Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Review: The Galaxy lineup has once again outdone itself with the release of the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, a smartphone that pushes the boundaries of performance, design, and innovation. With its supercharged AI features, cutting-edge hardware, and stellar cameras, Samsung has cemented its flagship device as one of the most premium options for Android users. But does it truly live up to the hype? Here’s a detailed review of the Galaxy S24 Ultra and what makes it the “ultra” smartphone it claims to be.
A First Look at the Price and Variants
Before we dig into the details, let’s talk about pricing. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is unmistakably a luxury device, starting at ₹129,999 for the 12GB RAM + 256GB storage variant. If you’re willing to splurge further, you can opt for the 12GB RAM + 512GB version at ₹139,999 or the 12GB RAM + 1TB storage variant priced at ₹159,999. Buyers can choose from elite colors like Titanium Gray, Black, and Violet, with exclusive finishes like Titanium Blue, Green, and Orange offered online.
Of note, the absence of a charger in the box feels like an unusual omission at this price point. Buyers will need to purchase a 45W fast charger separately to maximize charging capabilities. While this aligns with the industry standard, it’s one area where Samsung could have added extra value.
Redefining Design and Display
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra takes cues from its predecessor, the S23 Ultra, while incorporating a refined design language. The curved edges have been swapped for a flat 6.82-inch AMOLED display, delivering a bolder and more functional aesthetic. Protected by Corning’s Gorilla Glass Armor, this screen offers improved durability, reduced reflectivity by up to 75%, and a brighter maximum output of 2600 nits—perfect for outdoor viewing.
The addition of a titanium frame adds a premium touch but doesn’t significantly reduce the weight of the phone. Paired with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, the phone’s exterior feels both luxurious and robust. From elegant color options to impeccable finishes, the S24 Ultra is a treat for those who want their devices to look as good as they perform.
Feature-Rich Software With One UI 6.1
Under the hood, the Galaxy S24 Ultra runs on Android 14 with Samsung’s refined One UI 6.1 skin. The focus this time is usability paired with advanced AI features. Tweaks like a redesigned notification shade, smoother animations, and an always-on display that shows custom widgets reflect Samsung’s emphasis on user experience.
One UI 6.1 debuts groundbreaking features like Circle to Search, powered by collaboration with Google, which allows users to highlight anything on-screen to search for related information seamlessly. From real-time voice and text translations via Live Translate to advanced AI tools in the Samsung Notes app, each feature has been thoughtfully integrated to enhance productivity.
Perhaps one of the most attractive promises is Samsung’s commitment to seven years of OS and security updates, setting a new benchmark in long-term software support.
Performance That Lives Up to the Ultra Tag
At its heart, the Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy chipset, paired with 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM. This custom-tweaked processor ensures blazing performance for all tasks, from switching between apps to gaming at the highest settings. Benchmarks reflect its dominance, with exceptional results in both GPU and CPU processing capabilities.
Thermals are kept in check with a 1.9X upgraded vapor chamber, keeping the phone cool during demanding tasks like 4K video editing or long gaming sessions. Battery performance is stellar, with the 5,000mAh battery easily lasting a full day of heavy usage and more than 23 hours in continuous video playback tests. While its 45W fast charging isn’t industry-leading, it balances speed and battery health effectively, reaching 50% in just under 30 minutes.
Cameras That Truly Impress
The camera system on the Galaxy S24 Ultra remains one of its standout features. Here’s what you’ll get:
- A 200MP primary sensor for incredible detail.
- A 12MP ultra-wide lens for group shots and landscapes.
- A 10MP telephoto lens with 3x zoom.
- A new 50MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom.
Whether you’re capturing a sunset, shooting indoors, or experimenting with nighttime photography, the Galaxy S24 Ultra delivers on all fronts. Samsung’s ProVisual Engine, built with AI, enhances images further by offering features like object removal and dynamic recomposition. Even casual photographers can produce studio-quality shots with minimal effort. Video performance is equally commendable, capable of recording in 8K and HDR10+ with effective stabilization.
AI Features Steal the Show
The crown jewel of the Galaxy S24 Ultra is Samsung’s integration of advanced AI features:
- Galaxy AI simplifies tasks like real-time text and voice translation, grammar proofreading, and enhanced video editing.
- The Generative AI Suite lets users remaster images, erase unwanted objects, or even create slow-motion videos from regular footage with minimal user intervention.
- Chat Assist enhances professional communication with instant grammar fixes and writing tone adjustments, functioning as a virtual editor at your fingertips.
These features operate seamlessly within One UI, ensuring convenience without requiring third-party apps. However, some functionalities like image generation rely on an active internet connection, which could be a limitation for those frequently offline.
What’s Missing?
While the Galaxy S24 Ultra impresses in nearly every aspect, there’s still room for improvement:
- The absence of a charger in the box feels like a significant oversight, especially at this premium price range.
- Charging speeds could be better compared to competitors offering 67W or faster options in similar devices.
- Telephoto zoom performance in low-light scenarios lags slightly behind the competition.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is a benchmark for premium Android smartphones. It excels in nearly every department—display, performance, AI features, and cameras—making it the ultimate device for power users and professionals alike. While it’s not an inexpensive investment, the features and seven-year software support justify the price for those seeking unparalleled quality and longevity.
For buyers of older Galaxy devices, this is a worthy upgrade, and even iPhone loyalists will find it hard to overlook this powerhouse. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a productivity geek, or just someone who loves having the best in tech, the Galaxy S24 Ultra won’t disappoint.
If you’re ready to experience the future of smartphones, the Galaxy S24 Ultra should be high on your list—perhaps even sitting at the very top.
