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If you own a Samsung Galaxy Ultra - or you're thinking about upgrading to one - the S Pen is one of the features that truly sets these phones apart. It’s more than just a stylus tucked into the bottom of your device; it’s a powerful tool built for creativity, productivity and everyday convenience.
The quick verdict
The S Pen is genuinely useful and one of the best reasons to choose a Galaxy Ultra. It lives inside the phone, so it is always with you, and it works as a pen, pointer, camera remote, music control and shortcut tool. If you take notes, edit photos or sign documents on your phone, an Ultra model with the built-in S Pen is well worth considering.
The Samsung S Pen at a glance
| Point | What to know |
|---|---|
| First S Series model | Galaxy S22 Ultra debuted the built-in S Pen |
| Which models | Every Ultra model since, and only the Ultra |
| How to remove it | Press the button left of the charging port |
| Battery impact | Storing it inside does not affect battery life |
| Key features | Air Command, translate, Smart Select, camera remote |
Here’s why the S Pen continues to be one of the most iconic features of Samsung’s Ultra lineup.
For a closer look at Samsung’s latest flagship, check out our Samsung Galaxy S25 Review.
What Does the Galaxy S Pen Do?
The Galaxy S22 Ultra was the first S Series model to debut with a built-in S Pen, blending the legacy of the Note Series with the power of the Ultra name. Since then, every Ultra model has included the S Pen neatly housed inside the phone - no extra accessories needed.
Removing the S Pen is simple: look at the bottom edge of your Ultra model. To the left of the charging port, you’ll see a small button. Press it, and the S Pen will pop out slightly. Pull it gently to remove it, and when you’re done, slide it back in until you hear the click.
Even when stored inside the phone, performance and battery life are unaffected - it’s designed to live in your device without causing any bulk or interference.
Main Features of the Galaxy S Pen
The S Pen includes far more than handwriting support. Some of its most popular features include:
- Air Command shortcuts
- Translate text instantly
- Create Notes anywhere, anytime
- Magnify content on-screen
- Camera remote for group photos or hands-free shots
- Music control without touching your device
- Launch apps quickly
- Smart Select to crop or capture parts of your screen
- AR Doodle for creative 3D drawings
- Handwriting-to-text conversion
- Built-in mic support for certain actions
Is the Samsung S Pen Actually Useful?
In short - yes. The S Pen remains one of the most versatile smartphone tools available.
Unlike Apple’s stylus, which is sold separately and isn’t designed to fit inside an iPhone, Samsung builds the S Pen directly into the body of the Ultra models. This makes it:
- Convenient - always with you, no extra storage needed
- More versatile - functioning as a pen, pointer, remote, mic and shortcut tool
- Ideal for productivity - from note-taking to photo editing to signing documents
It’s also part of what makes the Ultra line so unique. Because the S Pen requires dedicated internal space, Samsung only includes it on the Ultra - and that exclusivity enhances its value.
If you're considering an upgrade, the Ultra models offer one of the best all-round experiences Samsung provides. You can browse our refurbished Samsung Galaxy Ultra range to find a great deal with the S Pen included.
For more Samsung picks, explore our roundup of the Top Samsung Phones of 2025.
Frequently asked questions
Which Samsung phones have a built-in S Pen?
The Galaxy S22 Ultra was the first S Series model with a built-in S Pen, and every Ultra model since has included it. Samsung only includes the S Pen on the Ultra because it needs dedicated internal space.
How do you take the S Pen out of a Galaxy Ultra?
Look at the bottom edge of your Galaxy Ultra and press the small button to the left of the charging port. The S Pen pops out slightly so you can pull it gently, then slide it back in until it clicks.
Does the S Pen drain the battery?
No. When the S Pen is stored inside the phone, performance and battery life are unaffected. The S Pen is designed to live in the device without adding bulk or causing interference.
What can the Samsung S Pen do?
The S Pen goes well beyond handwriting. Popular features include Air Command shortcuts, instant translation, notes anywhere, on-screen magnification, a camera remote, music control, Smart Select, AR Doodle and handwriting-to-text conversion.
How is the S Pen different from Apple's stylus?
Apple's stylus is sold separately and is not designed to fit inside an iPhone. Samsung builds the S Pen directly into the body of its Ultra models, so it is always with you with no extra storage needed.
