With Samsung’s Galaxy S25 series not due until February, budget smartphone brand itel has swooped in early to introduce their S25 and S25 Ultra models. Released in the Philippines as successors to the popular S24 series, itel’s new lineup embraces an impressive design aesthetic that pays homage to flagship styles while keeping the price within reach for everyday consumers. Here’s everything you need to know about these budget-friendly contenders.
itel’s S25 and S25 Ultra deliver a sleek, Samsung-inspired look with a squarish form factor and eye-catching design. The standout feature? A distinctive ring light flash accompanied by a secondary flash, giving the phone a unique visual appeal that’s practical for low-light photography.
The S25 features a flat AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals that elevate everyday browsing and media. Meanwhile, the S25 Ultra steps it up a notch with a curved AMOLED display that adds a premium touch and immersive feel. Adding durability to its design, the S25 Ultra also comes equipped with Corning Gorilla Glass 7i, providing extra protection against everyday wear and tear.
While itel’s devices aren’t about powerhouse performance, they are well-suited for casual users looking for reliable performance in their daily tasks. The S25 is rumored to feature the Unisoc T612 chipset, while the S25 Ultra takes it up a level with the Unisoc T620. These processors, though modest, are capable of handling standard multitasking and basic mobile gaming with ease.
In the camera department, both models feature a 50MP main camera paired with a 32MP front camera, promising clear, vibrant photos and selfies. Users can also enjoy DTS Audio, which aims to offer an enhanced audio experience for music and media playback. However, for those looking for super-fast charging, there’s a slight disappointment, as neither model includes this feature.
The 5000mAh battery capacity in both models provides substantial battery life, comfortably lasting through a full day of moderate use. While there’s no mention of fast charging, itel ensures durability by offering IP54 splash resistance on the S25 and a higher IP64 rating on the S25 Ultra, making it more resistant to dust and water – a valuable feature for a budget phone.
One of the biggest advantages of the itel S25 and S25 Ultra lies in their competitive pricing. The itel S25 is priced at PHP 5,799 (about USD 110) for the 8GB RAM + 128GB storage variant, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious users. The S25 Ultra starts at PHP 10,999 (around USD 210) for 8GB RAM + 256GB storage, which is still quite accessible, especially given the upgraded display and added durability features.
For color options, the S25 is available in Bromo Black, Mambo Mint, and Sahara Gleam, while the S25 Ultra comes in Meteor Titanium, Bromo Black, and Komodo Ocean. Pre-orders for the itel S25 have already begun, with the S25 Ultra set to follow on November 10th.
Get Offer - Buy on Amazon
By launching the S25 and S25 Ultra before Samsung’s much-anticipated Galaxy S25, itel has positioned itself as an attractive option for those seeking a stylish, affordable alternative. While these devices may not compete with flagship-level specs, they offer significant value in the budget market, combining style, a decent camera setup, and a few thoughtful features that add up to a satisfying smartphone experience. For those who want a taste of the premium without the premium price, itel’s S25 lineup is definitely worth a look.
Comments