Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Review

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra emerges as the beacon of a new era in smartphones, steering us towards a future where Artificial Intelligence (AI) transforms how we interact with our devices. Priced at ₹1,29,999 (12GB RAM + 256GB storage), ₹1,39,999 (12GB + 512GB), or ₹1,59,999 (12GB + 1TB), this flagship phone introduces the Galaxy AI suite, paving the way for a groundbreaking AI-driven smartphone experience.

One notable feature of the Galaxy AI suite is its prowess in photo editing. The AI effortlessly removes reflections and unwanted objects from photos, offering a quick and intuitive solution for enhancing captured moments. While the reflection removal accuracy stands at an impressive 8 out of 10, object removal depends on the complexity of the backdrop. The AI's creativity, while occasionally overcompensating, adds a unique touch without sacrificing minimalism.

The Galaxy AI suite extends beyond photo editing, featuring live translation for phone calls – a valuable tool for global citizens. The accuracy of live translation is evolving, considering factors like pronunciation, accent, and audio quality. Additionally, the suite facilitates transcriptions in the recorder app, turning recorded meetings into text with timestamps and subhead summaries.

A standout feature is "Circle to Search," a dynamic tool accessible at all times, providing immediate search results for anything on the screen. This function, similar to Google Lens, enhances user experience by offering quick and relevant information.

However, the real question is whether users are ready to fully embrace AI assistance. The Galaxy S24 Ultra's AI tools offer undeniable utility, yet their effectiveness depends on individual preferences and needs.

Beyond its AI capabilities, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra impresses as a flagship phone with top-notch finesse. The device retains the excellence expected from a premium Android phone, with a vibrant display boasting a claimed peak brightness of 2600 nits. The addition of an anti-glare coating and Gorilla Glass Armor enhances the visual experience and provides durability.

The camera performance, led by a 200-megapixel main camera, demonstrates a game of two halves. While the 5x telephoto lens replaces the 10x from its predecessor, offering more detailed photography, inconsistencies in detailing and focus raise concerns. Awaiting a software update to address these issues, the camera's Super HDR support stands out, providing photos with exceptional dynamic range.

The device's battery life sees incremental improvement, thanks to the new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. With around 7 hours of screen-on time, users can navigate most workdays without a midday recharge. While not boasting the fastest charging speeds, the Galaxy S24 Ultra offers a reliable 45-watt wired and 15-watt wireless charging.

In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra marks a significant stride in the Android flagship domain, presenting a harmonious blend of AI innovation, powerful specs, and refined design. Its AI smarts, combined with generational improvements, position it as the definitive Android flagship, albeit at a slightly higher price point. For current Galaxy S23 Ultra owners, the upgrade may not be urgent, but for others, the S24 Ultra stands as the showcase Android phone of the moment, promising a glimpse into the AI-powered future.