The upcoming Galaxy S24 Ultra is ditching the 10x optical zoom lens but is expected to deliver better zoom photos, according to a reliable leaker. This improvement is likely due to advancements in AI and computational photography, which are becoming increasingly important in enhancing smartphone camera capabilities. Samsung is teasing AI as a major feature for its next Unpacked event, hinting at significant camera improvements across the board. The Galaxy S24 series is set to launch on January 17, with pre-orders already open.
Samsung has teased new AI-powered camera features for the upcoming Galaxy S24 Ultra, including an advanced zoom capability and a unique "object zoom" effect, despite earlier concerns of a downgrade from the S23 Ultra's camera. The new 5x optical telephoto lens will boast a higher 50-megapixel resolution, with AI and digital zoom compensating for the reduced magnification compared to the S23 Ultra's 10x lens. These features are part of Samsung's Eureka AI software, which may require cloud processing and a Samsung account. The Galaxy S24 Ultra is expected to outperform its predecessor in zoom quality, with further improvements possible before its launch on January 17.
Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo predicts that the iPhone 17 will feature a significant camera upgrade with a 24-megapixel front-facing camera and a six-element lens, promising improved image quality and low-light performance. This follows the consistent 12-megapixel camera in previous models. Additionally, the iPhone 17 Pro is expected to introduce under-panel Face ID technology, potentially reducing the size of the Dynamic Island, with future models in 2027 moving towards under-display cameras for a full-screen design.
Samsung is gearing up to release its Galaxy S24 series, which is rumored to include a new AI Photo Editor tool called Generative Edit, similar to Google Pixel 8's Magic Eraser. This feature is expected to allow users to remove and move objects in photos, as well as generate and fill empty spaces, enhancing the photo editing capabilities on the Galaxy S24 devices. However, it will require a Samsung account and an active internet connection, indicating reliance on cloud processing.
Samsung is reportedly developing a new camera sensor with integrated on-sensor AI, aiming to enhance smartphone photography by reducing latency, improving image quality, and lowering power consumption. This technology, which includes features like face and object recognition, is part of a broader race in AI advancements among tech companies. While it's not expected to debut in the immediate next generation of Samsung phones, such as the Galaxy S24 series, the innovation signals a significant step in the competition with industry leaders like Sony and SK Hynix, who are also focusing on AI-centric product development.
