**Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: A Year of Trials and the Glimmer of Promise**
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, introduced with great excitement in early 2024, was touted as the apex of high-end Android smartphones. Featuring a flat screen, an anti-glare surface, a sturdy titanium frame, and an extraordinary seven-year software update guarantee, it appeared set to lead the flagship sector. Yet, as the year progressed, the S24 Ultra encountered various challenges that put its standing to the test. Despite these obstacles, Samsung’s dedication to innovation and enhancement inspires optimism for what lies ahead.
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### **A Troubled Beginning: Display and Design Concerns**
Right from the start, the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s display became a point of contention among users. Even though the flat screen was a shift from its forerunners, it suffered from issues like pixel graininess (mura), inconsistent brightness, and premature degradation of the oleophobic finish. These flaws were especially disconcerting given the device’s premium price tag.
– **Mura Effect:** Users noted that individual pixels struggled to maintain consistent brightness, resulting in a marked drop in display quality.
– **Oleophobic Coating Degradation:** Numerous users encountered lasting smudges on their displays as the protective layer deteriorated prematurely, prompting the need for screen protectors right out of the box.
– **Thermal Management and Brightness:** The phone’s brightness noticeably dropped during extended use, particularly in direct sunlight, a result of Samsung’s rigorous thermal management and dependence on PWM dimming.
In spite of these issues, the titanium frame garnered commendation for its toughness, although some users reported minor scratches caused by particular phone cases. The design, marked by squared corners, also split opinions, with speculation hinting at a transition to rounded corners in the forthcoming Galaxy S25 Ultra.
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### **Software Issues: Delays and Diverse Feedback**
The commitment to seven years of software updates was a daring initiative from Samsung, yet the postponed arrival of Android 15 and One UI 7 dampened enthusiasm. Initially anticipated sooner in the year, the final version of One UI 7 is now expected to launch in late January 2025.
– **One UI 7 Interface Modifications:** The interface introduced a vertical app drawer and a split notification panel, which drew parallels to Apple’s iOS. While some users favored the updates, others deemed them divisive.
– **Improvements in Multitasking:** The revamped multitasking feature, enabling users to preview multiple applications at once, was generally well-received.
– **Good Lock Redesign:** Samsung’s customization platform, Good Lock, is due for a substantial overhaul, providing users with even more options for personalization.
Samsung’s software vision—catering to a wide array of user preferences—remains a key aspect of its allure. Nevertheless, the delays and mixed feedback regarding One UI 7 emphasize the difficulties in balancing innovation with user expectations.
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### **Performance and Battery Life: A Mixed Experience**
The Galaxy S24 Ultra’s performance has remained commendable throughout the year, thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, which offers smooth and dependable operation. However, it falls short compared to newer contenders like the OnePlus 13 in terms of raw performance and thermal efficiency.
– **Ray-Tracing and Gaming:** Although the phone supports ray-tracing, this technology has yet to achieve significant traction in mobile gaming due to battery and performance limitations.
– **Battery Longevity:** The S24 Ultra’s battery life is respectable, but its charging speed is a notable weakness. With a peak charging speed of 45W, it lags behind rivals like the OnePlus 13, which can achieve a full charge in merely 30 minutes.
Samsung’s cautious strategy regarding charging speeds, prioritizing battery lifespan, feels outdated in an era where rapid charging is becoming the standard.
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### **Camera Functionality: Lagging Behind**
The Galaxy S24 Ultra’s camera system, although notable in several aspects, has struggled to keep up with competitors in essential areas.
– **Motion Capture:** The device’s capability to photograph moving subjects, such as children or pets, is still inferior to rivals like the Pixel 9 Pro and OnePlus 13.
– **Shutter Delay:** A persistent lag when activating the shutter button has disappointed users, signaling a need for software enhancements.
– **Low-Light Performance:** While competent, the S24 Ultra’s low-light photography does not measure up to its competitors, especially Google’s Pixel series.
Despite these drawbacks, the phone excels in video recording and portrait shots, securing its status as a formidable player in the Android camera landscape.
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### **Looking Forward: The Galaxy S25 Ultra**
With the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s launch on January 22, 2025, just around the corner, excitement is mounting for Samsung’s next flagship. Early speculations hint at considerable advancements, including:
– **Display Improvements:** Addressing the mura effect and brightness concerns.
– **Camera Enhancements:** Enhanced motion capture and minimized shutter lag.
– **Design Modifications:** Rounded corners and entirely flat sides for a more refined look.
