Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra S Pen Changes That Might Disappoint Users

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra still distinguishes itself from the standard Galaxy S25 models with its built-in S Pen. However, this year's iteration of the stylus has undergone some changes that may not sit well with long-time users. Notably, Samsung has removed Bluetooth connectivity and Air Command support, meaning some of the advanced functionalities that users have come to love are now missing. Furthermore, it has been reported that the magnetic accessory is interfering with its S Pen and causing frustration in the hands of users. Let's see what that means for the Galaxy S25 Ultra experience.

Samsung Drops Bluetooth and Air Command from the S Pen

A more significant change that has been incorporated into the S Pen of Galaxy S25 Ultra is the disconnection of the Bluetooth feature. This eliminates certain features, for example, taking remote camera shutter control, media playback gestures, or Air Actions, which have enabled users to navigate without laying hands on it. Another important feature, which is missing, is Air Command.

For those who do not know, Air Command was a quick way to access a variety of S Pen functions, such as Screen Write, Smart Select, and Translate, with a simple hover-and-click action. Without Bluetooth and Air Command, the S Pen's functionality is now closer to a basic stylus rather than the high-tech accessory it used to be.

S Pen Interference Issues with Magnetic Accessories

Users of Galaxy S25 Ultra said that using the magnetic cases tends to create disturbance in signal sending from S Pen, creating irregular behavior in such devices. In his contribution about the mishaps experienced on Fiberborne Case use, Andrew Myrick writes that he did see a popup notice on his phone after adding it, and said:

“Magnetic accessories can interfere with your S Pen: The magnets in accessories can interfere with the signals your S Pen sends to your phone. They may cause your S Pen to not write correctly or cause Air commands to occur unintentionally.”

Interestingly, this problem is not new. The Galaxy S24 Ultra, for example, also experienced interference issues with its S Pen, and that one was equipped with Bluetooth and Air Command support. That raises a very important question: Did Samsung remove Bluetooth from the S Pen intentionally because of the interference problems, or was it an impulsive choice in which the firm left behind an outdated warning message on the S25 Ultra?

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick)

(Image credit: Andrew Myrick)

Does Case Thickness Impact Interference?

Myrick also noted that the interference warning did not appear when using a MagSafe adapter on Samsung's silicone case. This means that case thickness and the distance between the magnets and the S Pen's internal components determine whether interference occurs.

Users dependent on MagSafe accessories might have to try various cases in an effort to mitigate disruption of the stylus. Thicker cases might potentially protect the S Pen from magnetic interference, while thinner cases with integrated magnets might just make the problem worse.

Samsung’s Response and Possible Fixes

To date, Samsung hasn't released any comments regarding the removal of Bluetooth or the interference case in the S Pen and the magnetic accessories. However, since the same issues were reported on the S24 Ultra, it would not be surprising if Samsung is aware of all this but hasn't figured out a permanent cure yet.

If Samsung does acknowledge the problem, potential solutions could include:

• Software Updates: A firmware patch could optimize how the phone handles magnetic interference, reducing its impact on the S Pen’s functionality.

• Stronger Internal Shielding: Future iterations of the S Pen could incorporate better shielding to minimize signal disruption from external magnets.

• Clearer Accessory Guidelines: Samsung could provide more explicit recommendations on compatible cases and accessories to help users avoid interference issues.

Should You Still Buy the Galaxy S25 Ultra?

Despite these concerns, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is still a powerful device with flagship-level hardware and software. It comes with an improved display, enhanced camera capabilities, and top-tier performance, making it a very compelling choice for power users. However, for those who heavily rely on the advanced features of the S Pen, the lack of Bluetooth and Air Command might be a bit disappointing.

If you’re planning to buy the Galaxy S25 Ultra, consider these factors:

• Do you use the S Pen primarily for note-taking and drawing? If so, the missing Bluetooth features may not affect you much.

• Do you rely on Air Actions for remote control functions? If yes, you might want to stick with the S24 Ultra or explore alternative stylus options.

• Are you using magnetic accessories? Be mindful of potential interference and choose your accessories wisely.

Galaxy S25 Ultra's S Pen has somehow been set back by removing Bluetooth and Air Command supports. Such things also pose interference problems in magnetic attachments, further making the use problematic for users who rely on the stylus for much-required functions. Despite this fact, the S Pen still presents a reliable writing and drawing experience, and the move done by Samsung to remove key features has elicited a debate among fans.

It depends on how much you will actually use the more advanced functions of the S Pen. If these issues can be rectified, and perhaps even improved, in future updates or models, the S Pen will be back to being a necessity for Ultra Galaxy users. Until then, though, potential buyers would be wise to take this into consideration before rushing to get their next ultra model, the S25 Ultra.