iPhone 17 vs. Galaxy S25 Ultra: 3 Features Apple Should Borrow from Samsung

iPhone 17 vs. Galaxy S25 Ultra: 3 Features Apple Should Borrow from Samsung

The annual smartphone race has evolved into a complex game of leapfrog between tech giants like Apple and Samsung. One company innovates, the other follows—only for roles to reverse the next year. And the cycle continues.

With Apple’s iPhone 17 launch event just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to examine what Samsung has done right with its newly released Galaxy S25 Ultra, and which of its features would make perfect sense for Apple to adopt. Not every new feature in the S25 Ultra is a must-have for iPhone users, but these three definitely are.

1. 120Hz Displays for Everyone

For several years now, Apple has lagged behind when it comes to high refresh rate displays on its base iPhone models.

Take last year’s iPhone 16, which still shipped with a 60Hz screen—while even budget-friendly phones like Google’s Pixel 9a feature 120Hz panels.

Is 60Hz enough for everyday use? Sure.

Will most people notice the difference? Maybe not.

But for those who do, it’s significant.

120Hz screens offer smoother scrolling and a better visual experience—even for basic tasks like browsing social media. It’s odd that Apple has kept this feature exclusive to the “Pro” models.

🔸 The good news: rumors strongly suggest that all iPhone 17 models will support 120Hz this year. About time.

2. Better Telephoto Zoom

Zoom capabilities are another area where Samsung simply outclasses Apple—especially when comparing the base models of both brands.

• 🔹 Galaxy S25 Ultra includes a dual-telephoto setup:

  • 10MP with 3x optical zoom

  • 50MP with 5x optical zoom

• 🔹 Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 offers just a single 2x optical zoom lens.

We’re not expecting Apple to add a third camera to the base iPhone 17 (no rumors indicate this), but hey—a tech enthusiast can dream.

3. A Real AI Advantage

I’m not one to hype up AI unnecessarily, but when it comes to intelligent features, Samsung has clearly pulled ahead.

• The S25 Ultra is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, boasting 40% better AI performance than the previous generation.

• It enables features like:

  • Real-time translation

  • Auto photo enhancement

  • On-device smart search

In contrast, Siri is still… well, Siri—barely improved, still limited, and nowhere near as useful in an AI-first world.

🔸 Apple is reportedly working on a massive AI overhaul under the name Apple Intelligence.

🔻 But here’s the catch: it won’t debut with iPhone 17, and might not be ready until spring 2026.

📊 Spec Comparison Table

Zoom Superiority: Samsung Leads

Samsung’s dual telephoto system offers photographers true flexibility.

With 3x and 5x optical zoom lenses, the S25 Ultra allows for:

• High-quality long-distance shots

• Minimal loss of detail

• Versatility in framing and distance

On the other hand, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to feature a single telephoto lens with a zoom range between 5x–8x. While that’s a step up from previous generations, Samsung still offers more granular control.

AI & Processing Power

• Samsung’s Edge: The Snapdragon 8 Elite chip brings meaningful AI enhancements to daily use—from photos to live language processing.

• Apple’s Catch-Up: The Apple Intelligence initiative is underway, but those features are unlikely to be available until 2026.

So iPhone users will need to wait a bit longer to experience the kinds of AI features Samsung users already enjoy.

Brightness & Display Quality

• The iPhone 17 Pro Max is expected to outshine Samsung with 3000 nits peak brightness (vs. 2600 nits).

• However, the S25 Ultra comes with an anti-reflective coating, improving readability in sunlight.

Both phones offer excellent viewing experiences—your preference might come down to where and how you use your device most often.

Final Verdict

This side-by-side comparison reveals a clear truth:

• Samsung leads in zoom versatility and AI innovation

• Apple leads in display brightness and ecosystem polish

Ultimately, the better phone for you will depend on what you prioritize—photography, performance, intelligence, or integration.

The battle continues. 🥊📱