Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Scratching Off Apple’s Problems
Samsung has the chance to make significant improvements with the Galaxy S24 series, from the selection of materials to pricing adjustments.
Unpacked, similar to the iPhone 15 event, has the power to fix Apple’s mistakes.
We’re switching to titanium! 🌪️ The most premium model is getting a $100 price bump! 📈 We’re putting a stop to leather cases! 🚫💼
Whether I was referring to Apple’s iPhone 15 event from last September or this week’s Samsung Unpacked, the above conditions would still apply. 😏
Also: Every product Samsung announced at Unpacked 2024
That’s not a bad thing per se; I’m actually a fan of Samsung’s similar thinking of material choice and care for the planet’s wellbeing, and I expect other phone makers to follow suit in 2024. The problem is that we’ve seen this story before, and the ending was not the happiest. Let me explain. 📚
Coat-gate and FineWoven case 🧥🔍
When Apple launched the iPhone 15 Pro with its titanium frame, it was first met with hurrahs, followed by puzzlement when users began to realize how easily the physical vapor deposition or PVD coating scratched off. If you used any iPhone not colored in Natural Titanium without a case, it was basically guaranteed that the coating would quickly show wear and tear, revealing the lighter titanium material underneath. At one point, users only considered the Natural colorway as a means to avoid any cosmetic issues.
Of course, the PVD layering is not completely at fault here. It’s a highly scratch-prone substance to begin with. Instead, I’d also blame the darker-colored frames that Apple opted for. Remember that. 🧐
Review: iPhone 15 Pro: Coming from iPhone 12 Pro or earlier? This upgrade will wow you
Then there’s the FineWoven case, Apple’s alternative to its leather accessories, made with sustainable materials but similarly priced at $59 a pop. The problem here was not so much the idea or meaning behind the product but rather the execution. ENBLE’s Jason Hiner went hands-on with the case shortly after the iPhone 15 keynote and was left wanting more. 😔
“The back of the case felt like it was made of inexpensive upholstery fabric and the sides weren’t as grippy as I’d like to keep the phone from slipping out of my hand,” he remarked. Things escalated when Jason unboxed the case on camera and realized that it was easy to leave scratch marks on the accessory (pictured above) and it was nearly impossible to restore or rub them off.
Scratching off Apple’s problems ✨
All that is to say, with the Galaxy S24 Ultra, Samsung can right Apple’s wrongs – and it’s already gotten off on the right foot. One thing I noticed during my pre-Unpacked demo was the company’s choice of frame colors. Besides Titanium Black, every other colorway was suited with a light-toned side frame. That includes the hero color, Titanium Violet, pictured below.
Even on the darker Titanium Violet color, Samsung opted for a gold trim on the sides. Coincidence or pure genius? 🤔
By applying a lighter paint over the titanium material, I’m hopeful that scratches will be less distinctive on the Galaxy S24 Ultra than on the iPhone 15 Pro. Of course, only time will tell, and Jason Hiner will be kicking the tires with the phone over the coming weeks, so stay tuned for the review.
Lastly, instead of replacing its genuine leather cases with something that’s the polar opposite, Samsung is now offering a new vegan leather case for the Galaxy S24 series. While it’s likely not as sustainable to produce as Apple’s FineWoven accessory, the company does note that every vegan leather case is made with at least 30% post-consumer recycled content and they’re built to last.
Q&A: Answering Your Burning Questions! 🔥🔥🔥
1. Will the Galaxy S24 Ultra still have a glass back like its predecessor? Yes, the Galaxy S24 Ultra will still have a glass back, which is a premium choice for smartphones and provides a sleek and modern look. The focus here is on the frame and the material used for it.
2. Is titanium really a better choice for phone frames? Titanium is known for its strength, durability, and lightweight properties, making it an excellent choice for phone frames. It provides a premium feel and offers better resistance against scratches and dings compared to other materials like aluminum.
3. What are the benefits of using a vegan leather case? Vegan leather cases are an ethical and sustainable alternative to genuine leather cases. They are made with synthetic materials that mimic the look and feel of real leather without causing harm to animals. Additionally, many vegan leather cases are made with recycled materials, further reducing their environmental impact.
4. How does the Galaxy S24 Ultra compare to the iPhone 15 Pro? While both phones offer premium features and cutting-edge technology, they have their distinct strengths. The Galaxy S24 Ultra aims to address some of the shortcomings seen in the iPhone 15 Pro, such as the potential for frame scratching and the quality of alternative cases. It offers a light-toned frame and a vegan leather case option, which could mitigate these issues.
The Future of Premium Smartphones 💫
The choice of materials and the attention to detail in smartphone design are crucial factors for consumers looking for premium devices. Companies like Samsung and Apple continue to push boundaries and learn from past mistakes to offer the best possible experience for their users.
As we move forward, we can expect further innovations and improvements in smartphone materials, construction, and durability. Manufacturers will likely explore new materials and techniques to enhance both the aesthetics and durability of their products.
In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra appears to be tackling the challenges faced by its competitors head-on. By considering the flaws in previous devices and making conscious material choices, Samsung aims to offer an improved user experience. 👏📱
Reference links: – Every product Samsung announced at Unpacked 2024 – Best iPhone deals: Save on the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro Max – Turn off the camera shutter sound on your Android phone – iPhone 15 Pro: Coming from iPhone 12 Pro or earlier? This upgrade will wow you – Where to buy AirPods Pro 2: Cases, earbuds, and more – Hands-on with Apple’s FineWoven iPhone 15 Pro case: Charming keyboard – CES 2024 Day 2: Transparent TVs, LG’s OtterBox’s, Cactus Leather & Lockly Smart Locks
📢 What do you think about Samsung’s approach to materials and cases for the Galaxy S24 Ultra? Share your thoughts and let’s discuss in the comments below! And don’t forget to hit that share button to spread the word on social media. 📲💬💻
