Quick Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Review represents a significant leap forward in smartphone technology, primarily through its integration of Galaxy AI features and improved hardware capabilities. While expensive at $1,299, it delivers unprecedented AI capabilities, superior camera performance, and excellent battery life.
Key Specifications
- Display: 6.8-inch QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X (1-120Hz adaptive)
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy
- RAM: 12GB
- Storage: 256GB/512GB/1TB
- Main Camera System: 200MP main + 12MP ultra-wide + 50MP telephoto (5x) + 10MP telephoto (3x)
- Front Camera: 12MP
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Operating System: One UI 6.1 based on Android 14
What’s New in 2024
- Titanium frame replacing aluminum
- Galaxy AI features
- Brighter display (2,600 nits peak)
- Flatter display design
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy
- 7 years of OS updates
Design and Build Quality
The S24 Ultra introduces a titanium frame, following Apple’s lead with the iPhone 15 Pro series. This provides:
- Better durability
- Premium feel
- Slightly lighter weight
- Improved heat dissipation
The flat display marks a departure from the curved screens of previous generations, offering:
- Better S Pen functionality
- Reduced accidental touches
- Improved screen protector compatibility
Galaxy AI Features
Samsung’s major focus for 2024 is AI integration:
Live Translation
- Real-time call translation in 13 languages
- Chat translation in messaging apps
- Offline functionality for key features
Camera Features
- Generative Edit for object removal/movement
- AI-powered photo suggestions
- Enhanced night photography
- Better portrait mode processing
Productivity
- Note assist for summarization
- Transcript assist for voice recordings
- Circle to Search with Google
Camera System Performance
The quad-camera setup shows improvements in:
- Low-light photography
- Zoom clarity at 5x and 10x
- Portrait mode edge detection
- Video stabilization
Sample Scenarios
- Daylight: Exceptional detail and dynamic range
- Night: Improved noise reduction
- Zoom: Clear shots up to 10x, usable up to 30x
- Portrait: Better subject separation
- Video: Stable 8K at 30fps
Display Excellence
The 6.8-inch panel sets new standards:
- 2,600 nits peak brightness
- Better outdoor visibility
- Reduced reflectivity
- Improved color accuracy
- Enhanced HDR performance
Performance
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy delivers:
- 30% better CPU performance
- 25% improved GPU performance
- Better power efficiency
- Enhanced AI processing
- Cooler operation under load
Battery Life
The 5000mAh battery provides:
- 1-2 days of regular use
- 45W fast charging
- 15W wireless charging
- Reverse wireless charging
- Better efficiency than S23 Ultra
Software and Updates
One UI 6.1 brings:
- Cleaner interface
- Better customization
- Enhanced privacy features
- 7 years of OS updates
- Regular security patches
Value Analysis
Pros
- Advanced AI features
- Premium build quality
- Excellent camera system
- Long software support
- S Pen functionality
- Strong battery life
Cons
- High price point
- Large size not for everyone
- Some AI features require internet
- Learning curve for AI tools
Price Breakdown
- 256GB: $1,299
- 512GB: $1,419
- 1TB: $1,619
Who Should Buy?
- Power users
- Photography enthusiasts
- Business professionals
- Note-takers
- Tech enthusiasts
- Content creators
Who Should Skip?
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Those preferring compact phones
- Basic smartphone users
- S23 Ultra owners
Expert Rating: 4.8/5
- Design: 5/5
- Performance: 4.8/5
- Camera: 4.9/5
- Battery: 4.7/5
- Value: 4.6/5
Future-Proofing
The S24 Ultra is well-positioned for longevity:
- 7 years of updates
- AI capabilities
- Strong hardware
- Durable construction
FAQ Section
Q: Is the S24 Ultra worth upgrading from S23 Ultra? A: Mainly if you value AI features and want the latest technology. The camera and performance improvements are incremental.
Q: Do AI features work offline? A: Some AI features work offline, but many require an internet connection for full functionality.
Q: How does battery life compare to previous models? A: Similar capacity but better efficiency, resulting in slightly improved battery life.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra represents the beginning of the AI smartphone era. While expensive, it offers unmatched features, powerful performance, and excellent long-term value through extended software support.
Last Updated: February 2024
