Samsung Galaxy S25 Review: Compact Flagship Redefined

The Samsung Galaxy S25 stands out as a compact flagship device that enhances Samsung’s existing strengths without introducing revolutionary changes. It possesses a premium feel and is user-friendly with one hand, an uncommon feature in 2025. However, with only minor hardware enhancements and a strong emphasis on AI software, the question arises if the ₹80,999 price tag is justified. Let’s examine its features closely.

Design & Display: Small yet Powerful

Favouring smaller phones after years of larger models, the S25’s compact design is refreshing. The 6.2-inch 2X AMOLED display offers excellent brightness, clarity, and smoothness with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 2,600 nits peak brightness. This display remains unchanged from the previous S24 model.

Slightly thinner than its predecessor, the S25 may not feel different unless compared side by side. The Silver Shadow variant showcases a stunning frosted finish, though the Navy Blue option is also appealing.

Additionally, Samsung has introduced Qi2 wireless charging; however, one must have a Qi2-compatible case to utilize this feature.

Performance & Battery: A Major Success

The inclusion of the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy enables impressive speed for the S25. Tasks ranging from gaming to multitasking and utilising AI-powered features are all executed smoothly. The improved battery efficiency allows for over 28 hours of video playback, ranking it among the best in battery life for compact flagship devices.

In daily use, the device can last up to two full days on a single charge with moderate usage, an impressive feat for a phone of this size.

Cameras: Good Performance, Lacking Major Innovations

The camera specifications remain the same, featuring a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP 3x telephoto camera. However, enhancements have been made to software processing. The Snapdragon 8 Elite supports better low-light noise reduction and improved sharpness in digital zoom, resulting in more practical 10x zoom images.

Despite these improvements, Samsung’s AI-driven camera capabilities still lag behind what Apple and Google offer. Night photographs can sometimes appear overly warm, and Samsung’s new Virtual Aperture mode seems more like a minor tweak to the Portrait Mode than a significant innovation.

In terms of video, HDR recording is now default, and Galaxy Log mode enables professionals to adjust footage more efficiently. The Audio Eraser, Samsung’s noise reduction powered by AI, performs well but may occasionally render voices unnatural.

AI Features: Improved Utility, Not Groundbreaking

Samsung’s focus on AI integration includes deeper Google Gemini support and innovative Galaxy AI functionalities. Some offer practical benefits:

• Now Bar & Now Brief attempt to enhance notification usefulness, though they feel somewhat limited initially.
• AI Select simplifies text copying, translation, and calendar event addition.
• Context-aware voice commands with Gemini AI enhance tasks like setting reminders, planning routes, or sending messages.

While the potential of these AI features is notable, they currently do not feel indispensable—especially considering they may be subject to future paywall restrictions.

Final Thoughts: Excellent Small Flagship, Minor Upgrade

The Samsung Galaxy S25 is an exceptional compact flagship, ranking highly among current favourites in its category. Priced at ₹80,999, it represents a solid albeit incremental upgrade. Those moving from an S22 or an earlier model may find it an excellent choice, while existing users of the last flagship model might consider waiting for promotional offers.