The lack of a dedicated zoom camera on the Galaxy S25 Edge significantly impacts the overall photography experience, particularly in terms of versatility and image quality at longer focal lengths. Here are some key aspects to consider:
1. Zoom Capabilities: Without a dedicated telephoto lens, the Galaxy S25 Edge relies on its 200MP primary camera to achieve zoom effects. This is typically done using digital zoom or AI-enhanced software processing. While AI can help improve zoom quality up to a certain extent, such as 5x magnification, it often cannot match the optical quality provided by a dedicated telephoto lens. This means that images captured at higher zoom levels may suffer from reduced detail and increased noise compared to those taken with a dedicated zoom camera[1][2].
2. Image Quality: The absence of a telephoto lens means that users will have to rely on the main camera's digital zoom capabilities for any zoom shots. This can lead to a loss of image sharpness and clarity, especially when compared to the optical zoom offered by models like the Galaxy S25 Ultra, which features both 3x and 5x optical zoom capabilities[3][5]. The Galaxy S25 Ultra's ability to capture detailed images at longer focal lengths is a significant advantage over the S25 Edge in this regard.
3. User Expectations: Many users expect a flagship device to include a comprehensive camera setup, which typically includes a telephoto lens for zoom photography. The lack of this feature might disappoint users who value versatility in their camera system. Fans had hoped for a setup that included a zoom lens, but instead, Samsung opted for a slim design, which likely influenced the decision to exclude the telephoto camera[4][7].
4. Design Considerations: The decision to omit the zoom camera is likely driven by Samsung's desire to create a slim device. Including a telephoto lens would have required a larger camera bump, compromising the phone's sleek design. This trade-off between design aesthetics and camera functionality may appeal to users prioritizing portability but could be a drawback for photography enthusiasts[2][4].
5. Market Positioning: The Galaxy S25 Edge's camera setup may not be competitive with other flagships that offer more comprehensive camera systems. This could affect its market positioning and appeal, especially among users who prioritize camera capabilities. However, Samsung might be targeting a specific niche with this device, focusing on users who value slimness and high-resolution primary camera performance over zoom capabilities[1][4].
In summary, the lack of a zoom camera on the Galaxy S25 Edge limits its photography capabilities, particularly for users who frequently use zoom features. While the device's slim design and high-resolution main camera are notable, they may not fully compensate for the absence of a dedicated telephoto lens in terms of overall camera versatility and image quality at longer focal lengths.
Citations:
[1] https://sammyguru.com/samsung-galaxy-s25-edge-everything-you-need-to-know/
[2] https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_s25_edge_camera_specs_surface_to_be_slimmer_than_anticipated-news-66459.php
[3] https://sammyguru.com/galaxy-s25-ultra-review-top-performer-with-unmatched-ai-power/
[4] https://sammyguru.com/galaxy-s25-edge-doesnt-have-a-dream-camera-setup-after-all/
[5] https://www.samsung.com/us/smartphones/galaxy-s25-ultra/
[6] https://eu.community.samsung.com/t5/galaxy-s25-series/s25-camera-is-rubbish/td-p/11649104
[7] https://www.sammyfans.com/2025/01/29/rumor-says-galaxy-s25-edge-to-lack-telephoto-zoom-camera/
[8] https://www.samsung.com/uk/mobile-phone-buying-guide/samsung-galaxy-s25-camera-specs-explained/
[9] https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_s25_edge_camera_specs_surface-news-66302.php
[10] https://www.dxomark.com/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-camera-test/