Samsung is preparing for the demise of the S Pen, a choice that may not be met with universal approval
Samsung, the South Korean tech giant, is making changes to its device lineup, with the S Pen stylus becoming less prominent in some models. The shift is primarily aimed at achieving thinner and lighter devices, as reported by various sources [1][3][4].
The Galaxy Z Fold 7, the latest foldable device from Samsung, no longer supports the S Pen. The removal of the digitizer layer required for stylus input allows for a slimmer design [3][4]. Similarly, the upcoming Galaxy Tab S11 series may not support Bluetooth stylus tools, following the changes made to the Galaxy S25 Ultra [1][3].
The move away from stylus integration in flagship models is evident in the Galaxy S25 Ultra, where Bluetooth features were removed from the S Pen [1][3][4]. However, Samsung has not ruled out the possibility of reintroducing the S Pen to foldable devices in the future, should there be significant demand and a technical breakthrough [2].
For S Pen enthusiasts, the lack of integrated support in flagship phones may be a disappointment, particularly for those who rely on the stylus for productivity and creativity [1][3]. The potential confusion or fragmentation caused by the removal of the S Pen or the introduction of different versions of the Ultra model could also complicate choices for consumers [1].
The decision to phase out the S Pen is a strategic trade-off between design innovation and retaining beloved features for specific user groups [1]. While the S Pen may be regressing and moving towards its eventual demise, Samsung has not completely written off the stylus yet, leaving room for potential future reintegration.
S Pen fans are advised to stay vocal and push for the inclusion of the S Pen in as many devices as possible. The S Pen is currently available only on high-end Samsung phones, and there is no indication that this will change in the near future [5]. Early sales numbers for the Galaxy Z Fold 7 suggest that most customers do not miss their stylus [6].
In the face of Samsung's focus on artificial intelligence and slimming down devices, S Pen fanatics must continue to demand new tools to keep the stylus a relevant part of Samsung's lineup.
References:
[1] The Verge
[2] SamMobile
[3] Android Central
[4] TechRadar
[5] GSM Arena
[6] Tom's Guide
- Despite the removal of S Pen support in some recent flagship models like the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the upcoming Galaxy Tab S11 series, Samsung has not closed the door on re-introducing the stylus, depending on consumer demand and technological advancements.
- The strategic shift in Samsung's device lineup towards thinner and lighter devices, as seen in the Galaxy S25 Ultra and Galaxy Z Fold 7, is causing some inconvenience to S Pen enthusiasts who rely on the stylus for productivity and creativity.
