Samsung Galaxy Note 7 in 2025: A Historic Phone with a Complex Legacy
The Samsung Galaxy Note 7, released in August 2016, was one of the most eagerly anticipated devices in Samsung’s Note series. It featured a stunning design, powerful specifications, and new features like an improved S Pen, iris scanning, and a curved display. Unfortunately, the Note 7 became infamous for its battery-related safety issues, leading to a global recall and ultimately its discontinuation.
Despite the challenges during its launch, the Note 7 still has a unique place in smartphone history. As we enter 2025, the Note 7 isn’t widely available in new condition, but it still pops up in the used market and is sought after by collectors and fans of the Note series who are interested in the first-ever folding edge experience.
Samsung Galaxy Note 7 Price in 2025
| Condition | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| New (if available) | $350 – $500 |
| Refurbished | $250 – $350 |
| Used (Good Condition) | $150 – $250 |
Given its historical significance and limited availability, the price can vary significantly based on condition and market.
Samsung Galaxy Note 7 Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 5.7-inch Super AMOLED, Quad HD (2560 × 1440) |
| Processor | Exynos 8890 (Global), Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 (USA) |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Storage | 64GB (expandable via microSD up to 256GB) |
| Rear Camera | 12MP (f/1.7, Dual Pixel, OIS) |
| Front Camera | 5MP (f/1.7) |
| Battery | 3,500mAh (Li-Ion) |
| Charging | Fast charging (15W), Wireless charging (Qi, PMA) |
| Operating System | Android 6.0 Marshmallow (upgradable to Android 8.0 Oreo) |
| Security | Iris Scanner, Fingerprint Scanner |
| Build | Metal and glass body, IP68 water and dust resistance |
| S Pen | Bluetooth-enabled, Air Command, improved pressure sensitivity |
| Colors Available | Black Onyx, Silver Titanium, Blue Coral, Gold Platinum |
Why the Galaxy Note 7 Still Holds Value in 2025
- Gorgeous Quad HD display with vibrant colors, perfect for media consumption and gaming (still impressive in 2025).
- S Pen: One of the standout features of the Note series, the Bluetooth-enabled S Pen offers advanced functions like Air Command and remote control.
- Great camera: The 12MP Dual Pixel camera was revolutionary for its time and still delivers sharp, fast photos in good lighting.
- IP68 water resistance: Still competitive, allowing the phone to withstand dust and immersion in up to 1.5 meters of water.
- Unique design: The Note 7 set the standard for curved-edge displays, which is now a common feature in many smartphones.
Drawbacks to Consider
- Battery issues: The Galaxy Note 7 was notorious for its battery-related recalls due to the potential of the battery overheating or catching fire. While refurbished models are often checked for this, buying a used model can be risky.
- Outdated software: While the Note 7 has received some software updates, it is no longer supported by Samsung for major OS upgrades. It won’t run the latest Android features.
- Age-related performance: Though the Note 7 was powerful in 2016, it can feel sluggish with newer apps and intensive tasks due to its older processor and RAM.
Final Thoughts
The Samsung Galaxy Note 7 in 2025 is more of a collector’s item than a daily driver. While its features were cutting-edge for its time and it’s still capable of basic tasks, it’s important to consider the battery issues and lack of modern software support before purchasing. If you’re a fan of the Note series or interested in smartphone history, the Note 7 is worth considering—but be aware of the risks involved with its legacy.