Samsung Slowly 'Kill' S Pen, The End Of The Iconic Stylus Era?

JAKARTA - Samsung seems to be preparing to say goodbye to one of the most iconic characteristics of its Galaxy device S Pen. In recent months, the series of decisions taken by the South Korean tech giant show that S Pen is no longer a top priority, even as if it were only a complementary feature that could one day be completely abandoned.

For casual users, S Pen seems still alive and well. The Galaxy S25 Ultra, the fourth generation of the Galaxy Note line, continues to include this stylus directly in its body. The upcoming Galaxy Tab S11 is also confirmed to support S Pen, and Samsung even briefly stated that it would reconsider the presence of a digitizer for the next generation Galaxy Z Fold. However, the reality behind the screen is not that bright.

The year 2025 turned out to be not a good year for S Pen fans. Earlier this year, the launch of the Galaxy S25 Ultra brought shocking news: The latest version of the S Pen no longer has Bluetooth connectivity. That is, advanced features such as Air Command and remote controls just disappear.

Samsung argued that less than 1% of users actually use the feature. However, some loyal users, especially those who have spent years in the Galaxy ecosystem because of the existence of the S Pen this decision feels like betrayal.

Even more disappointing, rumors that the Bluetooth version of S Pen will be available as an additional accessory are not proven. Since the Galaxy S25 Ultra, S Pen, which has been known for its features, has turned into an ordinary passive stylus.

If the Galaxy S25 Ultra makes S Pen lose functionality, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 actually eliminates it altogether. In an effort to thinn the design and make the device more portable, Samsung sacrifices internal digitizers to save 0.6mm of body thickness. As a result, there is no support for S Pen in Fold 7.

This move sparked great disappointment among users who have been making Fold their main work device. Indeed, Samsung has not closed the possibility of S Pen's return to Fold 8, but the initial report actually states that next year this matter is still not yet in the plan.

The early image leak of the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra also raises concerns. In addition to smaller notchs and single front cameras, this device does not appear to have a magnetic dock spot to charge S Pen like its predecessor.

While it is not yet certain, many have speculated that Samsung will align its entire S Pen line without Bluetooth support. If true, the advanced features lost at S25 Ultra will also be absent from this latest tablet.

Of all the steps Samsung has taken so far this year, one thing is clear: S Pen is no longer a priority. Although it is unlikely that Samsung will really eliminate this stylus from all devices, its evolution appears to be stalled. There is no major innovation, no new features. On the contrary, functionality is even reduced.

This raises concerns among users who have been considering S Pen as the main reason to stay in the Galaxy ecosystem. As a user named Rebecca Raven commented, saying: "Without the S Pen, I'm free from the Galaxy ecosystem. I can choose another device that's just as good, even at a cheaper price."

Samsung is a company that is easily distracted by the latest technological trends such as thinner, lighter, and focuses on AI. However, if these trends make them sacrifice a loyal user base that has supported since the Galaxy Note era, is that really a wise decision?

For S Pen lovers, this is the time to speak up. Urge Samsung to bring back the Bluetooth S Pen version, even at additional costs. Press them to present a foldable with a digitizer without having to sacrifice a thin design. And most importantly, encourage software innovation that makes S Pen feel essential again, not just a legacy of the past.

Otherwise, these 2025 steps could not be just a "strategy adjustment", but the beginning of the slow end for the S Pen stylus, which was once the pride of the Galaxy.