Samsung Galaxy S22
| Industry | Consumer electronics |
|---|---|
| Founded | January 13, 1969 in Suwon, South Korea |
| Headquarters | Suwon , South Korea |
| Products | Smartphones (including Galaxy S22 series) |
| Website | www |
Samsung Galaxy S22 Series Overview
The Samsung Galaxy S22 lineup represents a collection of premium Android smartphones engineered, produced, and promoted by Samsung Electronics as part of their flagship Galaxy S family. These devices succeed the Samsung Galaxy S21 series, excluding the S21 FE model. The trio was officially introduced during Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked event held on February 9, 2022, with availability commencing on February 25, 2022.
This series comprises three variants: the standard Galaxy S22, the larger Galaxy S22+, and the advanced Galaxy S22 Ultra. Notably, the S22 Ultra acts as the direct successor to the Galaxy Note 20 and effectively continues the Note line by incorporating a built-in S Pen stylus. Compared to their predecessors, these models feature numerous enhancements including upgraded hardware specifications, an improved camera system capable of recording 8K video at 24 frames per second, and for the Ultra model, an advanced super-resolution zoom ranging from 30x to 100x. Additionally, this series introduces a new model numbering scheme "SM-S123X," where each character signifies series, device class, generation, device type, and target market region respectively—replacing the previous "SM-GxxxE" or "GT-XXXXX" formats.
At launch, pricing for the Galaxy S22 series was set at $799.99 for the base model, $999.99 for the S22+, and $1199.99 for the Ultra variant.
The Galaxy S22 lineup was eventually succeeded by the Galaxy S23, which debuted on February 1, 2023.
History
On February 8, 2022, Samsung introduced the Galaxy S22 series as the follow-up to the Galaxy S21 series. The overall design of these devices closely mirrors that of the previous year’s models, except for the S22 Ultra, which departs from the individual camera module layout by eliminating the camera bump and adopting a rectangular chassis. Unlike the original S21, which featured a polycarbonate back, the base S22 model now sports a glass rear panel. Both the S22 and S22+ share similar software, hardware, and build characteristics with their predecessors, exhibiting only subtle differences. In contrast, the S22 Ultra underwent significant redesign and effectively replaces the discontinued Galaxy Note series. It boasts a rectangular frame, an upgraded display with higher resolution, and an enhanced camera system. Most notably, the Ultra model integrates an embedded S Pen—a hallmark of the Note lineup—making it the premium professional option within the series. The standard models succeed the S21 and S21+, while the Ultra serves as the flagship successor to the S21 Ultra.
Lineup
The Galaxy S22 collection includes three distinct devices. The entry-level Galaxy S22 features a 6.1-inch (155 mm) display and is positioned as the most affordable option. The Galaxy S22+ offers similar internal components but comes in a larger size with a 6.6-inch (168 mm) screen, enhanced charging speeds, and increased battery capacity. At the top end, the Galaxy S22 Ultra is equipped with a 6.8-inch (173 mm) display and houses the largest battery among the trio. It also provides a more sophisticated camera system and higher resolution screen compared to both the S22 and S22+, along with an integrated S Pen—the first time this feature has appeared in an S Series device.
Design
The design language of the Galaxy S22 series remains consistent with earlier models in the S lineup, featuring an Infinity-O display that incorporates a centrally positioned circular cutout for the front-facing selfie camera. All three variants utilize Gorilla Glass Victus+ on their rear panels, marking an upgrade from the plastic backs used on smaller models in the previous generation. The rear camera setup on both the S22 and S22+ is encased within a metallic frame, whereas each lens on the S22 Ultra protrudes individually.
| Galaxy S22 and S22+ | Galaxy S22 Ultra | |
|---|---|---|
| Base colors |
|
|
| Online exclusive colors |
|
|
Chipsets
The Galaxy S22 range includes three variants featuring different hardware configurations. Most regions utilize Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, including countries such as Argentina, Australia, Canada, China, India, Mexico, and the United States. However, all European markets and some African countries are equipped with Samsung’s Exynos 2200, which incorporates a new AMD-based GPU.
