Recently launched in the Philippines, the Itel S25 and Itel S25 Ultra mark the company’s latest entries into the competitive midrange smartphone market. With their debut coinciding with the expected launch of Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S25 series, these new models garner attention for both their design and specifications. Itel aims to carve a niche in the midrange sector with features that appeal to budget-conscious consumers without sacrificing quality.
Both models feature an impressive 6.78-inch AMOLED display, a design element that prompts comparison with more expensive competitors. The Itel S25 offers a standard flat AMOLED screen, while the Ultra variant ups the ante with a curved design that enhances the user experience by providing a more immersive viewing area. Additionally, both devices boast a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and quick responsiveness, a crucial feature for a seamless user experience. An under-display fingerprint scanner adds a modern flair, while various color options—Bromo Black, Mambo Mint, Sahara Gleam for the S25, and Bromo Black, Komodo Ocean, Meteor Titanium for the S25 Ultra—help cater to varied aesthetic preferences.
Camera Capabilities
When it comes to photography, the Itel S25 and S25 Ultra stand out with their camera configurations. Each phone features a robust 50-megapixel primary camera, complemented by a versatile 32-megapixel selfie camera. This combination speaks to the growing trend of mobile photography, appealing to users who prioritize camera quality for social media and personal use. However, while the specifications are notable, real-world performance will be critical in determining their effectiveness compared to competitors in the same price bracket.
Performance and Software
Under the hood, the Itel S25 is powered by an undisclosed Unisoc chipset, while the S25 Ultra runs on the Unisoc T620. With 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM standard across both devices, they promise decent multitasking capabilities. The Ultra variant further impresses with storage options of up to 512GB via UFS 2.2, offering ample space for apps, media, and more. Both models come preloaded with Android 14, though it’s noteworthy that they are expected to receive updates to Android 15, producing value for users looking for longevity in their device’s software support.
Battery life is another crucial factor where both models deliver, each featuring a 5,000mAh battery. However, consumers might be disappointed due to the absence of fast charging capabilities, especially in an era where such features have become commonplace among peers. Connectivity options, including 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, NFC, and a USB Type-C port, provide comprehensive options to meet the needs of everyday users. Notably, the S25 Ultra introduces an infrared transmitter, adding unique functionality by allowing users to control household appliances—a feature rarely seen in this price segment.
Pricing and Availability
Price points for these smartphones are set competitively, with the Itel S25 starting at PHP 5,799 (approximately Rs. 8,400) and the S25 Ultra at PHP 10,999 (about Rs. 15,900). With pre-orders available on platforms like Shopee, the company appears eager to capitalize on the growing online shopping trend in the Philippines.
The Itel S25 and S25 Ultra present a compelling option for consumers looking for midrange smartphones packed with features. Yet, as with any device, consumer experiences will ultimately determine their success in a crowded marketplace. While they are equipped with an attractive array of specifications, the challenge will lie in performance and differentiation from competing brands. For users seeking a balance of affordability and performance, these latest offerings from Itel might just deliver.
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