaster, no charger, audio jack,screen protector and a cheap case. These are mass produced like Apple, where a 16 Pro Max cost only 200 bucks to produce. Time to go on strike, NOT HAPPY AT ALL.

[@lorenzowashington5546]

It's not the upgrade I was expecting, but an upgrade none the less.im upgrading from 24U just as a phone guy.

[@TechOdyssey]

I did too. I’m happy with it.

[@Noworries-PU7ye]

A foney guy among other things I'm sure😮

[@herculesinwyoming]

baby stepping us down to just taking the s pen away. i use the pen alot and i liked the blutooth feautures alot.

[@TechOdyssey]

I don’t think that’s going to happen

[@YoungHaveNot]

, this phone is basically 24 2.0 They didn't do anything Disgusting

[@TristanWegner-mw3id]

Well said the didn't do anything is the important part for such a big company that is like a f u to their customers no care or love or gratefulness that they got the trust and appreciation of their customers

[@YoungHaveNot]

@TristanWegner-mw3id i expected at least a camera overhaul upgrade. But nope

[@TristanWegner-mw3id]

@@YoungHaveNot yea something major or for example the battery it's a nice case and u got 7 years of support so it would be the right decision for a company with class to bring a state of the Art battery to future proof the purchase and reduce unnecessary issues or unsatisfactory experience after some time the fact that they don't approach their tech in such a way is the disgusting part so careless

[@DRAGUNX86]

For me personal removal of smart Spen was the final nail in S25ultra coffin. Thank you for touching the topic of what Ultra should stand for. I will be skipping S25 series just because it doesn't feel like flagship anymore.

[@Bluewave498]

Does anyone don't like it They can keep what they have Problem solved

[@carlbrenda6518]

No... Because eventually they will need to upgrade and the device won't have the feature and it will cost more.

[@TechOdyssey]

Bingo

[@TechOdyssey]

There will be new phones out by then.

[@afcaton1]

Short answer, YES. For the price and the removal of features, it's not a good deal. Not everyone has a flag ship phone to trade in, so you can get a "DEAL."

[@JasonGage]

Next year I want to see the S-pen Bluetooth back, 16 GB Ram, the 10x optical zoom, and 6000 mAhT battery! Then I will trade in my S23U.

[@e5m956]

Definitely need the 10x back...

[@damientoman]

@@e5m956 And the square corners - I think the new flat sides are good but round corners bad.

[@Yes-dc7lu]

@@JasonGage Samsung will remove s pen next year 👍

[@wouter.d.h.]

​@@damientomanrounded corners is better

[@damientoman]

@@wouter.d.h. I use a cover - no issue.

[@redhulkultra155]

was going to pre-order it trade my S24 Ultra 1tb unlocked version but.... decided against it. I noticed also the S24 Ultra resembles the iPhone alot. plus when you mentioned the draw backs I was like wait it's so expensive like last year but less features (kinda). they need to stop taking stuff away if they wanna keep upping the price.

[@vincenttyler4667]

I saw the phone at best buy and it's light. Almost 2 the point it feels cheaper than my 23 ultra 😮

[@TechOdyssey]

I think it feels nice and premium.

[@kylemyles5975]

If Samsung's research department truly did a poll, they worded the poll incorrectly. The poll shouldn't have been based on the percentage of users that actually use the Bluetooth features. The poll should have asked "how many would be upset if they did away with the spen Bluetooth functionality". For example, extremely wealthy people will purchase an enormously expensive vehicle that has some futuristic George Jetson features that they'll probably only use once and that one time would be to show it off to a friend. However, those features got them to purchase the vehicle.

[@k.j.littlejohn4362]

As someone coming from a cracked screen S22u this is going to be a ultimate upgrade for me..far from a ripoff, cant wait to receive it

[@TechOdyssey]

@@k.j.littlejohn4362 awesome. I hope you enjoy it.

[@rotrejo2667]

Same

[@kewlztertc5386]

Get an S24u, save money.

[@mqproductions]

It's not bro. I had the S22 Ultra, this is a massive upgrade for you.

[@battlefield3112011]

Same. My S23U got dropped and with the new Gorilla Armor 2 + flat screen, it should be less likely to happen. That anti-reflective coating though, is a game changer. Because far too many time when my passenger have their phone out (iPhones), the sun just got reflect around in my car, and my car already have top of the line tint. Also it is hard to see under bright sun for my S23U.

