Samsung Unveils Ultra-Thin Galaxy S25 Edge as Apple Readies iPhone ‘Air’
Launch and Background
Samsung launched the Galaxy S25 Edge on May 13, 2025, introducing its slimmest smartphone yet at just 5.8mm thick. The device, unveiled at a virtual Unpacked event, weighs only 163 grams, making it one of the lightest premium phones available.
Samsung Unveils Ultra-Thin Galaxy S25 Edge as Apple Readies iPhone ‘Air’
This launch comes amid rumors that Apple is preparing a super-thin iPhone 17 Air, expected in September 2025. Samsung’s move appears strategic, aiming to capture the market for sleek, lightweight flagship phones before Apple’s entry.
The S25 Edge joins the Galaxy S25 series, which includes the S25, S25+, and S25 Ultra, and targets users who prioritize style without sacrificing performance. The phone’s debut follows months of teasers, with Samsung first showcasing its slim design in January 2025, signaling a shift toward ultra-thin flagships.
Concept and Development
The Galaxy S25 Edge concept emerged as Samsung sought to redefine premium smartphones. The company aimed to blend cutting-edge technology with a razor-thin design, responding to growing consumer demand for portable yet powerful devices.
Samsung collaborated with Corning to develop Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2, a durable, lightweight material tailored for the phone’s slim profile.
The titanium frame enhances strength while keeping weight down. Unlike the bulkier S25 Ultra, the Edge prioritizes elegance, drawing inspiration from past Galaxy models like the Galaxy Alpha, which also emphasized thinness.
Leaks and rumors since late 2024 fueled anticipation, with Samsung positioning the Edge as a direct rival to Apple’s rumored iPhone 17 Air. The goal was clear: create a flagship that feels like a “design statement” while maintaining high-end specs.
New Features and Innovations
The S25 Edge boasts a 6.7-inch Quad HD+ AMOLED display with a 1Hz–120Hz adaptive refresh rate for smooth visuals and power efficiency.
It’s powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chipset, paired with 12GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage. The dual rear camera system features a 200MP main sensor, delivering 40% better low-light performance than the base S25, and a 12MP ultra-wide lens with autofocus and macro support.
A 12MP front camera handles selfies. Running Android 15 with One UI 7, the phone includes Galaxy AI tools like Call Transcript, Drawing Assist, and Google’s Circle to Search.
Its 3,900mAh battery supports 25W wired and 15W wireless charging, though it’s smaller than competitors’ batteries. The IP68 rating ensures dust and water resistance. However, the phone lacks the S25 Ultra’s anti-reflective coating and dedicated zoom lens, relying on the main sensor for 2x optical zoom.
Pricing and Regional Availability
The Galaxy S25 Edge starts at $1,099 for the 256GB model in the U.S., with pre-orders open from May 13 and sales beginning May 30, 2025. In the UK, it’s priced at £1,099, while in Australia, it costs around AU$2,275. In India, the phone is available for approximately ₹99,999, with trade-in offers and discounts up to $630 in some regions. Compared to the S25 Ultra ($1,299), the Edge is more affordable but pricier than the base S25 ($859). Samsung’s pricing reflects its premium positioning, targeting consumers seeking a balance of luxury and portability. The phone is available globally, including in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, with color options like Titanium Silver, Icy Blue, and Jet Black.
Competitors and Market Outlook
The S25 Edge faces limited direct competition in the ultra-thin flagship category for now, but Apple’s iPhone 17 Air looms as its primary rival. Expected to be 6.2mm thick, the iPhone 17 Air may challenge Samsung with a larger battery and Apple’s ecosystem advantages, powered by the A19 chip.
Other competitors include premium Android devices like the Google Pixel 9 Pro and Xiaomi 15, though they lack the same focus on thinness. Samsung’s early launch gives it a head start, but analysts question whether the Edge’s smaller battery and lack of a telephoto lens could deter buyers.
The phone’s success will hinge on consumer preference for sleek design over raw power, especially as Apple prepares to enter the slim-phone race. For now, Samsung’s S25 Edge sets the stage for a high-stakes battle in the premium smartphone market.
