The Galaxy S24 Ultra has been my daily driver for the past 12 months, and with Samsung’s next Galaxy Unpacked event just around the corner, it feels like the perfect time to reflect on what has made this phone unique and where it stands in the evolution of Samsung’s flagship lineup.
The Last of Its Kind?
As rumors about the Galaxy S25 Ultra swirl, the S24 Ultra might be remembered as the last of its kind. Its boxy, industrial design harkens back to Samsung’s Note series, appealing to die-hard fans of the brand’s heritage. This phone embodied Samsung’s branding, showcasing the company’s prowess in combining form and functionality.
The S24 Ultra was also the first Ultra model to feature a completely flat display. Paired with a curved titanium frame, it struck a balance between comfort and modernity. This design choice not only gave it a distinct identity but also hinted at Samsung’s evolving approach to flagship devices.
A Display Like No Other
The 6.8-inch flat AMOLED display of the S24 Ultra remains a standout feature. With a peak brightness of 2,600 nits, the screen delivered unparalleled visibility in all conditions. Over the past year, software updates ensured consistent performance, making it one of the most vibrant and color-accurate displays on the market.
Moreover, the anti-reflective coating and Gorilla Glass Armor added durability and usability. While some users have reported issues with smudging, proper maintenance can preserve its pristine appearance. For me, the display has been a true highlight of this phone’s design.
Cameras: Hardware Meets Software
The camera system on the Galaxy S24 Ultra was another area of excellence. While the 200MP main sensor and the 50MP 5x telephoto lens provided hardware upgrades, the real game-changer was in the software.
Samsung introduced innovative camera modes like 4K Dual Recording, Auto Framing, and Single Take, which enhanced flexibility and creativity. Features like 4K 120fps Pro Video Mode and 8K recording showcased the potential of smartphone photography, further fueled by the power of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor.
While the hardware pushed boundaries, it was the software-driven features that truly elevated the photography experience, ensuring the S24 Ultra remained relevant in an era where smartphone cameras are nearing their technological peak.
Performance and Usability
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy, the S24 Ultra handled demanding tasks effortlessly. From Samsung DeX to video exporting, its performance showcased notable improvements over its predecessor.
However, battery life was a point of contention. Despite the 5,000mAh capacity, the battery performance fell short of the S23 Ultra, likely due to the increased demands of its advanced features.
AI Features and the S Pen
The Galaxy AI tools, such as sketch-to-image and generative editing, added a creative edge to the S24 Ultra. However, the true standout was the S Pen, Samsung’s hallmark feature. Embedded within the device, the S Pen offered a range of functionalities, from taking quick notes to controlling presentations and music. It remains one of the most defining features of Samsung’s flagship line, setting it apart from the competition.
A Flawed Genius
The Galaxy S24 Ultra is not without its flaws. Some may argue that it didn’t fully meet the sky-high expectations placed upon it. However, in retrospect, this phone represents an era of innovation and refinement.
As we look forward to the Galaxy S25 Ultra and beyond, the S24 Ultra will likely be remembered as a device that pushed boundaries while staying true to Samsung’s identity.
What are your thoughts on the S24 Ultra? Did it live up to your expectations? Share your experiences in the comments, and stay tuned for coverage of the next Galaxy Unpacked event.