[@ivanmedina7423]

You got a lot of valid points specially on the fact that marketing a phone wich should be identified as the best of its S25 series had cutbacks on special futures from their previous models.

[@fahminagi8903]

about the spen , samsung wants to save money .

[@nickevans3190]

It's not just the S-Pen Bluetooth functionality nor 16gb RAM it also the same battery capacity and NO silicone carbon battery 6,000mha its only 1 camera hardware upgrade same screen brightness same screen pixel denserty when other phone's have theses specifications and are much cheaper come on samsung stop ripping us off

[@redy2kl]

Yes it's a rip off.

[@jeyhussle5953]

Even the previous S20 ultra had 16gb ram.....it all when downhill from there

[@TechOdyssey]

That’s what happens when you use one phone to satisfy two phone audiences. Can’t make everyone happy

[@fahminagi8903]

this is the end of samsung .

[@TechOdyssey]

It definitely isn’t

[@TristanWegner-mw3id]

They deserve it total lack of solid vision that includes hardware and innovation

[@FlubFlubber]

Offcourse not.

[@vincenttyler4667]

I want the 24 ultra. Do you think they will do sale pricing on Samsung app or focus on the 25 more?

[@TechOdyssey]

At this point deals are probably going to be better on the 25 Ultra for at least the first month

[@avowed4life]

Bring back my Bluetooth Spen and I'll buy it.

[@waynekarpenske5365]

When do the Pre-order offers end in the US?

[@TechOdyssey]

Feb 6

[@bradleyswaney6100]

There is nothing Ultra about it anymore. Small battery compared to other flagships, slow charging, and no ultra S-pen. No 16 gigs of ram. Samsung dropped the ball. Charge more than many other flagships. My opinion.

[@eyeshezzy]

the frustration is brought about by the Chinese competition offering more for less while they are reducing features but pumping up the price

[@TechOdyssey]

They also don’t offer serious long-term support definitely not monthly updates and don’t have full carrier support for people to use them in the US

[@eyeshezzy]

@TechOdyssey am outside the US. Not as bad here. Been using my Redmi Note 10 Pro for 5 years no major problems 😅 want a major upgrade now though 😅 Weighing my options between the Oneplus 13 vs S25 Ultra

[@Zakari2]

when you consider what some Chinese phones are doing you will never be impressed by this shit 😊

[@jidec3165]

Bingo!

[@TechOdyssey]

You also don’t get full network support or anywhere near the same level of software and security support.

[@Darkstar2023A]

​@TechOdyssey people only keep their phones for 2 or 3 years. Not a deal breaker.

[@vincentbell3775]

I've been lucky, in my 64 years, I've never needed a Sat Phone, and I'm not ever interested in being anywhere where I'm going to need a Sat Phone. I'll watch those places on my 8K TV. That's why I bought it. I do use the S-Pen though. Not anxious to give that up. Now I'm a bit skeptical that the processor in the S25 is that much improved over the S24, and that most of the photography improvements are about software and processing. Both OnePlus, iPhone, & Pixel can give us great photos with less megapixels, so I'm certain this is about software post processing. The next thing is to wait for One UI7 on the S24 and do these comparisons then, and most importantly a month or two after widespread release One UI 7.1 when all of the bugs get worked and the camera software is refined as it usually is. Now Android 16 is in Beta 1, so they have had the developer release for at least a month, but Samsung will be rolling out 7.1 on Android 15 when the Pixels are using Android 16. Why do these updates take so long? These device drivers and app are designed to work outside of the Kernel and run as individual apps . Sound like they are trying to use AI to write this code and then it needs to be corrected by humans since the AI is hallucinating like a crazy person. And now that I mention AI, everyone should turn those AI features off everywhere you can. It's a trap like the gingerbread house in Hansel and Greta. It's a good thing Hansel was so skeptical, it saved them, and being skeptical can save you too.

[@MoMo-hk1hn]

I bought every note to s22u, s23u,s24u, fold 1, 2,3,4,6 and this is the first time I'm not buying the s25u. I might just go to oneplus open 2. Samsung drop the ball big time.

