Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Set at $1,300, Yet Removing the S Pen Sparks Worries

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Set at $1,300, Yet Removing the S Pen Sparks Worries

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Set at $1,300, Yet Removing the S Pen Sparks Worries


# Who is Impacted by Changes in Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra?

Samsung’s newest flagship, the **Galaxy S25 Ultra**, has sparked significant discussions, both favorable and unfavorable. While the smartphone features remarkable hardware and capabilities, some contentious changes have caused disappointment among specific users. So, who is precisely impacted by these modifications, and what is their level of significance?

## Advantages and Disadvantages of the Galaxy S25 Ultra

The **Galaxy S25 Ultra** is undeniably a formidable device. Featuring a **200MP quad-camera setup**, a **high-performance processor**, and **enhanced repairability**, it shines as one of the top Android smartphones on the market. Nevertheless, certain design decisions have ignited debates among Samsung’s devoted user base.

### The Qi2 Wireless Charging Debate

One of the most discussed topics is **Samsung’s adoption of Qi2 wireless charging**. In contrast to Apple’s MagSafe, which utilizes magnets for accessory alignment, Samsung’s variant is devoid of integrated magnets. This implies that users who depend on magnetic accessories like **wallets, stands, or car mounts** will need to acquire a separate **magnetic case** to restore the same functionality.

Although this may not deter the majority of users, it does impact those who have previously invested in Qi2-compatible accessories. The choice to exclude magnets from the device appears to be an unnecessary limitation, particularly as **other brands are fully supporting the Qi2 standard**.

### The Elimination of Bluetooth from the S Pen

One of the most debated alterations is **Samsung’s choice to exclude Bluetooth capability from the S Pen**. Previously, the **S Pen** could function as a **remote shutter, presentation clicker, and media controller**. Now, those functionalities have been removed.

Samsung claims that **fewer than 0.5% of users** actually utilized the Bluetooth features, which is the rationale behind their removal. However, this adjustment directly impacts **power users and loyal Galaxy Note enthusiasts**—the very consumers who opt for the Ultra model for its premium offerings.

Interestingly, **the S Pen still possesses most of the necessary hardware for Bluetooth functionality**, yet Samsung opted not to include the essential components. This decision likely saved the company **approximately $2 per unit**, but at the expense of aggravating its most faithful customers.

## Who is Most Impacted?

While the typical user might not find these adjustments concerning, **Samsung’s most devoted clientele**—those who purchase the **Ultra model annually**—are the ones most affected.

1. **Power Users & Note Enthusiasts**
– These individuals depend on the **S Pen’s advanced capabilities** for their productivity and creativity. The absence of Bluetooth restricts the potential uses of the stylus.

2. **Tech Aficionados & Early Adopters**
– Numerous tech-savvy users enjoy having the latest advanced features. The removal of functionality from a **$1,300 flagship smartphone** feels more like a downgrade than an enhancement.

3. **Qi2 Accessory Users**
– Users who utilize **magnetic accessories** with their devices will now have to invest in a **specialized case** to regain the expected functionality from Qi2.

## Is This a Wise Decision for Samsung?

From a **business standpoint**, eliminating Bluetooth from the S Pen and modifying Qi2 charging **helps Samsung save costs**. If they sell **25 million units** of the S25 Ultra, a $2 reduction in expenses per device translates to **$50 million in savings**.

However, this choice could **harm Samsung’s image** among its staunchest customers. The **Galaxy S Ultra series** has consistently been promoted as the **pinnacle of flagship phones**, offering nothing but the finest. Removing features—even those relied upon by a small fraction of users—can diminish the perception of the device as premium.

## What Lies Ahead?

It seems plausible that Samsung may **reinstate Bluetooth for the S Pen** and **add full Qi2 support** in the **Galaxy S26 Ultra**. Should customer feedback be overwhelmingly negative, Samsung might reconsider its approach, as they have with **prior design choices**.

For the moment, the **Galaxy S25 Ultra** remains an outstanding smartphone, but these minor concessions raise concerns regarding **Samsung’s long-term strategy**. Will they persist in eliminating features to reduce costs, or will they heed the voices of their most devoted users?

Only time will reveal the answer.