Weekly Poll: Do You Still Use the S Pen’s Remote Features?

The S Pen, introduced in 2011 with the Galaxy Note, initially worked as a passive stylus using a Wacom digitizer. In 2018, Samsung upgraded it with Bluetooth and remote control features, allowing users to take photos, switch cameras, and control media. However, with the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Samsung has removed these remote capabilities due to low user engagement. Now, users can rely on devices like the Galaxy Watch, Galaxy Ring, or gesture controls for similar functions.

Introduction

Samsung introduced the S Pen in 2011 with the Galaxy Note, offering a precise stylus experience for writing and drawing. In 2018, the Galaxy Note9 took it further by adding Bluetooth functionality, turning the S Pen into a remote control. Users could take photos, switch cameras, control media, and navigate slides with simple button presses. However, Samsung has now removed these remote features from the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Let’s explore why.

From Passive Stylus to Smart Remote

The early S Pen models were passive devices that relied on a Wacom digitizer for pressure sensitivity. The 2018 upgrade introduced Bluetooth, allowing users to:

• Capture photos with a single press
• Switch between front and rear cameras
• Control presentations and media

This made the S Pen more than just a writing tool, turning it into a convenient remote.

Why Samsung Removed Bluetooth Features

Despite its potential, Samsung found that most users weren’t utilizing the remote functions. Due to low engagement, the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s S Pen now lacks Bluetooth, reverting to its pre-2018 capabilities.

Instead, Samsung encourages users to rely on:

• Galaxy Watch for camera and media control
• Galaxy Ring for gesture-based commands
• Palm Gestures powered by AI

Referenceby : Samsung