[@TristanWegner-mw3id]

Oneplus deserves it aqua touch,new battery tech,better screen,16gb ram and all this for 1k meaning less than the s25u

[@sdmoore89]

I don't think they dropped the ball. I like the design and feel of the s25 ultra better than the boxier feel of the s24 ultra. I'm also thinking about getting the open 2. We'll have to see what it looks like

[@sdmoore89]

@TristanWegner-mw3id yeah but it doesn't have an spen. I need the pen. Battery tech is cool but I don't really worry about battery. I don't use my phone under water so aqua touch seems useless to me

[@TristanWegner-mw3id]

@sdmoore89 but u use it in the rain eventually and oneplus thought how to make this experience more advanced and reliable that's what solving real world issues looks like... And ur pen got downgraded but go ahead I can't support companies that engage in such things like samsung does it would mean a lack of self respect

[@sdmoore89]

@TristanWegner-mw3id yo I'm not the type to stand in the rain and use my phone. I'm usually trying to get out of the rain. I feel you not supporting Samsung. I support them because they make features I care about and use. Also if something happens to the phone I can usually get it repaired within a few hours.

[@CBLifeHacks]

I just purchased the s25. Switching from an iphone pro Max. Also i've been a super apple fan boy i've purchased pretty much everything they've came out with. I think its funny hearing Android people say the s25 is a miss. I think its like apple people getting tired of the same phone every year. I switched to a cheap moto q Android with the stylus just to see if I would like the ecosystem/ software and I thought wow this is amazing I can only imagine how it would be if I got one of the Ultra phones s24 or s25 hence the upgrade.

[@TechOdyssey]

Congratulations on breaking free

[@BrodeeRaney-zl1kf]

Fuck that! I’ll stick to pixel from Apple , the worst thing you can do is take the s pen!

[@TechOdyssey]

@@BrodeeRaney-zl1kf huh?

[@ljacobs357]

Wtf.

[@Jens_Roadster]

The S-pen is still there lol.

[@ER0CK5_]

Pixel is most definitely NOT from Apple, dude lol. It is the Google Pixel. And they aren't taking away the S Pen.

[@mqproductions]

Yeah, stick with a phone that has no pen at all. You guys are a bunch of wannabe tech enthusiasts. This phone is heat, only the mfs that can't upgrade are talking shid. I don't want an iPhone and I don't want off-brand Chinese crap either. The Ultra is still better than the XL too.

[@billmortin3724]

Yes a rip off! If they give such a big discount from day 1 , there is your smoke. Taking away functionality with no real hardware upgrades there's your fire. The software upgrades could be given to all Samsung phones from 2023 and forward. Lazy, $ grab.

[@vegasman53]

Stop pissing on my leg and tell me it's raining. I have lost all resect for your channel. You are unable to just come our and say this phone is the s24 with a new processor and a few bells and whistles. Sorry your putting out a new video twice a day to get clicks but just be honest with your viewers. This phone sucks. Your whole video is ...nothings but ....on the other hand...No this phone is a $1300 software upgrade..

[@ER0CK5_]

It's not his fault you can't comprehend the upgrades.

[@TechOdyssey]

I have explained in detail what is new and the upgrades. Just because you don’t like what I have to say doesn’t mean that I’m not being honest. I’ve been very honest and I’ve covered pretty much every facet of the phone and its upgrades, the stuff that’s missing, and given it a very holistic approach or coverage. Sadly it seems you’re just upset and projecting that onto me because I am not going to sit here and say that a good phone sucks, when I like the phone and objectively it’s a very good phone. So, if you have “lost respect” for me, that’s a you problem. Sorry you feel that way but I’ve been completely honest with my assessment and feelings and I even put my money where my mouth is and bought my own. Maybe you need to look inwardly and figure out what you’re trolling yourself and getting so upset about a phone that you really shouldn’t be doing a yearly upgrade on anyway and expecting something revolutionary. That’s not how the phone industry works anymore.

[@dino575]

Been watching your channel a while - this is a really honest review. I had my s25U on pre order but in the end cancelled it down , even though I got a good price with buds3 thrown in, in the end there is just not enough of a change for the price. I will stick to my s23 ultra which has been great. I dont care about the SPen - but 12gigs or ram and virtually no other upgrades - and a bunch of AI in truth I wont use often - no thanks. So cancelled my pre order - and will see what else is on the market for a few 100 less. Shame as I love samsung but the s25U sucks balls.

