The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, the anticipated successor to the S23 Ultra, is generating considerable interest, especially in terms of camera improvements and potential drawbacks. While the prospect of a brighter display and the incorporation of titanium in its build is exciting, there’s a hint of disappointment with rumored camera downgrades.
However, these camera downgrades, oddly enough, have piqued my interest and sparked optimism about the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s photographic capabilities. It seems like Samsung has been attentive to user feedback, and this might translate into meaningful enhancements.
Now, let’s delve into a side-by-side comparison of the current Galaxy S23 Ultra and the expected features of the upcoming S24 Ultra. The Galaxy S23 Ultra boasts a primary camera equipped with a Samsung ISOCELL HP2 sensor boasting an impressive 200MP. However, it falls slightly short of a full 1-inch sensor, measuring at around 0.76 inches.
In the likely scenario for the Galaxy S24 Ultra, we anticipate a marginal upgrade with the utilization of a slightly newer version of the same sensor, namely the ISOCELL HP2SX. Although this may not constitute a substantial leap, it signifies a subtle refinement in camera technology.
The Galaxy S24 Ultra’s 3x optical zoom telephoto camera, rumored to remain unchanged, relies on a small 10MP sensor. Unfortunately, this sensor is significantly smaller than the main sensor and lacks improvement.
Surprisingly, the current S23 Ultra’s 10x zoom camera, sharing the same tiny sensor as the 3x zoom, might undergo a fascinating upgrade for the S24 Ultra. Rumors hint at doubling the sensor size for the longer zoom lens, albeit reducing the zoom length to 5x. Despite this trade-off, I find it promising, and I’ll explain why shortly.
Meanwhile, the other sensors, such as the 12MP ultra-wide and the 12MP selfie cameras on the S24 Ultra, appear to mirror those on the S23 Ultra. I’m perfectly fine with this decision; cameras are intricate devices, and the phone industry has shown that the best camera phones don’t always adopt the latest cameras.
Apple stuck with its 12MP sensor for years
Consistently delivering top-notch photos. The iPhone 14 Pro marked a resolution shift, but Apple’s mastery of the 12MP sensor yielded continual photo enhancements.
I appreciate Samsung’s decision to reuse sensors, especially the potent 200MP one. I believe there’s untapped potential in this sensor, and I welcome Samsung’s focus on refining image processing, as rumored.
The Galaxy S24 Ultra’s camera evolution emphasizes changes in image processing and post-editing. Though AI’s role is uncertain, leakers hint at Samsung embracing more realistic photo processing, bringing relief to Samsung enthusiasts.
While Samsung’s photos are known for their vibrant appeal, the S24 aims for a balance. The shift towards more realistic processing is a welcomed change, steering away from oversaturation that can make images seem overly artificial.
Unlike the cool and impersonal vibe of Apple photos, the prospect of “realistic” Samsung pictures intrigues me. It’s a departure from the overly vibrant, ensuring a more authentic visual experience.
AI’s impact on the Galaxy S24 Ultra camera extends beyond moon photos.
Samsung’s existing scene optimizer software selects modes and settings based on what’s being captured. Integrating AI, essentially employing machine learning logic, could significantly enhance scene optimization.
Samsung faced criticism for its aggressive use of AI in moon photography on the Galaxy S23 Ultra. While it excels, questions arise about the authenticity of added details. Future advancements in AI technology could provide more dramatic yet accurate enhancements.
The AI Moon phenomenon might expand to diverse subjects. Improved machine learning tools could recognize intricate subjects like Mount Rainier or the Statue of Liberty, ensuring more natural and detailed photos. The potential extends to everyday subjects, like pizza, promising an enhanced visual experience.
However, user control is crucial. Hopefully, Samsung will allow users to disable AI enhancements for those seeking a more realistic photographic approach. Despite concerns about zoom lengths and older parts, the Galaxy S24 Ultra seems poised to address critiques and offer even more photography options, building on the success of the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
