Galaxy S25 Ultra S Pen Released, Fans Disappointed by Bluetooth Removal

Samsung has introduced its new flagship Galaxy S25 Ultra smartphone at a global launch event held on January 23. One of the standout features of this device is the S Pen, a traditional element of the Ultra series. However, this time, Samsung has made some significant alterations to both its design and functionality, leading to mixed feedback from fans.

New S Pen Features and Pricing

The updated S Pen for the Galaxy S25 Ultra is now available on Samsung’s official website for $49.99. It comes in three colors: Black, Light Grey, and Light Silver. This stylus boasts a 1.5mm tip and an impressive 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, making it great for writing and drawing. It also keeps the Air Command function, which many users appreciate.

Nevertheless, Samsung’s decision to classify the S Pen as a “passive specification” has caused some concern. Unlike previous models, the S Pen for the S25 Ultra lacks Bluetooth support, which means it no longer has features like Air Actions, remote camera control, and other hover-related functions. This represents a substantial change from older versions, which offered advanced features that many Note series fans relied on. The removal of Bluetooth also eliminates the need for charging the S Pen, fitting with Samsung’s efforts to simplify design and reduce costs.

Confusion Over Compatibility

Adding to the confusion, an initial blog post from Samsung hinted that Bluetooth-enabled S Pens, like the S Pen Pro, would be compatible with the S25 Ultra. This raised hopes among fans looking for a way to regain Bluetooth capabilities. However, Samsung later corrected this information, stating to Android Authority that the Galaxy S25 Ultra does not support any Bluetooth S Pens. This clarification left many users feeling let down, especially those who valued the advanced features found in previous models.

The backlash from fans regarding the removal of Bluetooth connectivity has been noticeable. Social media and online forums are filled with complaints from users who depended on features such as remote camera control and air gestures. Many are questioning the reasoning behind Samsung’s choice, especially since these functionalities were popular among loyal Note and Ultra users.

Samsung’s Justification and Future Implications

Samsung defends this decision by citing low usage rates for the removed features, along with the increased complexity and costs they brought. However, this move might indicate a larger shift in Samsung’s approach, possibly leading to a complete phase-out of the S Pen in future releases. Longtime users of the stylus are concerned that this downgrade could signal the gradual disappearance of one of the notable characteristics of the Galaxy Ultra series.

For individuals who mainly use the S Pen for simple tasks like note-taking, these changes might not be a deal-breaker. However, for power users who relied on Bluetooth features, the S Pen for the Galaxy S25 Ultra feels like a significant downgrade. Whether Samsung’s strategy will be successful is yet to be determined, but it is evident that this decision has left a considerable portion of the fan community unhappy.


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