As we say goodbye to 2024 and enter a new year, it’s only natural to start thinking about upgrading your phone. Already, industry experts expect 2025 to be a massive year for new smartphone technology and improved artificial intelligence features.
Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S series of devices is known for its cutting-edge technology and premium design. Samsung has consistently been at the forefront of pushing new technology in the smartphone industry, like 5G connection and curved displays.
While Apple and Google have already been including AI features on their phone, Samsung’s competitor—Galaxy AI—is shaping up to be a strong competitor. Samsung has also been teasing massive announcements for Galaxy AI upgrades for their 2025 Unpacked event.
In this article, we’ll be delving into the rumoured specifications and features of the S25 and discussing whether it’ll be worth upgrading. We’ll also explore the possibility of purchasing a refurbished S25.
The Rumours of the Specs and Features of the S25
The Galaxy S25 is all but confirmed at this point. Samsung has announced the Galaxy S25 will be released on January 22nd, 2025. Despite the details not yet being released, numerous leaks and rumours have been circulating online about the phone’s hardware and software.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the most anticipated features from trustworthy sources. Please keep in mind that the specs may be different at launch.
Improved Galaxy AI functionality
It’s no secret that Samsung plans to go all in on artificial intelligence with the S25. It’s been covered endlessly in leaks, and Samsung has teased massive reveals about the upcoming Unpacked event. The debut for Galaxy AI was promising, and Samsung is poised to improve current assistive tools, like live translations, and add new features.
Enhanced camera system
While most of the rumours surrounding the S25 don’t include any significant camera changes, an upgrade to the ultrawide lens camera and improvements to the telephoto lens are expected.
Stronger processor
Many tech professionals believe all the new S25 models will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. This would be a huge improvement over the chipset found in the S24 models, with an alleged 45% improvement to the CPU, and the new Adreno GPU should allow for a performance boost of up to 40%.
Dynamic AMOLED Display
Samsung’s signature Dynamic AMOLED Display is expected to return for the S25 line of phones. Regarding upgrades, the S25 could potentially support a higher refresh rate and/or resolution for a better user experience.
Better battery life
With intensive activities, like streaming and gaming, becoming more common on mobile, battery life is becoming more important for consumers. Larger battery capacities and better optimisation resulting in a longer-lasting battery are expected for the Galaxy S25.
Similar to its predecessors, the Galaxy S25 should also launch alongside various model options. Consumers can expect the Galaxy S25 Plus and S25 Ultra premium devices and potentially a budget-friendly S25 FE down the line.
For Galaxy S24 users considering the S25, it’ll be an incremental upgrade for the most part. The biggest change will be the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, which should boast better gaming performance and better battery life due to optimisation.
Hands-on previews with the Snapdragon 8 Elite were incredibly positive. The chipset features the new 2nd Generation Oryon CPU and Adreno GPU. The chipset’s new Hexagon™ NPU will also provide better AI performance.
Qualcomm has also promised that the Snapdragon 8 Elite will be able to provide ‘console-like gaming’. While other manufacturers, like ASUS, OnePlus, and HONOR, are eyeing the Snapdragon 8 Elite, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 will be one of the first devices to utilise the technology.
Will It Be Worth Upgrading?
Whether the Galaxy S25 will be worth upgrading depends on a few factors. This includes what Samsung announces at the 2025 Unpacked event, your current device, and what you primarily use your phone for.
The above-listed rumours and leaks are just a way to give you an idea of whether you need to plan ahead for picking up a new phone. For example, if you decide the upgraded processor and AI features are worth it, you can start saving for the phone and accessories now.
If you’re a Galaxy S24 owner, it might be harder to decide whether an upgrade is worth it. If you’re someone who is always striving to have the best performance and technology, the Snapdragon 8 Elite alone will make it worth it. It’ll deliver a massive boost to gaming across the board.
If you have an older Samsung device or you’re looking to swap from the Apple ecosystem, the Galaxy S25 is a great opportunity to upgrade. The information gathered from leaks and rumours is shaping up the S25 to be one of the best entry points into the Android ecosystem.
The Galaxy S25 will also be providing performance that will be mostly unrivalled by other devices in the same price range. Because Galaxy AI has had time for testing, it’s also expected the AI-powered tools will be much more effective and polished on the S25.
When considering if you should upgrade, we recommend thinking about the following factors:
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How old is your current phone, and is the device’s performance still satisfactory? Is it lagging when you’re trying to play games? Is the browser too slow?
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The Galaxy S25 is likely to have a premium price tag as it is Samsung’s flagship device. So, it’s good to consider your budget. If price is a concern, it will also be possible to purchase a refurbished model after launch.
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Consider your needs. Do you need a powerful processor? Is the longer battery life important for your lifestyle?
Will The Samsung Galaxy S25 Be Available Refurbished?
Refurbished phones are becoming an increasingly popular option for those wanting a cost-effective solution to upgrading their tech. Like with most new models, it is unlikely that the Samsung Galaxy S25 will be available refurbished immediately after launch.
For most phone models, it typically takes a few weeks to a few months after launch for refurbished models to become available. Once the S25 has been officially revealed and launched, we recommend checking in with reputable refurbished retailers about availability.
Purchasing a refurbished phone can be an incredible way to save money and also support eco-friendly business practices. Buying refurbished extends the life of a mobile device and also contributes to a circular economy.
Buying refurbished also helps cut down electronic waste, reduce greenhouse emissions, and recycle hardware. The refurbished smartphone market helps reduce up to 91% of the smartphone industry’s environmental impact every year.
Buy The Latest Samsung Galaxy Phones at OzMobiles
If you’re looking to upgrade your phone, buying a refurbished device is cost-effective and eco-friendly. Here at OzMobiles, we stock a large range of refurbished Samsung Galaxy phones, including the latest models and accessories.
At OzMobiles, all the devices we sell come with a free 12-month warranty and a 30-day risk-free return policy. So, if you have a change of heart or any concerns, you can reach out to our team for support.
Our devices also go through an extensive refurbishment process conducted by a qualified technician at our Melbourne headquarters. This includes checking all the components, from the hardware to the software level, to ensure they are fully functional and running optimally.
If you have any questions about our refurbished devices or need help choosing a phone, contact us today. The OzMobiles team would love to hear from you and connect you with the right device.