Samsung S25 Ultra dirty screen issue

[Weatherbain]

Hi

I’ve been a long-time Samsung user with many different Galaxy models over the years. My previous phone was the S22 Ultra, and I never had issues with a dirty screen – it always stayed fairly clean apart from the usual fingerprints.

However, with my new S25 Ultra, I’ve noticed something strange. The screen is always dirty. There are constant spots of dried spit, dust, and smudges even after minimal use. I find myself cleaning it repeatedly throughout the day. At first, I thought it was just me, but I’m very careful with my phones, and this has never been a problem before.

Here’s what makes me think it’s an actual issue with the screen itself:
I bought a screen protector to see if it would help, and ever since applying it, I no longer get those stains or spots. The smudging has significantly reduced too. This suggests there’s something about the S25 Ultra’s screen surface that attracts more dust, saliva particles, or oils from fingers compared to previous models.

Has anyone else experienced this with the S25 Ultra? Is it a coating issue, or could it be a manufacturing defect? Also, if you’ve found a solution, I’d love to hear it.

Thanks in advance!

 

[SpookDroid]

A lot of people have noticed that the oleophobic coating since the S24 has decreased in durability. You can minimize this by avoiding to clean the screen with abrasive materials (i.e. antibacterial wipes, alcohol pads, etc.) but yeah, eventually it will show more smudges than previous models.

 

[Weatherbain]

A lot of people have noticed that the oleophobic coating since the S24 has decreased in durability. You can minimize this by avoiding to clean the screen with abrasive materials (i.e. antibacterial wipes, alcohol pads, etc.) but yeah, eventually it will show more smudges than previous models.

Interesting to know. So is this a problem that can be fixed given the phone is still under warranty? Or is it not worth it? Having a screen protector solves the issue, bit not everyone wants a screen protector and we paid a huge sum of money for what should be a perfect product.

 

[mustang7757]

I moved this to the s25 Forums

I can't confirm this as I always have a screen protector on

 

[gtt1]

I'm guessing that it might also be because of the anti reflection coating.

I put a screen protector on and put up with the reflections when outside in the sun. Prefer the protection they give the glass.

 

[SpookDroid]

Interesting to know. So is this a problem that can be fixed given the phone is still under warranty? Or is it not worth it? Having a screen protector solves the issue, bit not everyone wants a screen protector and we paid a huge sum of money for what should be a perfect product.

Nothing you can do to fix (other than replacing the screen with an original one or applying a new coat of oleophobic material (which is typically not user-friendly on a smartphone display). Also not considered a defect, so won't be covered under warranty.

 

[bearone2]

in my fat little hand before 25+ delivery!! installed before setup!! 3 to a pack from amazon!! fits better than screen protectors going back to galaxy s3!!

 

[IslandGuy]

I experienced this issue with the S25U Ultra after a few days of using it. I have always taken care of my phones and have never used a screen protector on any of my previous devices. I decided to try one for this phone, especially since the screen is flat, hence reduced chances of edge lifting, as was a common complaint in the past. That solved the problem. No more constant cleaning. Went with the Benks AR screen protector based on recommendations in this forum. Couldn't be happier.

GlassWarrior AR Screen Protector for Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

Protect your Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra with Benks anti-reflective tempered glass screen protector. Scratch-resistant, ultra-clear, and easy to install, no fear of reflection.

www.benks.com

 

[SpookDroid]

Here's the thing with screen protectors for the S25... you LOSE that anti-reflective coating. I'd rather have to wipe the screen a couple times a day than going back to 'everything feels like a mirror in comparison now' reflections

 

[Walter Wagenleithner]

Here's the thing with screen protectors for the S25... you LOSE that anti-reflective coating. I'd rather have to wipe the screen a couple times a day than going back to 'everything feels like a mirror in comparison now' reflections

You will not have this effect with the original Samsung anti reflective screen protector. It is just a thin film but it will prevent the screen from scratches.