ANTICIPATED RELEASE AND COST OF SAMSUNG GALAXY S24 ULTRA
Set to potentially debut on January 17, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra could command a minimum price of $1,199.99 / £1,249 / AU$1,949. Speculation regarding the release date leans heavily towards January, particularly January 17, based on various sources and leaks.
Further substantiating this claim, another source mentions the same January 17 date, adding that pre-orders may commence on January 18, with shipments scheduled by January 30. However, February remains a plausible launch month, considering the precedent set by the Samsung Galaxy S23 series in February 2023.
Recent developments, such as the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra’s appearance in a certification database, reinforce the likelihood of an imminent launch, aligning with the typical pre-launch certification processes. Notably, a second certification confirms the device’s name, solidifying its expected debut in the initial months of 2024.
Turning attention to pricing, there’s speculation that the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra could surpass the cost of its predecessor, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, known for its starting price of $1,199.99 / £1,249 / AU$1,949. While precise pricing details are absent, a leak suggests Samsung might strive to maintain pricing consistency with the S23 series, offering relief to potential buyers concerned about a significant price hike.
SAMSUNG GALAXY S24 ULTRA: REVAMPED DESIGN AND IMPROVED DISPLAY
Leaked images of Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra cases and unofficial renders strongly indicate a design akin to the S23 Ultra, featuring slightly slimmer bezels, described as “one of the narrowest on any smartphone.” Notably, the device is expected to have titanium sides, a premium shift from the aluminum on the Galaxy S23 Ultra, aligning with the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Dimensions are reportedly 162.3 x 79 x 8.7mm, marginally smaller and lighter than its predecessor. Spy shots further emphasize the titanium construction and subtle design alterations. The color palette, leaked by Ross Young, includes black, gray, violet, and yellow, with potential exclusives in orange, light blue, and light green for Samsung’s online store.
On the display front, sources suggest a 6.8-inch screen, potentially reaching an impressive 2,500 nits of brightness, surpassing competitors like the Pixel 8 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max. This could make it the brightest smartphone screen globally. Another upgrade is a rumored 144Hz refresh rate, enhancing animations and scrolling. While the source lacks a solid track record, it adds a layer of excitement.
Furthermore, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra might pioneer the use of an advanced and power-efficient ‘M13’ display, potentially outclassing current Samsung models and aligning with the reported display technology for the iPhone 16 line. Another source supports this claim, hinting at M13 displays for other S24 models as well.
SAMSUNG GALAXY S24 ULTRA: CAMERA FEATURES AND DISCREPANCIES
Recent leaks regarding the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra’s cameras reveal some conflicting information. Notably, there’s speculation that the device might opt for a 5x optical zoom instead of the traditional 10x, a departure from Samsung’s established leadership in optical zoom.
Leaker Yogesh Brar provides insight into potential camera specifications, suggesting a 200MP main camera, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, a 50MP telephoto lens (likely offering 3x optical zoom), a 10MP periscope (possibly providing 5x optical zoom), and a 12MP front-facing camera. However, earlier leaks presented varying details, with some sources proposing a different configuration, including @UniverseIce hinting at a pair of 12MP snappers for telephoto shots.
Despite the uncertainties, reputable sources align on certain aspects, indicating a 50MP telephoto camera and a 12MP front-facing camera. Previous speculations around 3x and 10x zoom cameras with “minor improvements” to the latter also add to the complexity.
A contentious claim suggests the retention of 100x digital zoom despite a potential shift to 5x optical zoom. Another early leak proposed a significant 1-inch sensor for improved performance, although recent discussions cast doubt on this possibility.
While hardware upgrades remain ambiguous, software enhancements are anticipated, with Samsung seeking trademarks for AI photography modes like Magic Pixel, Flex Magic, and Flex Magic Pixel. These features, if implemented, could introduce innovative AI photography functionalities akin to Google’s Magic Eraser.