The Samsung Galaxy S25 series, still shrouded in mystery, is inching closer to its launch date in early 2025. A significant leak from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) website, initially spotted by 91Mobiles, offers an in-depth sneak peek at the upcoming flagship lineup. While some specifications align with expectations, others present surprising – and potentially disappointing – revelations.
The FCC listings point to three models within the Galaxy S25 family: SM-931U, SM-936U, and SM-938U. Across the board, all three models will boast 5G connectivity, ensuring high-speed data access. Additionally, they’ll offer seamless connectivity with dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GNSS (global navigation satellite system) for precise location services, and NFC (near-field communication) for tap-to-pay features. This consistent core functionality sets a solid foundation for the series.
However, the leak reveals a significant divergence between the models concerning Ultra-Wide Band (UWB) technology. Only the Galaxy S25 Plus and S25 Ultra appear to include UWB, leaving the base S25 model without this precision location feature. UWB facilitates enhanced item tracking and the precise location of lost devices, representing a notable omission for the entry-level model. This is a significant difference, and a continuation of a trend seen in the S24 lineup, which leaves users questioning whether this omission is a strategic cost-cutting measure or a simple oversight.
Adding to the potential disappointment, the leak suggests a potential downgrade in charging capabilities for the base S25 model. Testing reveals the S25 uses the EP-TA800 travel adapter, indicating a maximum wired charging speed of 25W, matching the S24. However, wireless charging appears to have been reduced to only 9W, a step down from the 15W offered by the S24. This is a surprising development, especially considering the availability of more advanced Qi2 wireless charging technology. In contrast, the S25 Plus and S25 Ultra, tested with the EP-T2510 adapter, maintain 45W wired charging speeds, mirroring their S24 counterparts. Battery capacities across all three models appear to be similar to those of their predecessors.
The S Pen makes a return, exclusively for the S25 Ultra, identified by the model number EJ-PS938. Furthermore, the leaked specs confirm the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset will power the entire S25 lineup, offering top-tier performance expected from Samsung’s flagship phones.
While the inclusion of the Snapdragon 8 Elite and the 5G capabilities are positive developments, the downgraded wireless charging speed for the base model is concerning. The lack of UWB on the base model, while consistent with its predecessor, is a point of contention for those seeking the most advanced features. While many will likely dismiss the lack of UWB and slower charging on the base model as price-based segmentation, the question remains if it is a justifiable trade-off, particularly considering the existence of enhanced wireless charging technology.
In conclusion, this FCC leak provides significant insights into the Samsung Galaxy S25 series. The overall picture suggests a blend of expected enhancements and surprising compromises, especially concerning the base model’s charging capabilities and the absence of UWB. The early 2025 launch will confirm if these leaks are accurate and how Samsung addresses the trade-offs presented by this information.
