Samsung’s upcoming Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus has been the subject of much speculation, especially regarding its chipset choice. While previous leaks suggested a universal use of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite, recent Geekbench listings hint at the possible inclusion of Samsung’s Exynos 2500 chip for certain regions. Below, we break down everything we know about the Galaxy S25+ in terms of design, performance, chipset strategies, and more.
Key Highlights
- Chipset Dilemma: Samsung Galaxy S25+ spotted with both Exynos 2500 and Snapdragon 8 Elite.
- Performance Gap: Snapdragon significantly outperforms Exynos in benchmarks.
- Launch Date: Expected January 22, 2025.
- Specifications: Includes Android 15, 12GB RAM, and regional chipset variations.
- Future Plans: Exynos 2500 to feature in Galaxy Z Flip 7 instead of Galaxy S25+.
Detailed Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 15 |
| RAM | 12GB |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Elite / Exynos 2500 |
| Display | Expected Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz |
| Launch Date | January 22, 2025 |
| Geekbench Scores | Exynos: 2,358 (Single), 8,211 (Multi) |
| Snapdragon: 3,160 (Single), 9,941 (Multi) | |
| Regions | Snapdragon for U.S.; Exynos for Europe |
| Storage | Starting at 256GB, expandable options |
| Battery | Estimated 4,800mAh with fast charging |
| Camera | Triple camera setup with improved AI |
Chipset Strategy: Exynos vs. Snapdragon
Exynos 2500: A Second Chance?
The Exynos 2500 has reappeared in recent Geekbench tests for the Galaxy S25+. Despite early rumors of its exclusion, the listing with model code SM-S936B shows an Exynos-powered device. However, this chipset lags behind Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite in performance.
- Geekbench Scores:
- Exynos 2500: 2,358 (Single-Core), 8,211 (Multi-Core).
- Snapdragon 8 Elite: 3,160 (Single-Core), 9,941 (Multi-Core).
- Performance Gap: The Snapdragon variant outpaces Exynos by 20-40%.
- Regions: U.S. models are likely to feature Snapdragon, while Europe might get Exynos.
Snapdragon 8 Elite Dominance
Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chip is widely regarded as the top performer for flagship devices. Its inclusion in the Galaxy S25+ promises superior efficiency, better gaming performance, and advanced AI capabilities.
Design and Display
The Galaxy S25+ is expected to feature Samsung’s signature premium design, likely with Gorilla Glass Victus protection and an aluminum frame. Its display is rumored to use a Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and vibrant visuals.
- Size: Approximately 6.7 inches.
- Resolution: Quad HD+ for sharper details.
- Enhancements: Improved energy efficiency compared to previous models.
Performance and RAM
With 12GB of RAM onboard, the Galaxy S25+ ensures multitasking capabilities for power users. Combined with Android 15, the phone will offer seamless transitions between apps and advanced customization features. Storage options are expected to start at 256GB, with possible expansions available.
Camera Capabilities
Samsung is known for its innovative camera systems, and the Galaxy S25+ will likely continue this trend with significant AI-driven improvements:
- Primary Sensor: 108MP with better low-light performance.
- Ultra-Wide: Enhanced for group shots and landscapes.
- Telephoto Lens: Improved zoom capabilities with stabilization.
- Software Features: AI scene detection and real-time video enhancements.
Battery and Charging
The Galaxy S25+ is rumored to house a 4,800mAh battery, ensuring a full day’s usage even under heavy workloads. Fast charging and wireless charging support are expected, with reverse wireless charging capabilities for accessories like earbuds.
Exynos 2500: Reassigned to Galaxy Z Flip 7
While the Exynos 2500 won’t be the main chipset for the Galaxy S25 series, Samsung plans to feature it in the upcoming Galaxy Z Flip 7. This move aims to revive Samsung’s in-house chipset business. The Z Flip 7 will be the first foldable to feature an Exynos processor.
Why the Shift?
- Stabilized Production: Samsung’s 3nm process has improved, making Exynos viable for 2026 models.
- Performance Gaps: Despite improvements, Exynos still lags behind Snapdragon.
Samsung’s Future Plans: Galaxy S26 and Beyond
Samsung is looking to close the performance gap with Qualcomm by the time the Galaxy S26 launches in 2026. The company’s investment in 2nm production processes aims to ensure that future Exynos chipsets compete globally.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S25+ brings exciting features but remains clouded by chipset controversies. While the Snapdragon 8 Elite promises top-tier performance, the reappearance of Exynos 2500 benchmarks raises questions about regional variations. Samsung’s focus on refining its Exynos lineup for future devices, such as the Galaxy S26 and Z Flip 7, suggests a promising path ahead. As we await the Galaxy S25 series launch on January 22, 2025, consumers can look forward to a blend of innovation and performance tailored to different regions.
