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Samsung is set to revolutionize the smartphone landscape with its upcoming Galaxy S25 Ultra launch, placing artificial intelligence (AI) at the forefront of mobile innovation. The flagship device, scheduled for release in Kenya on January 22 during the annual Galaxy Unpacked event, marks Samsung’s most ambitious integration of generative AI in a mobile device.

The high end Galaxy S25 Ultra represents a fundamental shift in how humans interact with smartphones, with the company seemingly not just adding AI features to the device but also reimagining the entire mobile experience around AI.

A real AI companion

Among the standout features is “AI Companion,” an advanced virtual assistant that can generate images, compose emails, and even create short videos based on text descriptions. The system uses Samsung’s proprietary large language model, which has been specifically trained to understand local Kenyan languages and contexts.

“Sketch to Image, now integrated into Drawing Assist, is now evolving. Utilizing more than a single input, like drawing with the S Pen or one’s finger, to a multimodal experience,” the company explains on its website. “Now, users can breathe life into their ideas by sketching them, describing the image they want with text or using voice commands to tell their Galaxy smartphone what to draw. If it can be envisioned, Galaxy AI can create it.”

With One UI 7, Samsung’s first integrated AI platform, the device will become a real AI companions that understands natural language through text, speech and images. This could set a new standard of multimodal mobile AI for unprecedented creativity.

The camera system has also received a significant AI upgrade. The 200MP main sensor now works in conjunction with AI algorithms to enhance image quality in challenging conditions. Scene Optimizer can recognize and adjust settings for local events, traditional attire, and African cuisine, ensuring optimal results for local content creators.

With AI-powered Auto Framing, the camera can follow moving subjects and dynamically adjust focus for crisp, clear images. Night Mode will see improvements thanks to AI, delivering brighter, clearer photos in low light with reduced noise

The device introduces Galaxy AI Portrait Studio, a suite of generative AI tools that operates entirely on-device, ensuring privacy and functionality without requiring constant internet connectivity. This includes real-time translation in 30 languages, AI-powered image editing capabilities, and contextual assistance that learns from user behavior.

Upgraded chipset

Speed and efficiency have long been hallmarks of Samsung’s devices. In terms of performance, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is expected to be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chip.  Although there’s a possibility that this chip could be exclusive to the US market with an Exynos variant for other regions, this scenario seems quite unlikely. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or working, the experience is expected to be seamless and fluid.

Could this be the smartphone that matches your every demand? Yes, the device is touted to give the best output on generative AI apps such as ChatGPT, Claude and Grok and photo and video generation tools like DALLE-3, Midjourney, Canva, Adobe Firefly and Stable Diffusion. Samsung is anticipated to push the boundaries with AI enhancements from last year’s flagship, introducing new features that unlock further capabilities for a more personalized and productive user experience.

Privacy concerns around AI have been addressed with Samsung’s “Knox Vault” security system. All AI processing occurs on the device, with users having complete control over their data. The system includes new features specifically designed to protect against AI-related security threats.

The launch event will feature interactive AI demonstrations, allowing potential customers to experience the technology firsthand. Samsung is already in partnership with local universities and colleges to further the development of AI applications relevant to the Kenyan market.

Early adopters will receive access to exclusive AI features through Samsung’s “AI Lab Beta Program,” allowing them to test and provide feedback on upcoming AI capabilities before their public release.

Industry experts predict the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s AI-centric approach could reshape the premium smartphone market in Kenya, particularly among business professionals and creative industries where AI capabilities offer tangible productivity benefits.

Durable and sleek design

The S25 Ultra is rumored to sport a titanium frame, a notable upgrade that enhances durability while maintaining a premium feel. Complemented by Corning’s glare-free glass, the device aims to minimize reflections and scratches. While retaining the flat profile of its predecessor, Samsung might introduce rounded edges for a more ergonomic and refined design.

The display could expand slightly to 6.9 inches, utilizing Dynamic AMOLED 2X technology. With a variable refresh rate from 1 to 120Hz, users can expect smoother scrolling and enhanced energy efficiency. Rumors suggest that Samsung might push the screen’s maximum brightness even further, ensuring improved visibility under direct sunlight—a critical improvement for outdoor use.

The S Pen is expected to return, solidifying the Ultra series as a favorite for productivity enthusiasts. Coupled with an IP68 rating, the phone will continue to offer resistance against water and dust, maintaining its rugged appeal.

While the battery capacity might remain similar to its predecessor due to spatial constraints, Samsung could enhance battery efficiency through optimizations. The familiar 45W wired charging speed is likely to persist, but the introduction of faster charging options would be a welcome enhancement for power users.

Key dates for pre-orders and official release

The upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event, which will be livestreamed on January 22 at 9pm EAT, will mark the beginning of Samsung’s 2024 premium smartphone rollout.

Breaking from its traditional launch pattern, Samsung appears to be implementing changes to its pre-order timeline. While previous Galaxy Unpacked events typically saw pre-orders opening immediately after the presentation, sources suggest that pre-orders for the S25 Ultra may not begin until Friday, January 24. This represents a strategic shift from the immediate availability that customers have come to expect. The pre-order window is expected to extend through Tuesday, February 4, giving potential buyers ample time to secure their devices.

The pre-order period is particularly significant for customers seeking the best value, as Samsung traditionally offers its most compelling incentives during this phase. Early buyers can expect exclusive colorways available only through Samsung.com, generous storage upgrades (such as receiving the 1TB model when purchasing the 512GB version), and attractive trade-in offers for a wide range of devices, including those from competitors like Apple and Google.

The official retail launch of the Galaxy S25 Ultra is set for Friday, February 7. On this date, pre-order customers should receive their devices, coinciding with the smartphone’s availability in retail stores worldwide. This synchronized release ensures that early adopters and retail customers can begin experiencing Samsung’s latest innovations simultaneously.

For those interested in being among the first to secure the new flagship device, Samsung’s website currently offers a registration system for launch updates. This service ensures that potential buyers will receive immediate notification when the pre-order period begins, helping them take advantage of the early-buyer benefits and exclusive offers.