Display
The S22 lineup is equipped with "Dynamic AMOLED 2X" panels that include HDR10+ compatibility and incorporate "dynamic tone mapping" technology. Each device in the series employs a second-generation ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor.
| Model | Screen Size | Resolution | Maximum Refresh Rate | Variable refresh rate Range | Screen Design |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S22 | 6.1 in (155 mm) | 2340×1080 | 120 Hz | 60 Hz to 120 Hz | Curved edges |
| S22+ | 6.6 in (168 mm) | ||||
| S22 Ultra | 6.8 in (173 mm) | 3088×1440 | 24 Hz to 120 Hz | Flat edges |
Storage
| Model | Galaxy S22 | Galaxy S22+ | Galaxy S22 Ultra | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RAM | Internal Storage | RAM | Internal Storage | RAM | Internal Storage | |
| Option 1 | 8GB | 128GB | 8GB | 128GB | 8GB | 128GB |
| Option 2 | 8GB | 256GB | 8GB | 256GB | 12GB | 256GB |
| Option 3 | - | - | - | - | 12GB | 512GB |
| Option 4 | - | - | - | - | 12GB | 1TB |
The Galaxy S22 and S22+ both come with 8 GB of Random-access memory and offer internal storage choices of 128 GB or 256 GB. The S22 Ultra provides an 8 GB RAM variant with 128 GB storage, plus a higher-tier 12 GB RAM option paired with 256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB of internal storage. Unlike its predecessor, the S21 Ultra, the S22 Ultra does not include a model featuring 16 GB of RAM. None of the three devices support expandable storage via microSD cards.
Batteries
The battery capacities for the S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra are respectively 3,700 mAh, 4,500 mAh, and 5,000 mAh Li-Po units. Wired charging through USB-C supports up to 25W on the S22 using USB Power Delivery, while the S22+ and S22 Ultra enable faster charging at up to 45W. However, testing has revealed minimal real-world difference between the two charging speeds. All models support Qi wireless charging at a maximum of 15W and offer reverse wireless charging—marketed as "Wireless PowerShare"—which allows powering other Qi-compatible devices at up to 4.5W.
Connectivity
Each phone in the series provides support for both SA and NSA modes on 5G networks. The Galaxy S22 is compatible with Wi-Fi 6 and features Bluetooth 5.2, whereas the Galaxy S22+ and S22 Ultra upgrade to Wi-Fi 6E alongside Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity. Additionally, the S22+ and Ultra models include Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology for short-range communication similar to Bluetooth (distinct from Verizon's marketing term for 5G mmWave as Ultra Wideband). Samsung utilizes UWB in their "SmartThings Find" service and with the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag+.
Cameras
| Model | Galaxy S22 & S22+ | Galaxy S22 Ultra | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wide | Specifications | 50 MP, f/1.8 aperture, 24 mm focal length, 1/1.56" sensor size, Dual Pixel PDAF, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) | 108 MP, f/1.8 aperture, 24 mm focal length, 1/1.33" sensor size, PDAF, Laser Autofocus, OIS |
| Sensor Model | Samsung S5KGN5 | Samsung S5KHM3 | |
| Ultrawide | Specifications | 12 MP, f/2.2 aperture, 13 mm focal length, 1/2.55" sensor size; Dual Pixel PDAF present on the S22 Ultra | |
| Sensor Model | Sony IMX563 | ||
| Telephoto | Specifications | 10 MP, f/2.4 aperture, 70 mm focal length, 1/3.94" sensor size, PDAF, OIS, 3x optical zoom | 10 MP, f/2.4 aperture, 70 mm focal length, 1/3.52" sensor size, Dual Pixel PDAF, OIS, 3x optical zoom |
| Sensor Model | Samsung S5K3K1 | Sony IMX754 | |
| Periscope Telephoto | Specifications | - | 10 MP, f/4.9 aperture, 240 mm focal length, 1/3.52" sensor size, Dual Pixel PDAF, OIS, 10x optical zoom |
| Sensor Model | Sony IMX754 | ||
| Front-facing | Specifications | 10 MP, f/2.2 aperture, 26 mm focal length, 1/3.24" sensor size, PDAF | 40 MP, f/2.2 aperture, 26 mm focal length, 1/2.8" sensor size, PDAF |
| Sensor Model | Sony IMX374 | Samsung S5KGH1 | |
The Galaxy S22 and S22+ feature a main wide camera with a 50-megapixel sensor accompanied by a 10-megapixel telephoto lens offering 3x optical zoom and a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens. The S22 Ultra continues with its predecessor’s high-resolution 108-megapixel main sensor with support for 12-bit HDR imaging. It is equipped with two telephoto cameras at 10 megapixels each providing both 3x and 10x optical zoom capabilities alongside a 12-megapixel ultrawide sensor. For selfies and video calls, the front camera is a 10-megapixel unit on the S22 and S22+, whereas the Ultra model boasts a significantly higher resolution front-facing camera at 40 megapixels.