[@davidmartins9284]

Ok it’s time for unfollow. Enough of s25 videos

[@FallenKiid]

Bye bye 👋

[@TechOdyssey]

Bye 👋

[@phillatella6470]

My tears are hitting my s25 ultra.... .. please.... Good bye

[@BIG_TOE]

GIRL BAI

[@Danilio.]

What do you mean? The phone just came out!

[@bronxtaskforce01]

The question I have is how the Korean power users reacted when they found out the S-Pen has no Bluetooth feature. If users in Korea are receiving better specs than the US, then it's time to back away from Samsung and look into a manufacture that will treat everyone the same way no matter what country. I've been with Samsung since the Note 4 that i still have. I think it's time to separate myself from Samsung and look into Sony, Plus One, etc.

[@Dahsar-ne1xm]

For all we know they probably kept it for that market. They always seem to give everybody else the best stuff not here. Like they did 16 gig ram.

[@curbsidetech]

Seems like a nice upgrade coming from an older device.

[@TechOdyssey]

For sure.

[@Soto-Tech2020]

Yeah, I was sooo ready to order the phone immediately but the removal of the Spen Bluetooth functionalities has upset me so much that caused me to pause and think twice.

[@Mr.ErikSnake]

This launch was an L 👎🏼 for Samsung

[@josephhernandez7307]

The other deal breaker is the 6 month of free Gemini Advanced and after is 20 dollars a month when the original rumors said one full year

[@kewlztertc5386]

Gemini advanced isn't worth it. I predict it will be completely free in a few years. You can circumvent the charge now by clicking the but then backing out.

[@TristanWegner-mw3id]

Also regarding recent events with deepseek which shows these prices are probably way to high inflated bs

[@TechOdyssey]

That’s why we don’t pay too much attention to rumors. They usually only lead to disappointment

[@josephhernandez7307]

@TechOdyssey that's true

[@DominickGiammarinoAZ]

Newly subscribed to your channel, thanks I'm glad I'm holding off this one, looking forward to the coming years when there's an end display camera instead of a hole cut out. Great analysis

[@TechOdyssey]

I’m glad you like the channel!

[@Junieeeeeee]

I am an iPhone user who is switching over to the Samsung Ultra. I've had Samsung in the past and I really did love them so I was excited to come back but seeing many people being negative about the phone made me feel like I made the wrong choice? I have never had a Note or an Ultra before so I guess I never experienced the Bluetooth features so I think it's like I won't know what I'm "missing out on". Like you said, I don't blame people for being upset about it, I'm sure if I would feel the same if I was in their shoes but I fear that it might push away people from wanting to buy it based on how others are reacting.

[@TechOdyssey]

Welcome back to Android!

[@Hypernaked1]

Welcome aboard. If you are coming from an iPhone no big deal on this situation since you've never had an s pen with Bluetooth or an s pen at all (iphone) so you'll adapt fine. Android is a vast universe so also look at other competitors out there going forward into the future. 🎉

[@sirmintyclack]

I would encourage you to take all the pissing and moaning about the Bluetooth sPen as a grain of salt consideration. Look at the whole package you are getting. Then make your own decision based on YOUR needs/preferences. Every year people find something to complain about every phone. So first of all, the cost of everything is going for everybody even corporate entities such as Samsung. So the cost of manufacturing the same sPen for the Galaxy S25 Ultra was more expensive than for all previous models. Very few corporations will eat the rising cost of manufacturing. Is this still a shite situation for consumers? Yes it is. Would consumers be pissing and moaning about a price increase for the Galaxy S25 line? Yes they would. Samsung knew they had to make a choice (1) piss people off by taking Bluetooth and battery out of the sPen for the S25 Ultra or (2) piss people off by passing the increased manufacturing costs onto consumer by increasing the price of the S25 Ultra. Samsung knew that either choice would spark a firestorm of consumer hate towards them. IN MY OPINION, I think Samsung chose the lesser of the two wevils (bonus points if anyone knows that reference). I would rather have zero price increase versus a price increase with Bluetooth features I barely used. Call me crazy - wouldn't be the first time 🤷‍♂️ I will say that I seriously doubt Samsung didn't have the ability to take a profit loss and give the sPen Bluetooth features on the S25 Ultra.