Gone are the days when Samsung’s Unpacked events were just about pomp and less practicality.
Having spent a few hours with the newly unveiled Galaxy S24, S24+, and S24 Ultra, it’s clear that Samsung has made a monumental shift, especially with its Galaxy AI features. It’s put quite a lot of effort into real-world use cases for many of those features; and makes a great case for how generative AI will be part of all smartphones, very, very soon.
Samsung S24: A Familiar Yet Refined Design
At first glance, the S24 and S24+ might remind you of another popular smartphone – yes, the iPhone. With their flat metal sides and brick-like dimensions, Samsung seems to have taken a leaf out of Apple’s design playbook. But don’t be fooled; these phones have their unique flair. The displays are flat and flush with the aluminum frame, differing from the iPhone 15’s gently curved screens. Other subtle differences include the placement of the single hole-punch camera and the slightly more pronounced curvature at the back.
Despite these similarities, the S24 and S24+ are distinctively Samsung. They’re slightly more compact than their Apple counterparts, suggesting a deliberate design choice.
The S24 Ultra: A Bold Statement in Titanium
The S24 Ultra stands apart in Samsung’s lineup. It’s a nod to the future, with sharper corners and a boxier design than its siblings. The fully flat 6.8-inch display, surrounded by equilateral bezels and a titanium frame, gives the Ultra a unique identity. Reminiscent of the Z Fold 5 prototypes, the Ultra is a blend of innovation and luxury.
The S24 Ultra is not just about looks; it’s packed with features and commands a premium price of $1,524 USD / 5,683 AED. Its color, Titanium Violet, is a chameleon, fluctuating between purple and dark gray, adding to its allure.
Galaxy AI: The Real Game Changer
While the hardware is impressive, it’s the Galaxy AI that truly steals the show. Features like Circle to Search and Live Translate aren’t just gimmicks; they’re genuinely useful tools that enhance daily smartphone use. For instance, Circle to Search effortlessly identified my limited edition Nike Jordan 1s, showcasing the feature’s potential for everyday utility.
The AI’s prowess extends to photo editing as well. The shadow removal feature, for example, is a revelation. It effortlessly edits out unwanted shadows, making photos look professionally touched up with minimal effort.
Galaxy S24: A Step Towards Practical Innovation
From what I’ve seen, the Galaxy AI features aren’t just a fleeting fascination; they have the potential to be genuinely impactful in the long term. Samsung seems to have transitioned from a brand known for quirky gimmicks to one focused on utility and practicality.
The new Galaxy S24 series might be a bit on the safer side, design-wise, but it’s a welcome change, emphasizing features that users will appreciate and use regularly. It’s a move towards practical innovation, where utility takes center stage, and that’s a direction we can all get excited about.