The upcoming Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is set to launch in just a few months. And it brings a big design change that feels like the end of an era for Samsung’s Galaxy series.
This new design will give the S25 Ultra a look that is closer to the iPhone, making a notable departure from previous Galaxy models.
The Story Behind the ‘Curve’
Samsung was a pioneer in introducing curved-edge screens, bringing them to market as an innovative, eye-catching feature.
From 2015 to 2018, Samsung’s Galaxy S and Note series showcased these curved displays. Which quickly became popular among users. But the “curve” didn’t stop with the screen only. These phones also had rounded frames that flowed from front to back, enhancing both grip and aesthetics.
A Gradual Shift
This shift towards a flatter design didn’t happen all at once. Some earlier models, such as the Galaxy S9 and S10+, hints at a new direction.
The Galaxy S9 and Note 9 had some of the largest curved edges in Samsung’s flagship lineup. Of course, this make their design stand out even more. By the time the Galaxy S10+ came out, the curves were noticeably smaller and reduced by almost 30% to 40%.
Over the past several years, Samsung is continuously working on scaling down these curves, both on the display and the frame. Another big moment came when Samsung ended the Note series and integrated its features, including the S-Pen, into the Galaxy S flagship lineup.
The Final Step with the Galaxy S24 Ultra
The release of the Galaxy S24 Ultra marked a major milestone in this flat design transition. While the standard and Plus models had already adopted flatter screens and frames, the Galaxy S24 Ultra was the last to keep any curve in its design.
This signaled a clear message: Samsung was moving toward a fully flat design.
Galaxy S25 Ultra – Completing the Transformation
Recent leaks from OnLeaks and Android Headlines have given us a look at the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s CAD renders. Which reveal a completely new look for the Ultra model.
The S25 Ultra features a titanium build with flat sides. And abandoning the curves that have been a hallmark of Galaxy designs for years. Now, the front, back, and frame form a fully flat phone, similar to the base and Plus models of the Galaxy S24 series.
In addition to the flat frame, the Galaxy S25 Ultra has rounded corners, giving it an appearance that’s closer to the iPhone.
However, this change does more than just alter the phone’s shape. It also highlights the slim bezels and full-view display that Samsung has been working toward. Previous Ultra models had rounded frames that often made the phone look thicker, even though they had slim bezels.
The flat frame on the S25 Ultra will allow these slim bezels to stand out, creating a sleek and edge-to-edge visual experience.
A New Chapter for Samsung’s Galaxy Series
Samsung made the decision to phase out curved displays and frames some time ago and with the S24 Ultra, that path was firmly set. Now, with the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Samsung is ready to complete its transition to a flat-screen flagship lineup.
This significant design update is expected to debut when the S25 Ultra launches early next year.