Samsung Launches Galaxy S25 FE to Compete with iPhone 17

Samsung has officially unveiled the Galaxy S25 FE, positioning it as a strong competitor to Apple’s recently launched iPhone 17. The announcement came earlier this month, just ahead of Apple’s annual showcase, where the tech giant presented its latest smartphone offerings, including the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air.

The new Galaxy S25 FE, which stands for Fan Edition, has been designed to attract budget-conscious consumers. It is priced starting at £649, making it £150 cheaper than the iPhone 17. For those looking for a more manageable payment option, Sky Mobile is introducing a launch deal at £23 per month, which includes a range of complimentary items valued at £368, such as a free Galaxy Watch7 and Galaxy Buds3 FE.

Specifications and Features of the Galaxy S25 FE

In terms of specifications, the Galaxy S25 FE features a vibrant 6.7-inch dynamic AMOLED 2X display, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, and a 50MP wide camera. It is equipped with 256GB of storage, a durable 4,900 mAh battery, and holds an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. The device also includes various Galaxy AI functions, enhancing user experience with tools like Generative Edit and Circle to Search, alongside Google’s AI-powered Gemini Live.

The smartphone’s design is reinforced with an enhanced Armor Aluminum frame, and it is available in four colors: Icy Blue, Jet Black, Navy, and White.

For consumers interested in mobile contracts, the £23 Sky Mobile plan offers a 100MB data allowance. Additional data options include 3GB for £6 or 50GB for £12. While the contract spans 36 months, customers can upgrade their phone after 24 months without incurring extra fees.

Market Reception and Expert Opinions

Despite its lower price point compared to the iPhone 17, the Galaxy S25 FE may not match the power of Apple’s latest offerings. Nevertheless, it still boasts impressive features that could appeal to Android users. According to Jay Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of Customer Experience Office at Samsung Electronics, “Galaxy S25 FE plays an important role as a gateway into the broader Galaxy AI ecosystem, making these experiences more attainable for a wider range of users.”

Tech editor Dave Snelling from the Daily Express also evaluated the S25 FE and noted its premium feel and the inclusion of AI capabilities found in the standard S25 model. He commented on the device’s attractive display and its robust design, stating, “The new S25 FE is another decent device from Samsung. There are all the AI smarts found on the standard S25, including full Google Gemini access.”

While some features, such as the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, are absent from the S25 FE, Snelling highlighted its fast charging and durability. He suggested that the £599 price point would have been more appealing, acknowledging the promotional offers but noting the device’s single large screen size as a potential drawback.

As Samsung continues to innovate within the smartphone market, the Galaxy S25 FE stands as a notable option for consumers seeking a balance between affordability and cutting-edge technology. With its competitive pricing and impressive features, it may find a welcoming audience among those looking to explore the latest in mobile technology.