The entire Galaxy S22 lineup supports HDR10+ video recording and is compatible with the High Efficiency Image File Format (HEIF).
Video Capabilities
Supported video capture options for the Galaxy S22 series include:
- 8K recording at 24 frames per second (fps)
- 4K recording at both 30 and 60 fps settings
- Full HD (1080p) recording at multiple frame rates: 30fps, 60fps, 120fps, and up to 240fps
- HD (720p) slow-motion capture at up to 960fps (with the S22 Ultra employing interpolation to achieve this frame rate from an initial 480fps source)
Users can extract high-quality still images directly from recorded high-resolution video footage for use as standalone photographs.
S Pen
Marking a first for Samsung’s S series smartphones, the Galaxy S22 Ultra integrates an embedded S Pen stylus—a signature feature traditionally exclusive to the Galaxy Note lineup. This iteration of the S Pen reduces latency drastically to just 2.8 milliseconds compared to previous models: Note20’s latency was approximately 26ms and Note20 Ultra/S21 Ultra’s was around 9ms (notably the S21 Ultra supported the stylus but did not include it in-box). The update also introduces an AI-driven coordination prediction technology enhancing pen responsiveness. Additional functionality includes support for Air gestures and Samsung’s Air Action system.
Software
Upon launch, the Galaxy S22 devices operated on Android 12 paired with Samsung’s proprietary One UI version 4.1 interface. Enhanced security is provided through Samsung Knox technology with a dedicated enterprise edition available for corporate environments. Samsung guarantees four major Android operating system upgrades—potentially extending support through Android version 16—and five years of security patches projected to continue until approximately 2027.
On October 28th, 2022, Samsung commenced deployment of One UI version 5.0 across the Galaxy S22 series devices. This update introduced several notable enhancements including the option to completely disable the RAM Plus feature (previously only adjustable down to a minimum of two gigabytes), along with a revamped lock screen customization interface inspired by iOS 16. The update also expanded Google’s Material You design language across most native Samsung apps as well as select third-party applications supporting this framework—offering extensive personalization options within One UI. Additionally, One UI 5 refreshed app icons delivering a cleaner visual appearance throughout the user interface.
In August of 2024, the Galaxy S22 received the One UI version 6.1.1 upgrade based on Android 14, coinciding with rollout on Samsung’s latest foldable devices such as the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6. This release introduced new AI-powered features exclusive to this generation of Galaxy smartphones and beyond. However, despite these additions being part of version 6.1.1 internally, device reports typically list version number as merely “6.1,” since full availability of the newer build remains limited primarily to foldable form factors.
By May of 2025, Samsung officially launched One UI version 7, built upon Android 15, for all models within the Galaxy S22 lineup.
Controversy over performance throttling
Investigations conducted by the benchmarking tool Geekbench and the technology news site Android Police revealed that Samsung's Game Optimizing Service (GOS) was significantly limiting device performance in several widely used applications, while permitting full performance during benchmarking tests. For example, a specific evaluation on the S22+ involved using a modified version of Geekbench 5 disguised as Genshin Impact to the GOS, which demonstrated a reduction of 45% in single-core and 28% in multi-core processing power compared to an unaltered version of the benchmark. Following these findings, Geekbench permanently removed all models from the S22, S21, and S10 series from its platform. In reaction to this, Samsung issued an update enabling Galaxy S22 owners to deactivate GOS on their devices.
Gallery
-
Rear view of the Galaxy S22
-
Rear view of the Galaxy S22 Ultra
-
Galaxy S22 lineup
-
Galaxy S22 model
-
Galaxy S22+
-
Galaxy S22 Ultra edition
-
Components of Galaxy S22 Ultra
See also
References
External links
- Galaxy S22 5G – official Samsung page
- Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G – official Samsung page
- Galaxy S22 user manual – download link for Samsung Galaxy S22 user guide