Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra’s S Pen Loses Key Features

Samsung is preparing to unveil its much-anticipated Galaxy S25 series in two weeks, with the Galaxy S25 Ultra at the forefront of the lineup. The Ultra model will feature rounded corners and a built-in S Pen, continuing Samsung’s commitment to the stylus experience. However, according to a recent leak by Ishan Agarwal, some significant changes to the S Pen could disappoint long-time fans.

Bluetooth Functionality Dropped

Samsung plans to remove Bluetooth from the S Pen, significantly limiting its capabilities. Without Bluetooth, users will lose access to Air Actions, which allows gesture-based commands and remote control functions. These include taking photos with a single press, switching cameras with a double press, and changing photo modes using swipe gestures.

Air Actions also allows users to perform tasks like Back, Home, Recent Apps, and Smart Select by waving the stylus. This functionality has been available across the Galaxy Note series, Galaxy Z Fold models, and flagship tablets like the Tab S7 through Tab S10.

Design-Driven Compromises

Reports suggest that Samsung’s decision might stem from the new design of the Galaxy S25 Ultra. With its rounded corners and a slightly smaller stylus to fit within the device, the company may have chosen to sacrifice Bluetooth functionality to maintain the Ultra’s sleek form factor. While this design decision may streamline the device’s aesthetics, it could alienate users who rely on the S Pen’s remote capabilities.

This could discourage some Galaxy Ultra users from upgrading. Samsung undoubtedly has insight into the frequency of these functionalities, and it is clear that they see this change as a necessary trade-off for the S25 Ultra’s design evolution. However, it remains to be seen whether users will accept this change.

As Samsung prepares for the Galaxy S25 series launch, the focus will undoubtedly shift to other enhancements and innovations the device offers.