Phantom Black, Cotton Flower, and more

Samsung is set to announce its latest Galaxy S flagship at Unpacked on February 1. Expect three different models, just like last year. For those that need the refresher, that means you can expect the Samsung Galaxy S23, S23 Plus, and S23 Ultra. We already know a fair deal about what to expect from the Samsung Galaxy S23 family, including the Galaxy S23 colors we can expect. If leaked press renders and other rumors are accurate, the Samsung Galaxy S23 series will launch in the following four colors: Phantom Black, Cotton Flower, Misty Lilac, and Botanic Green. Remember these are not official names and are subject to change.

Last year’s Samsung Galaxy S22 family was a bit confusing when it came to color choices. The Galaxy S22 and S22Plus were offered in pink gold, graphite, green, phantom black, and phantom white — in addition to exclusive colors that were only found with certain carriers and regions: Cream, Sky Blue, and Violet. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra had the last three colors and burgundy as their main choice alongside regional/carrier choices of graphite, sky blue, and red.

It’s possible Samsung will still have a few surprise colors, but the four colors we’ve been introduced to appear to be available on all three Galaxy S23 models this time.

Samsung’s Phantom Black makes a return but it isn’t quite the same as last year’s Phantom Black. This particular shade of black looks to be fairly muted, almost gray. You might be a little disappointed if you prefer a more vibrant shade of black. Maybe it’ll shine a bit brighter in actual hands-on photos? That said, it’s not a bad looking color and probably one of the best of the four options.

This is not the pure white shade Samsung gave us last year, then known as Phantom White. The new Cotton Flower color choice is more of a cream or off-white color than a true white. Previous rumors suggested we might see beige as a color choice, but it’s likely these rumors were pointing to Cotton Flower. While this particular shade is more white than beige, it’s still pretty close. Honestly, I really like off-white, especially since vibrant white tends to be pretty common with other handset manufacturers.

Misty Lilac is essentially a shade of pink. We’ve seen this one show up in a lot of renders and leaks, and on all three models. The shade is a bit lighter than the Pink Gold option on the S22. As we’ve seen with all the colors, it’s also pretty dull and muted. Samsung apparently has decided that the S23 series should be more professional and less colorful. Whether that’s a good thing or a downgrade? Honestly, it’s up to your personal preferences.

I really liked the Galaxy S22 green color, but I’m less excited about Botanic Green. The vibrancy of the shade really appealed to me, especially since it was basically a take on forest green (one of my favorites). The new Botanic Green trades in this polish and shine for a paler, lighter green. It’s almost more gray-green to my eyes. On the bright side, this is the color that stands out the most. If you like color choices that turn heads, this is probably the best of the four choices.

What about any other exclusive colors, will the S23 series have any?

The Galaxy S22 series had a few special exclusive colors that stood out a bit more including a light shade of blue and a unique red that had an almost orange-like hue to it. These models weren’t available in every country, and typically only certain carriers offered them. We’ve yet to see any of these colors leak with any real confidence, but we’d be shocked if Samsung doesn’t offer a few more choices. For what it’s worth the rumor mill claims we could still see a Phantom White and maybe take on Pink Gold.  Trusted tipster Ahmed Qwaider claimed late last year we could very well see at least a few exclusives, including the possibility of Phantom Red.

Interested in the Galaxy S23?You can’t buy the Samsung Galaxy S23 series yet, but you can reserve the Galaxy S23 now with no firm commitment. By reserving you’ll receive a $50 Samsung Credit for one device, or a $100 credit for two, if you decide to go through with the purchase.