In the world of smartphones, where innovation and performance battle for supremacy, Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra has emerged victorious in the 2024 race, securing the coveted title of ‘Smartphone of the Year’ by tech influencer Marques Brownlee, popularly known as MKBHD. The announcement, revealed in a recent video, has not only captivated tech enthusiasts but also positioned the Galaxy S24 Ultra as a benchmark in mobile technology. Samsung’s flagship model stood out for its all-round excellence. Brownlee highlighted its superior screen quality, powerful chip, long-lasting battery, advanced camera systems, user-friendly software, and impressive durability. He noted, “This phone is 2024 Scottie Scheffler—It’s not making a ton of headlines for any one flashy thing or any one bad thing. It’s just so good.”
A Tough Year for Competitors
While Samsung basks in the glory of its flagship device, the competition remains fierce, particularly with Apple and Huawei hot on its heels. Apple’s iPhone 16, though not clinching the top spot, was praised by Brownlee as the “most complete base iPhone they’ve ever made,” offering substantial value without the hefty price tag associated with its Pro version. Other notable mentions in the smartphone arena included the Vivo X200 Pro and Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold, each celebrated for their innovative features. However, it was Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold that took home the titles for ‘Best Foldable’ and ‘Most Improved’ device, underscoring Google’s strides in enhancing user experience and design.
Market Dynamics: Apple vs. Samsung
Despite Samsung’s triumph with the Galaxy S24 Ultra, Apple continues to be a dominant force in the global smartphone market. In 2024, Apple not only set a new sales record but also maintained an 18% market share alongside Samsung, according to Canalys. This intense rivalry is further accentuated by Samsung’s slight dip in market share by 3% year-over-year, in contrast to Apple’s 1% growth. The fierce competition extends beyond just these two tech giants. Huawei remains a significant player, challenging both Samsung and Apple, especially in markets outside the United States.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Samsung?
As Samsung prepares to launch the Galaxy S25 Ultra and S25+, expectations are high. The company’s Mobile Experience (MX) division, which generated approximately $21.6 billion in revenue by the third quarter of 2024, continues to be a major revenue driver. This upcoming release will be crucial for Samsung to maintain its competitive edge and market position.
Final Thoughts
In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of smartphones, the Galaxy S24 Ultra stands out as a paragon of innovation and comprehensive capability. As we look forward to what 2025 brings, one thing remains clear: the battle for smartphone supremacy is far from over, with each new model promising to push the boundaries of what’s possible in mobile technology. For those keen on staying updated with the latest in consumer technology, following detailed reviews and market trends will be essential. Samsung’s latest victory with the Galaxy S24 Ultra sets a high bar, but in the world of tech, today’s leader can quickly become tomorrow’s runner-up. The intrigue of what comes next remains one of the most compelling aspects of the tech industry.
