Samsung’s highly anticipated Galaxy Unpacked event, scheduled for January 22, 2025, promises a showcase of the next generation of Galaxy AI and connected peripherals. However, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on the new flagship smartphones: the Galaxy S25, Galaxy S25+, and Galaxy S25 Ultra. For eager consumers aiming to secure one of these devices, understanding the timeline and available offers is crucial. Samsung has already initiated a registration of interest program, offering a $50 voucher for additional eligible products to those who sign up by January 21st. This allows prospective buyers to express their interest and receive a small financial incentive for doing so.
The South Korean tech giant has also confirmed enticing pre-order reservation benefits, particularly for US consumers. A $50 credit towards any of the Galaxy S25 models is guaranteed, along with enhanced trade-in values reaching up to $900 for devices like the previous year’s flagship, the Galaxy S24 Ultra. While older or non-Samsung devices will be accepted for trade-in, their valuations will be understandably lower. Further sweetening the deal, Samsung is offering an additional $300 credit for “qualifying products,” likely encompassing newly launched or updated peripherals revealed during the Unpacked event. Speculation points towards new Galaxy Wear smartwatches, Galaxy Buds, and potentially even the innovative Galaxy Ring. As a final incentive, one lucky reservation holder will win a grand prize of a $5,000 Samsung credit voucher.
Samsung’s emphasis on trade-in programs continues a trend established with the 2024 launches of the Galaxy S24, Z Flip, and Z Fold. The company utilizes varying trade-in values, clearly outlined in the fine print, while highlighting the maximum potential discount. In its home market of South Korea, Samsung has introduced the “Galaxy Easy Compensation” program, allowing users to obtain online valuations for their old devices before sending them in for exchange. Currently supporting Galaxy S models back to the S20 and Galaxy Z models from the Z Flip3 and Z Fold3 onwards, this program streamlines the trade-in process. While currently limited to South Korea, Samsung has hinted at potential expansion to other regions in the future, suggesting a broader rollout of this convenient service.
The anticipated pre-order window for the Galaxy S25 series is expected to align with the conclusion of the Galaxy Unpacked event. While traditionally commencing immediately after the presentation, speculation suggests a potential delay to Friday, January 24th. Regardless of the precise start date, pre-orders are likely to conclude on Tuesday, February 4th. This pre-order period is crucial for securing the best deals, as Samsung often provides exclusive benefits, such as unique color options, free storage upgrades, and generous trade-in offers for various smartphone models, including those from competitors like Google and Apple.
Historically, Samsung’s pre-order period is accompanied by attractive incentives. Last year’s Galaxy S24 launch offered exclusive colors available only through Samsung.com, a free storage upgrade (e.g., receiving the 1TB model for the price of the 512GB), and generous trade-in allowances for a broad range of smartphones from Samsung and competitors like Apple and Google. These attractive offers aim to incentivize early adoption and reward loyal customers.
Following the registration of interest, the Unpacked event, and the pre-order period, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is expected to begin shipping and become available in retail stores on Friday, February 7th. This marks the culmination of the anticipation and provides consumers with the opportunity to finally experience the latest flagship device. The combination of innovative features, attractive pre-order deals, and convenient trade-in options positions the Galaxy S25 Ultra as a compelling choice for those seeking a cutting-edge smartphone experience.
