When it introduces the Galaxy S25 series, Samsung may abandon the Plus variant. The database listing that gave rise to this notion strangely omitted the model number that is usually linked with the Plus model. Soon after, though, a finding disproved this notion by claiming that Samsung had internal codenames for all three devices, including the S25 Plus model number. The S24 Plus has been a huge hit this year, with customers enjoying its QHD+ display and more RAM at a more affordable price. This conjecture follows that success.
As we await Samsung’s 2024 summer event, a new theory suggests the next flagship phone line could drop a key member. Android Headlines discovered a database listing showing that Samsung might only plan for two S25 devices. The listing revealed a device with model number SM-S931B/DS, supposedly the base S25 model, and another with the model number SM-S938B. The same model appeared multiple times with varying end tags such as “U” and “N,” indicating different regional releases—”B” for the global market, “U” for the U.S., and “N” for South Korea.
Despite this theoretical absence of a Galaxy S25 Plus, the post speculated it could be a strategic move by Samsung. It also noted that the specifications of the Plus and base models have become increasingly similar over the years. This shift could indicate that Samsung is more focused on promoting its Ultra version over a boosted base model.
However, GalaxyClub found that Samsung’s development of all three S25 models is ongoing. The Dutch publication discovered evidence of three internal codenames: F1, F2, and F3, which reportedly refer to the S25, S25 Plus, and the S25 Ultra, respectively. Additionally, the Plus model bears the model number SM-S936, filling the gap between the other two devices.
It would be surprising if Samsung dropped its middle device, given the success of the Galaxy S24 Plus. Shortly after its January launch, early sales analytics showed that the S24 Plus was more popular than its 2023 counterpart, achieving a 54% increase in revenue. The Plus model is typically a slightly enhanced version of the base model, but this year’s S24 Plus brought a QHD+ resolution for its large display and boasted 12GB of RAM to support its suite of Galaxy AI features. Minsoo Kang, a senior analyst at Counterpoint Research, stated that the S24 Plus was Samsung’s “big driver” in 2024, hitting the sweet spot on pricing and specs for new users wanting optimized on-device AI.
Other early rumors about the S25 series suggest that Samsung might drop Exynos chips in favor of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon SoC across all regions. Additionally, a report from South Korea highlighted the possibility of a slightly larger S25 display at 6.3 inches and hinted at overall design changes in the upcoming series.
The theory that Samsung could move away from the Plus model seems unlikely given the success and popularity of the S24 Plus. The S24 Plus provided users with a balanced option featuring a high-resolution display and ample RAM, making it a compelling choice in the lineup. Dropping the Plus model could be a strategic risk, especially since it has proven to be a significant revenue driver.
Samsung’s potential focus on the Ultra version suggests the company might be aiming to push its premium offering more aggressively. The Ultra model typically represents the pinnacle of Samsung’s technological advancements, featuring the best display, camera, and performance specs. By emphasizing the Ultra model, Samsung could be trying to capture a market segment willing to pay a premium for the latest and greatest technology.
However, the evidence found by GalaxyClub indicates that Samsung is still developing all three models, which aligns with the company’s previous strategies. The internal codenames and model numbers for the S25, S25 Plus, and S25 Ultra suggest that Samsung is not abandoning the Plus model but rather continuing to refine its lineup to cater to different market segments.
The success of the Galaxy S24 Plus demonstrates that there is a demand for a middle-ground device that offers more than the base model but at a lower price point than the Ultra. This balance is crucial for capturing a broad audience, from budget-conscious consumers to those seeking high-end features without the premium price tag.
As Samsung prepares for its 2024 summer event, the speculation around the S25 series highlights the anticipation and excitement in the tech community. The potential design changes, larger display, and the move to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon SoC in all regions are all elements that could make the S25 series a significant upgrade over its predecessors.
Samsung is likely to stick with a three-tier lineup, based on the evidence. Samsung is able to serve a diverse clientele with this approach, guaranteeing that every S25 model has a distinct value proposition that is adapted to individual requirements and tastes. In the very competitive smartphone industry, it will be interesting to observe how Samsung promotes its most recent flagship series as we await the formal announcement. Going forward, Samsung’s approach may revolve around striking a balance between advancing technologically with the Ultra model and keeping the extremely desirable Plus model.
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