Overall Rating: 6.9/10
Announced on May 12, 2025, and available from May 30, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge is the slimmest Galaxy S series smartphone to date, measuring just 5.8mm in thickness and weighing 163 grams. It combines a sleek design with advanced AI features and high-end specifications. However, its ultra-thin form factor introduces certain trade-offs in terms of battery capacity and repairability.
Product Page:
https://www.samsung.com/ie/smartphones/galaxy-s25-edge/
Technical Specifications
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite
- Memory: 12GB RAM
- Storage: 256GB or 512GB UFS 4.0
- Display: 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 3120 x 1440 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate
- Graphics: Adreno 830
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, 5G
- Ports: USB-C
- Battery: 3,900mAh with 25W wired and 15W wireless charging
- Weight: 163g
- Operating System: Android 15 with One UI 7
- Availability: Pre-orders from May 12; general availability from May 30, 2025
AI Features
The Galaxy S25 Edge integrates Samsung’s Galaxy AI suite, including features like Now Bar, Drawing Assist, and Gemini Live for real-time contextual assistance. These tools enhance user experience by providing intelligent suggestions and automating tasks, leveraging on-device processing for improved privacy and efficiency.
Sustainability (Materials & Environmental Impact) – 6.5/10
Samsung has utilized a titanium frame and Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 for durability. However, there is limited information on the use of recycled materials or the device’s carbon footprint. The packaging reportedly includes recycled paper, but specifics are lacking. The absence of detailed environmental impact disclosures affects the overall sustainability rating.
Repairability & Serviceability – 5.0/10
The ultra-thin design, while aesthetically pleasing, poses challenges for repairability. The device’s compact construction may complicate disassembly and component replacement. Samsung has not provided official repair guides or modular design elements, which could hinder third-party repair efforts and increase electronic waste. Additionally, Samsung’s termination of its partnership with iFixit in 2024 also raises concern. The iFixit program had promised broader access to parts and guides, but was curtailed due to Samsung’s reluctance to enable independent repairs. Combined with the device’s sealed construction, this move further restricts the repair ecosystem and confirms a manufacturer-driven repair model with limited circularity.
Performance & Enterprise Integration – 8.5/10
Equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and 12GB RAM, the S25 Edge delivers robust performance suitable for enterprise applications. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 7 and 5G ensures fast connectivity. However, the lack of expandable storage and certain enterprise-grade security features may limit its appeal for some business users.
Lifecycle Management & Longevity – 7.0/10
Samsung promises extended software support, with the device launching on Android 15 and expected to receive several years of updates. The high-quality materials used in construction suggest durability, but the non-removable battery and potential repair difficulties could impact the device’s long-term usability.
Cost-effectiveness & Total Cost of Ownership – 7.0/10
Starting at $1,099.99 for the 256GB model, the S25 Edge is priced at the premium end of the market. While it offers cutting-edge features and design, the high cost, combined with potential repair and longevity concerns, may affect its total cost of ownership over time.
End-of-Life Processing & Recyclability – 6.0/10
Samsung provides recycling programs, but the device’s design may complicate disassembly and material recovery. The use of mixed materials and adhesives can hinder efficient recycling processes, potentially leading to increased environmental impact at the end of the device’s life cycle.
Power Consumption – 7.5/10
The 3,900mAh battery, while smaller than some competitors, is optimized through software and hardware integration to provide satisfactory battery life. The device supports both wired and wireless fast charging, enhancing user convenience. However, the smaller battery capacity may necessitate more frequent charging under heavy use.
Data Security – 7.5/10
The S25 Edge includes standard Android security features and Samsung’s Knox security platform. Biometric authentication is available through facial recognition and an under-display fingerprint sensor. While these features offer robust security for most users, the absence of certain advanced security options may be a consideration for enterprise environments.
What You Should Know If You Are a Recycler
The device’s slim design and use of adhesives may complicate disassembly and material separation. The lack of modular components can increase the time and effort required for recycling, potentially reducing the recovery rate of valuable materials.
What You Should Know If You Are a Refurbisher
Repairing or replacing components in the S25 Edge may be challenging due to its compact construction and lack of modularity. The non-removable battery and potential difficulties in accessing internal components could limit refurbishment opportunities.
What You Should Know About This Product’s Sustainability If You Are a CIO or IT Manager
While the S25 Edge offers advanced features and a sleek design, considerations around repairability, recyclability, and total cost of ownership should be weighed. The device may be suitable for roles where cutting-edge technology is prioritized, but less so for positions requiring long-term durability and ease of maintenance.
What You Should Know If You Are an ITAD Service Provider
The device’s construction may pose challenges for data sanitization and component recovery. The lack of accessible internal components and potential difficulties in disassembly could impact the efficiency and profitability of IT asset disposition processes.
Recommendations for the Vendor
- Provide detailed information on the use of recycled materials and the device’s carbon footprint.
- Enhance repairability by adopting modular design principles and providing official repair guides.
- Improve recyclability by minimizing the use of adhesives and facilitating easier disassembly.
Final Thoughts
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge stands out for its ultra-thin design and integration of advanced AI features. While it excels in performance and aesthetics, considerations around sustainability, repairability, and total cost of ownership are important for stakeholders focused on long-term value and environmental impact.
