Amidst a marketplace dominated by ever-growing smartphone sizes, the Samsung Galaxy S24 emerges as a beacon for fans of compact, yet powerful devices. With its launch, Samsung continues to challenge industry norms, positioning the S24 alongside competitors like the iPhone 15 and Google Pixel 8. This review dives deep into what makes the Galaxy S24 a formidable contender, especially in its striking Amber Yellow color variant, while also evaluating its performance, design, and new AI-driven features.
Design and Build: A Familiar, Yet Refined Aesthetic
The Samsung Galaxy S24, at first glance, mirrors its predecessor, the Galaxy S23, in design aesthetics, maintaining the aluminum-glass sandwich that users have come to appreciate. However, subtle refinements, such as a slightly curved aluminum frame and the use of Gorilla Glass Victus 2, both enhance user comfort and promise increased durability. Weighing in at 167 grams, its compact form factor not only facilitates one-handed use but also makes it a standout device for those prioritizing ergonomics without compromising on screen real estate. Despite its familiar look, the device’s build quality and design tweaks underscore Samsung’s commitment to refining user experience.
Performance and Specifications: Bold Moves with Exynos 2400
In a surprising shift, Samsung opts for its proprietary Exynos 2400 SoC over the more common Qualcomm chips seen in previous models. This decision represents a significant gamble, given the mixed reception of Samsung’s in-house chips in the past. Paired with up to 8GB LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB of UFS 4.0 storage, the Galaxy S24 aims to deliver top-tier performance. Initial impressions suggest a smooth and responsive user experience, although comprehensive benchmarks will be needed to fully assess the Exynos 2400’s competitiveness. Moreover, the device’s software, running Android 14 based OneUI 6.1, promises seven years of updates, highlighting Samsung’s long-term support for its flagship offering.
Innovative AI Features: Galaxy AI’s Prospective Impact
With AI being the industry’s new frontier, the Galaxy S24 introduces Galaxy AI, a suite of features designed to enhance user interaction. From object removal in images to real-time translation, these AI tools not only set the S24 apart from its predecessors but also align it with current technological trends. However, the limited free availability of these features until the end of 2025 raises questions about their long-term value. Despite this, the inclusion of Galaxy AI reflects Samsung’s ambition to lead in software innovation, potentially reshaping how users engage with their devices.
As the dust settles, the Samsung Galaxy S24 stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of compact smartphones. Its blend of high-end specifications, thoughtful design, and pioneering AI features positions it as a key player in 2024’s smartphone lineup. While the decision to pivot to Exynos silicon may raise eyebrows, it’s a clear signal of Samsung’s confidence in its technological capabilities. As users and enthusiasts alike explore the full extent of the Galaxy S24’s offerings, it’s clear that this device not only challenges the status quo but also sets new benchmarks for what compact smartphones can achieve.