Samsung’s latest flagship, the Galaxy S25 Ultra, has arrived with a mix of subtle hardware refinements and a significant focus on software improvements, particularly in artificial intelligence. While the device retains the same M13 panel as its predecessor, the Galaxy S24 Ultra, and does not see any changes in brightness levels, Samsung has made key refinements to enhance the overall display experience.
Eliminating the Grainy Effect at Low Brightness
One of the most noticeable improvements in the Galaxy S25 Ultra is the removal of a grainy effect that was present in the display of the S24 Ultra under low-brightness conditions. Many users of the previous model had reported a subtle noise-like distortion when viewing content in dim lighting, which affected the overall clarity and smoothness of the display.
This issue became particularly apparent when scrolling through dark images or navigating in low-light environments. While not always visible in normal usage, it was an irritation for users who noticed it. The effect was similar to digital noise in a low-light photograph, where small inconsistencies in brightness and texture became noticeable. Samsung has now resolved this issue with its latest Ultra model, ensuring that even at the lowest brightness settings, the display remains crisp and smooth.
The presence of this grainy effect had been highlighted in comparisons with other flagship devices. Some users noted similar issues in competing smartphones, including models from brands like Oppo and OnePlus. However, with the S25 Ultra, Samsung appears to have fine-tuned its panel to eliminate this problem, providing a more polished viewing experience for users who frequently use their devices in darker settings.
Improved Color Transitions for More Natural Images
Another key enhancement in the Galaxy S25 Ultra is the improved rendering of color transitions, which was a point of criticism for the S24 Ultra. The previous model struggled with gradient smoothness, particularly when displaying images with subtle color variations. This issue became evident in scenarios like sunset photography, where the screen sometimes showed bands of color rather than a seamless transition from one shade to another.
Color banding is a common issue in displays that lack precise color depth, and it can be distracting when viewing high-quality images. For example, when looking at a photo of a sunset, users expect to see a natural blending of colors in the sky. However, on the S24 Ultra, some users noticed visible bands separating different shades, reducing the overall realism of the image.
Samsung has worked on this flaw in the S25 Ultra, introducing a more refined color processing system that ensures smoother gradients and more accurate color reproduction. This change enhances the phone’s ability to display subtle shifts in tone, making everything from landscapes to artistic photography look more natural. Whether viewing photos, watching videos, or browsing websites with complex color palettes, users will now experience a more visually appealing and true-to-life representation of colors.
Enhanced Display Protection with Corning Gorilla Armor 2
Beyond these improvements in visual performance, the Galaxy S25 Ultra also introduces an upgraded protective layer for its display. The phone now features Corning Gorilla Armor 2, which is being marketed as the first anti-reflective glass ceramic designed specifically for mobile devices.
This marks an advancement over the previous model, which included an anti-reflective coating that, according to some users, started wearing off after several months of regular use. The new ceramic-based technology aims to offer improved durability and long-term clarity, reducing glare and reflections for a better viewing experience, even under bright lighting conditions.
While it remains to be seen how well this new glass holds up over time, Samsung’s decision to introduce a more robust protective solution indicates its commitment to addressing previous durability concerns. If the new material proves resistant to peeling and wear, it could make a noticeable difference in how well the phone maintains its premium look and feel throughout its lifespan.

A Step Forward in Display Quality
Although the Galaxy S25 Ultra does not introduce drastic changes in terms of display technology, the refinements it brings make a meaningful difference in real-world use. By eliminating the grainy effect at low brightness and improving color transitions, Samsung has ensured that users get a smoother and more immersive visual experience.
These changes may not be as headline-grabbing as a complete overhaul of the display, but they reflect Samsung’s commitment to refining its flagship devices based on user feedback. While the S24 Ultra was already praised for its bright and high-resolution screen, the S25 Ultra takes things a step further by fixing some of the shortcomings that affected its predecessor.
For those who prioritize display quality, these improvements make the S25 Ultra a more polished and visually appealing device. Whether watching high-definition content, gaming, or simply browsing the web, users will appreciate the smoother performance and enhanced clarity that come with these refinements.