Introduction to the Samsung Galaxy S23 ultra
A year later, the Note that isn’t returns. The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra brings predictably minor upgrades – camera tweaks here and a new chipset there, mostly. However, the challenge lies in how much one can truly enhance the S22 Ultra in just a year. We’ll explore that question and assess whether the new Ultra can ignite excitement in ways beyond the spec sheet.
At the core of the Ultra is the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, crafted specifically for the Galaxies with higher clock rates than its competitors. The latest Qualcomm top-end chip also promises efficiency, offering some welcomed extra endurance.
The camera boasts a new 200MP sensor, a significant jump from the 108MP resolution of previous Ultras. The dual telephotos remain a standout feature, providing 10x optical zoom – a rarity outside of Samsung offerings. Notably, the 2023 Ultra retains its status as the only model in the lineup with an autofocusing ultrawide, emphasizing a unique advantage over the lesser S23s.
Design and build
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra boasts dimensions of 163.4×78.1×8.9mm and a weight of 234g. Its construction features a durable combination of Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front and back, along with an aluminum frame, ensuring a robust build. The device is equipped with IP68 certification, providing resistance against dust and water, allowing it to withstand submersion in up to 1.5m of water for 30 minutes. This design not only enhances the smartphone’s aesthetic appeal but also reinforces its durability, making it suitable for various environmental conditions.
Display
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra features a stunning 6.80-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a high 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support, and an impressive peak brightness of 1750 nits. Boasting a resolution of 1440×3088 pixels and a 19.3:9 aspect ratio, the screen delivers sharp visuals with a pixel density of 501ppi. The Always-on display feature ensures convenient access to key information. This combination of advanced display technologies provides users with a captivating viewing experience, making the Galaxy S23 Ultra an ideal choice for those who appreciate vibrant and detailed visuals on their mobile devices.
Processor and Performance
Powering the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is the advanced Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, built on a 4nm process. It features a potent octa-core configuration, comprising a high-performance Cortex-X3 core clocked at 3.36 GHz, two Cortex-A715 cores at 2.8 GHz, two Cortex-A710 cores at 2.8 GHz, and three Cortex-A510 cores at 2.0 GHz. The inclusion of the Adreno 740 GPU enhances graphical performance, ensuring smooth and responsive user experiences. This robust chipset not only provides cutting-edge processing power but also contributes to the device’s overall efficiency, delivering a seamless and powerful performance across various applications and tasks.⁷
Camera:
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra boasts various features, including an ultrasonic fingerprint reader embedded under the display for secure unlocking. It comes equipped with a versatile stylus featuring Bluetooth integration, accelerometer, and gyro functionalities. The device supports NFC technology, ensuring seamless connectivity and data exchange. Stereo speakers deliver immersive audio experiences, complemented by features like Samsung DeX and Wireless DeX for enhanced productivity. Bixby’s natural language commands and dictation further enhance user interaction. Additionally, the smartphone supports Samsung Pay, certified by Visa and MasterCard, for convenient and secure transactions. Ultra Wideband (UWB) support adds an extra layer of connectivity versatility.
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra incorporates a comprehensive array of sensors to enhance user experience. These include a light sensor, proximity sensor, accelerometer, barometer, compass, and gyroscope, collectively contributing to the device’s functionality. The ultrasonic fingerprint sensor is positioned on-screen, offering a secure and convenient method of unlocking the device. Users can benefit from the seamless integration of the ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, providing an additional layer of security for the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
Battery and Charging:
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra packs a robust 5000mAh battery, providing substantial power for extended usage. The device supports fast charging capabilities with a 45W wired charging option, boasting a remarkable 65% charge in just 30 minutes, as advertised. Additionally, it supports wireless charging standards like Qi and PMA, offering convenient cable-free charging solutions. Moreover, the device features 4.5W reverse wireless charging, allowing users to share their device’s power with other compatible devices. This comprehensive battery setup ensures a reliable and versatile charging experience for users on the go.
Connectivity and Other Features:
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE offers NFC connectivity and features like Dual-SIM support, IP68 water and dust resistance, an optical in-display fingerprint sensor. However, it lacks MST technology and a headphone jack. The available color options for the device include White, Graphite, Olive, and Lavender.
Samsung’s One UI 4, based on Android 12, introduces subtle changes without a radical redesign, maintaining a familiar interface for users transitioning from previous Samsung devices. While incorporating Android 12’s privacy indicators and minor UI adjustments, it lacks the extensive visual overhaul seen in Google’s Pixel phones. The user experience is user-friendly, especially for those accustomed to Samsung’s recent software iterations, presenting a more streamlined interface. However, Samsung’s persistent inclusion of its own versions of essential apps, such as the calendar, voice assistant, and keyboard, remains a drawback. Despite the availability of the Play Store and sideloading options, Samsung’s pre-loaded apps and integrations sometimes fall short of user expectations.
The attempt to promote Bixby alongside Google Assistant and occasional interference from Samsung’s keyboard may detract from the overall software experience, prompting users to explore alternative options for improved functionality.
Storage Options and other:
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra boasts advanced storage capabilities, featuring UFS 4.0 technology for swift data processing. With a substantial internal memory of 256 GB, users can enjoy ample space for applications, multimedia, and files. While the device does not support expandable memory, the inclusion of USB OTG (On-The-Go) ensures convenient connectivity for external storage devices. The user is left with up to 216 GB of available storage, providing a generous amount of room for personalized content and ensuring a seamless experience for Galaxy S23 Ultra users.
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra ensures robust connectivity with its comprehensive network features. Equipped with GPS and A-GPS, users can navigate seamlessly. The device supports VoLTE for enhanced voice communication. Wi-Fi capabilities include Wi-Fi Direct and Mobile Hotspot functionality, with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax) support at 5GHz, incorporating MIMO technology. The SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) values are Head: 1.12 W/kg and Body: 0.92 W/kg. Offering Dual SIM support (GSM+GSM), the Galaxy S23 Ultra accommodates 5G, 4G, 3G, and 2G networks in India. Additionally, NFC and Wi-Fi Calling features contribute to the device’s connectivity versatility.
Pricing and Offers :
- Explore enticing deals for the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra with varying storage configurations:
– Amazon.com presents the 256GB variant with 8GB RAM at $768.00.
– Amazon.in offers the 256GB model with an upgraded 12GB RAM at ₹82,990.
– For those seeking extensive storage, the 512GB version with 12GB RAM is available on Amazon.in at ₹97,999.
Uncover these competitive prices and more by selecting “SHOW ALL PRICES” to make an informed decision on your Samsung Galaxy S23 purchase.
Pros & cons:
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Samsung’s design prowess remains unparalleled in the industry.
– The display, although similar to the previous year, continues to be the best available.
– Impressive battery life, easily lasting well over a day on a full charge.
– The camera system captures stunning shots, offering users extensive creative control.
– Outstanding software support, setting a benchmark in the smartphone arena.
Cons:
– Not the device for those seeking an exciting glimpse into the future of smartphones.
– 45W charging lags behind competitors, limited to specific chargers.
– Usual bugs persist in Samsung’s camera, requiring attention.
