In addition to the technical optimizations and the easy-to-use AI functions, the Samsung Galaxy S24 is a phone that clearly distinguishes itself from the rest of the high-end devices.
Aad Munsterman and Rob Coenraads
Samsung introduced the Galaxy S24, the Plus and the top model the Ultra at the beginning of 2024. The latter is a sturdy model of 80 x 163 x 8 mm and is not light at 233 grams. The flat Corning Gorilla Armor glass front and back are connected via a titanium frame. The back has a matte layer where fingerprints are quickly visible. With IP68 it is dust and waterproof for up to 30 minutes at 1.5 meters.
Screen and sound
The 6.8” QHD+ Dynamic Amoled 2x screen now offers an unprecedentedly clear and detailed image with super smooth display with a peak brightness of 2600 nits and up to 120 Hz image refresh; HDR10+ is available for HDR display. The sound comes from two stereo speakers at the top and bottom and they sound good.
Processor, memory and battery
The energy-efficient Snapdragon 8 Gen3 chipset is good at handling AI functions and works in combination with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. The 5000m Ah battery provides up to 2 days of capacity. Charging is possible via a not included adapter of a maximum of 45W within 1.5 hours or wirelessly with 15W. The Ultra has an integral S-pen stored on the bottom left.
Cameras
The main camera is 200MP and captures the image in smaller pixels, bundling 16 pixels for 12.5MP photos. There are two telephoto cameras with 10MP/3x and 50MP/5x zoom, which are now available via cropping and AI optimization better results are achieved. The wide-angle and selfie cameras have a 12MP lens and have remained the same. All lenses on the rear have optical image stabilization. The results from the main and telephoto cameras are of the highest level, sometimes truly incredible.
Software and Update Policy
This S24 Ultra has Android 14 with the One UI user interface and Galaxy AI. With this, Samsung wants to make a number of functions with artificial intelligence accessible to a large audience and later also in the S23 series. The Gemini Nano model, a large Google language model, is used. In addition, Machine Learning in the device and Cloud Processing outside the device are used for the heavier tasks. Read more about the AI functions (also available on the Pixel 8 Pro) on pcactive.nl Circle to Search, Live Translate and Interpreter.
The software updates now run sustainably for 7 years, until 2031!
Conclusion
In addition to the technical optimizations and the easy-to-use AI functions, the Samsung Galaxy S24 is a phone that clearly distinguishes itself from the rest of the high-end devices. The price is quite high and Samsung does not rule out that after 2025 you will have to pay for the advanced functions, especially if cloud services have to be used for this. Too bad that the Dutch translation functions are not yet available.
Product: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Recommended retail price: from € 1449,-
Plus points:
* state-of-the-art technology
* great cameras
* accessible and usable AI features
Negatives:
* price and possible subscription for AI
* NL translation not yet available