Samsung’s blog post reveals the design evolution of the Galaxy S25 Ultra compared to previous models. The packaging now features a device silhouette on recycled paper. Contents include the Bluetooth-less S Pen and other accessories. The S25 Ultra boasts a more ergonomic rounded-corner design, flat sides, and slimmer bezels, allowing for a larger 6.9” screen while reducing weight by 14g. The camera rings now feature a black trim for improved durability. Additionally, the phone is equipped with a custom Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and an enhanced cooling system. A “Guided Demo of Performance” video was also released to showcase its capabilities.
Samsung has published a blog entry that outlines the inspirations behind the design of the Galaxy S25 Ultra and how it has evolved from previous flagship models. Furthermore, they released a video titled “Guided Demo of Performance,” featuring the S25 Ultra.
This post serves as an unboxing overview, starting with the packaging. This year, the design was updated to showcase a silhouette of the device instead of the more realistic illustrations seen in earlier versions.
The packaging continues to utilize 100% recycled paper, and its contents remain quite straightforward: the S25 Ultra device, a new Bluetooth-less S Pen, a USB C-to-C cable, a SIM ejector tool, and a brief manual.
The Ultra models are typically available in predominantly grayish shades, and the 2025 version follows suit. In addition to four standard colors, there are three shades exclusive to Samsung.com. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the colors.
Previous Ultra models had a rectangular frame with sharp corners – an attractive look, but not especially user-friendly. This year, Samsung has softened the corners and altered the profile of the sides, making them flat instead of rounded. This gives the S25 trio a more harmonious appearance, aligning it with the rounded corner and flat-sided designs of the vanilla and Plus models.
Another notable update in the design is that Samsung has managed to reduce the bezels by 0.2mm, which now measure just 1.32mm. This change permitted an increase in the screen diagonal by 0.1” (now measuring 6.9”). The display is safeguarded by Gorilla Glass Armor 2, a glass ceramic material designed to be more resistant to drops than its predecessor. It also features an anti-reflective property unique to the Ultra model.
Beyond the corners, previous Ultra models were relatively heavy and thick. The Galaxy S25 Ultra has shed 14g in weight and has become 0.4mm slimmer compared to the prior model. It now weighs 218g and is 8.2mm thick.
There are also the camera rings that have garnered significant attention. Samsung noted that opting for a black trim instead of silver helps the lenses blend more seamlessly, while the thicker camera rings enhance durability.
You can read our review of the Galaxy S25 Ultra for our insights on the new design (and be sure to check out our video review). We also have comparisons between the S25 Ultra and its predecessor as well as the Pixel 9 Pro XL.
Lastly, be sure to watch Samsung’s Guided Demo of Performance video. It highlights the custom Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset, an enhanced cooling system (now featuring a 40% larger vapor chamber), and the overall increased durability of the device.
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