Galaxy S25 Ultra’s Gorilla Armor 2 fails to surpass scratch-resistance of predecessor

The anticipation surrounding Samsung‘s Galaxy S25 Ultra reached a peak with the introduction of its new front surface, the Gorilla Armor 2. Marketed as a breakthrough in smartphone protection, Corning touted it as “the industry’s first scratch-resistant, anti-reflective glass ceramic cover material for mobile devices.” Initial tests have showcased impressive drop resistance, able to withstand impacts from a height of 2.2 meters onto a concrete-like surface. However, this impressive performance in drop tests masks a concerning issue: the scratch resistance of Gorilla Armor 2 has not improved and, according to popular YouTuber JerryRigEverything, it actually fares worse against scratches than the first-generation Gorilla Armor.

The findings beg a critical question: what sacrifices have been made in the balance between drop durability and scratch resistance? It appears that in the quest for enhancing drop resilience, the glass has become excessively brittle, leading to an increased susceptibility to scratches. This pattern isn’t uncommon in the industry, as manufacturers frequently alternate between prioritizing drop or scratch resistance across different generations.

Despite these drawbacks, it’s important to note that Gorilla Armor 2 still scratches at level 6 on the Mohs scale – the industry standard for smartphones. Unsurprisingly, this means users who are careful, or who utilize a screen protector, will find their experience largely unscathed.

One of the significant improvements in design comes from the display, which has transitioned from a slightly curved surface to a completely flat one. This change aims to rectify the previous model’s issue of edges being more prone to scratches. Furthermore, Gorilla Glass Armor 2 is equipped with a refined anti-reflective coating, enhancing visibility even in bright conditions.

Continuing with the display’s specifications, the panel remains unchanged from last year’s model, offering a peak brightness of 2600 nits. For users concerned about a grainy effect experienced in lower light settings, it appears this problem was linked to software rather than hardware, and has now been addressed in the 2025 flagship‘s updates. This improvement signifies Samsung’s commitment to enhancing user experience while elevating the overall quality of the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

The shifts in features and technology in the Galaxy S25 Ultra bring to light an enduring debate within the smartphone community: should manufacturers focus more on crack resilience or scratch resistance? Each iteration brings both exciting and potentially frustrating trade-offs for users. Samsung’s ongoing emphasis on durable materials reflects a market demanding robust devices. However, customers may find themselves grappling with the complexities these advancements entail.

As the market prepares for a wave of pre-orders, excitement buzzes around the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Limited-time promotions include substantial discounts, further fueling consumer interest. Yet, potential buyers should approach with tempered expectations regarding long-term durability, especially concerning the new Gorilla Armor 2. The upcoming model may represent significant advancements in some areas while resting on older technologies in others.

In a rapidly evolving smartphone landscape, where each new release is often heralded as revolutionary, the trade-offs between form, function, and durability will command the spotlight. Users will need to weigh their priorities as they navigate their options, ensuring these cutting-edge devices meet their personal standards of durability and performance perfectly. Moreover, Samsung’s choices may signal broader trends among competitors as they too balance innovation against the critical aspects of product longevity and user experience. The Galaxy S25 Ultra stands as a remarkable contender in the advanced tech market, but prospective consumers might find themselves questioning whether it truly lives up to its lofty promises or if sacrifices have been made for the sake of perceived enhancements.