Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Long-Term Review: Is It Still Worth It in 2026?
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, released in early 2025, has quickly become a benchmark in the smartphone industry, boasting impressive specifications, a state-of-the-art camera system, and robust performance. As we step into 2026, many users are asking: Is the S25 Ultra still worth your investment, especially with whispers of the upcoming Galaxy S26? This long-term review delves into the S25 Ultra's durability, software updates, and how it stands against the anticipated advancements of its successor.
The stakes are high. With a price tag that still hovers around $1,199, potential buyers must weigh the benefits of investing in the current flagship against the allure of upcoming technology. In a rapidly evolving market, understanding the longevity of the S25 Ultra could mean the difference between a prudent purchase or a costly misstep.
Deep Technical Analysis
The Galaxy S25 Ultra is powered by the Exynos 2400 or Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, depending on the region, which allows for outstanding performance, especially in multitasking and gaming scenarios. It features a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 3200 x 1440 pixels, capable of a 120Hz refresh rate, providing users with smooth scrolling and vibrant colors.
Specifications Overview
Here's a comparative look at the key specifications of the Galaxy S25 Ultra:
| Feature | Galaxy S25 Ultra | Galaxy S26 (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Exynos 2400/Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Exynos 2500/Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 |
| Display | 6.8" Dynamic AMOLED 2X | 6.9" Dynamic AMOLED 3X |
| Resolution | 3200 x 1440 | 3200 x 1440 |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Camera (Rear) | Quad: 200MP + 12MP + 10MP + 10MP | Quad: 200MP + 12MP + 10MP + 10MP |
| Battery | 5000mAh | 5500mAh |
| Software | One UI 6 on Android 14 | One UI 7 on Android 15 |
Despite its formidable specs, the S25 Ultra isn’t without its flaws. Users have reported that while the camera system remains top-notch, the zoom capabilities have been outperformed by competitors like the Google Pixel 10, which uses advanced computational photography to enhance long-distance shots.
Samsung has also integrated AI enhancements for photography and video, but these features can feel like a repackaging of existing technology rather than a groundbreaking leap forward. For instance, the Night Mode and Super Steady video features are excellent, but they don't offer the significant improvements one might expect from a new flagship.
Performance Benchmarks
In benchmark tests, the S25 Ultra consistently scores in the top tier, achieving around 1,600 single-core and 5,000 multi-core scores on Geekbench 5. This performance is comparable but slightly behind expectations for the upcoming S26, which analysts predict will reach 1,800 single-core and 5,500 multi-core scores due to improved chip architecture.
Historical Context
The Galaxy S series has long been a leader in the smartphone market, consistently pushing boundaries with each iteration. The S25 Ultra builds upon the legacy of its predecessors, particularly the S24 series, which introduced significant improvements in camera technology and battery life.
However, the S25 Ultra also arrives at a time of intense competition. Apple’s iPhone 17 series and Google’s Pixel 10 are formidable challengers, both offering unique features that appeal to different user bases. The S25 Ultra's release came amid a market shift where user expectations for durability, software longevity, and camera performance have reached unprecedented heights.
Samsung has historically been innovative, but it has also faced criticism for its software update policies. With the S25 Ultra, Samsung promises four years of major Android updates and five years of security updates, aligning itself more closely with Google's policy for the Pixel line. This commitment may serve as a pivotal factor for buyers considering longevity in their purchasing decisions.
Industry Impact & Competitive Landscape
The Galaxy S25 Ultra has not only set a high bar for Samsung but has also raised the stakes for its competitors. Apple, for instance, is under pressure to match Samsung’s camera capabilities while maintaining its ecosystem's integrity. The S25 Ultra has forced companies like OnePlus and Xiaomi to rethink their strategies, especially in how they market their camera systems and software support.
Competitive Implications
While the S25 Ultra shines with its robust feature set, it has also highlighted weaknesses in competitors’ offerings. For example, the Google Pixel 10 has gained traction for its superior software experience and camera performance, especially in low-light conditions. This has led to market shifts, pushing other brands to innovate rapidly.
"Samsung has raised the bar for what users expect from a flagship smartphone. The pressure is on competitors to innovate or risk losing market share," says tech analyst Jessica Lin.
As companies scramble to keep pace, the implications for pricing become evident. The S25 Ultra’s high-end pricing strategy may lead to a ripple effect, forcing competitors to either lower prices or enhance their offerings.
Expert/Company Response
In response to questions about the S25 Ultra's longevity, a Samsung spokesperson shared, "We are committed to providing our customers with a premium experience that lasts. The Galaxy S25 Ultra represents our dedication to innovation and user satisfaction, ensuring that every device is designed to evolve with our software updates."
Analysts have echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of software longevity in today’s market. The S25 Ultra’s support timeline positions it as a strong contender in the long-term smartphone landscape.
"Samsung’s commitment to software updates is a game changer. Users can invest in the S25 Ultra with confidence, knowing they will receive the latest features and security enhancements," states industry expert Mark Thompson.
Forward-Looking Close
As we look to the future, tech enthusiasts are buzzing about the Galaxy S26, expected to launch in early 2026. Rumored enhancements like improved battery life and even more advanced camera capabilities are already creating excitement. The S25 Ultra, while still powerful, will face new challenges as the S26 aims to outshine its predecessor.
In the coming months, consumers should watch for leaks and announcements regarding the S26’s specifications. If the rumors hold true, the S26 could redefine user expectations for smartphone performance and camera technology.
So, is the Galaxy S25 Ultra still worth it in 2026? For current users who appreciate its capabilities and enjoy Samsung's ecosystem, the answer is a resounding yes. However, prospective buyers may want to hold off just a little longer to see how the S26 measures up. The S25 Ultra is a solid investment, but with the rapidly approaching next generation, it may soon be time to reconsider what “premium” truly means in the smartphone world.
In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra remains one of the most formidable smartphones on the market as we enter 2026. Its blend of durability, performance, and software support makes it a worthy option, but potential buyers should keep a close eye on the upcoming S26 for the latest advancements in smartphone technology.
For those interested in purchasing the Galaxy S25 Ultra, you can find it here: Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.