The anticipation surrounding Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series is reaching a fever pitch as the expected January launch draws near. Leaks and rumors continue to surface, offering tantalizing glimpses of the upcoming flagship devices. Pre-order information suggests that eager fans won’t have to endure a long wait to secure their own S25. Reports indicate that pre-orders could open as early as January 24th, just two days after the anticipated Galaxy Unpacked event on January 22nd, and continue until February 3rd. Sales are then expected to commence on February 4th, with a full retail launch on February 7th. This timeline represents a slight delay compared to the S24 launch, which occurred a week earlier in 2024.
Adding fuel to the pre-release excitement, accessory manufacturers have inadvertently revealed details about the S25 lineup. Dbrand, a company known for its device skins and cases, has listed skins for the Galaxy S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra. While the “x-ray” internal views are not yet available, the listings confirm design elements such as the sharper, more defined corners anticipated for the S25 family. These redesigned corners are expected to maximize internal space within a similar overall footprint. The camera island and the placement of buttons and ports appear to remain consistent with the S24 models.
As is customary, Samsung is expected to offer enticing pre-order deals to incentivize early adopters. Previous offers have included storage upgrades, discounts on accessories like the Galaxy Buds and Galaxy Watch, and exclusive color options available only through the Samsung Store. Similar promotions are anticipated for the S25 series, possibly incorporating the latest Galaxy Buds and Watch models. Consumers interested in specific colorways should pay close attention to retailer exclusives to avoid disappointment.
Beyond the standard S25 models, speculation abounds regarding a fourth variant, tentatively dubbed the Galaxy S25 Special Edition. This model is rumored to follow the precedent set by the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Special Edition, offering a slimmer profile than the standard S25. Evidence for this special edition comes from the GSMA IMEI database, which lists a fourth model – the SM-S937 – positioned between the S25+ and S25 Ultra. This listing lends credence to the existence of the special edition, hinting at a slightly later release.
Further examination of the OneUI beta, Samsung’s Android skin, provides clues about the release schedule of the S25 series. References to three US models (SM-S931, SM-S936, and SM-S938), corresponding to the S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra, are present within the beta. These models align with the expected initial release at the Galaxy Unpacked event. Conspicuously absent is any mention of the fourth SM-S937 model, suggesting that the Special Edition will not be part of the initial launch wave.
The omission of the Galaxy S25 Special Edition from the OneUI beta strongly suggests a staggered release strategy. While the standard S25 models are primed for an imminent launch, the Special Edition appears to be lagging behind in development. This delayed release echoes the strategy employed with the Galaxy Z Fold 6 Special Edition, which arrived several months after the initial Z Fold 6 launch. The evidence suggests the Special Edition is in development, but requires further refinement before it’s ready for market. This approach allows Samsung to generate initial excitement with the core S25 lineup, followed by a renewed wave of interest with the later release of the Special Edition, potentially targeting a niche market segment.
