Samsung stuck with a familiar look in the Galaxy S23 Ultra, but it’s what is underneath that counts and it pushes the phone’s camera forward as a tougher competitor.

Keeping the same look was a gamble, given how much time the company spent talking about camera performance when launching the device. The previous model took a deliberate approach toward incremental improvements, whereas things feel somewhat fresher in this phone. It’s not the gimmicky stuff that makes the difference, it’s the smarter focus and improved computation elevating the camera to a more dependable shooter.

The results demonstrate the effectiveness of several aspects, such as enhancements that enhance what is already one of the most adaptable mobile photography sets. However, some areas require improvement, and you may notice a few significant points with your own eyes.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Design and Build

The new phone is more comfortable to use when taking pictures than its previous model, thanks to its flatter display. Although the screen is not entirely flat yet, it is gradually moving in that direction, which corrects a design flaw that I personally disliked from the beginning. Despite this improvement, the phone remains aesthetically pleasing. Despite the addition of Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection, the 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2x display maintains its vividness, even though no real modifications have been made.

Samsung has kept the same attractive and satisfying matte finish on its phone, showing that they are consistent with what works. Despite this, the device is thicker due to needing space for both the S Pen and enlarged image sensors. It may be difficult to achieve considering the limited space available, but it makes me wonder if Samsung could have made it slimmer. It has been suggested that a supplementary button be added to the side of the phone, which could serve as a physical camera shutter. Given the manner in which the phone is designed and how comfortably it fits into one's hand, this addition would feel extremely organic to users.

In essence, the Galaxy S23 Ultra can be regarded as a revamped version of the Galaxy Note. Although it shares similarities in appearance and texture, it has undergone enhancements in other aspects. The updated Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, enhanced GPU performance, and innovative cooling system work seamlessly together to provide a superb experience when capturing and editing media. Images and footage.

I didn't expect the system files to occupy such a significant amount of storage space. In total, the phone uses an unreasonable 60GB of storage right from the start. Samsung hasn't provided a clear explanation yet, but I presume it's due to various factors combined. All versions of the S23 Ultra come with Android and Samsung's One UI design, as well as preinstalled Google and Microsoft apps by Samsung. This is likely why the phone's base model has a storage capacity of 256GB.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Camera Features

As Samsung adds higher pixel counts with the introduction of 200-megapixel and 50-megapixel shooting modes, they are facing storage issues. Furthermore, enabling Expert RAW at 50-megapixels has greatly expanded the capabilities of the device as compared to the previous limit of 12-megapixels. However, larger file size is also causing storage concerns. It is important to have sufficient storage space while using Samsung's Galaxy S23 Ultra, especially since it is being advertised as a gaming device that can accommodate large mobile games.

previous models. The ISOCELL HP2 also utilizes a new technology called ChameleonCell which adjusts the charge conversion gain based on the environment, resulting in improved image quality in both high and low lighting situations. Samsung has integrated their newest 200-megapixel ISOCELL HP2 image sensor in the rear camera array of this device. This sensor has the ability to use 4×4 pixel binning, allowing it to shoot at varying resolutions and making it a more versatile option than previous models that featured the ISOCELL HM3. Additionally, Samsung has introduced a new technology called ChameleonCell which automatically adjusts the charge conversion gain depending on lighting conditions, leading to better image quality in all scenarios. Reworded: The upcoming Galaxy S22 Ultra phone.

Samsung's camera has a wide-angle lens with a 200-megapixel resolution (which is equivalent to a 23mm lens) and an aperture of f/1.7. However, by default, it takes photos at 12.5 megapixels. Samsung used Sony's IMX564 sensor for the ultra-wide lens, which has a 12-megapixel resolution and is equivalent to a 13mm lens with an f/2.2 aperture. Samsung didn't make many hardware changes beyond this alteration. The camera still features two telephoto lenses as well. The camera has two telephoto lenses - one with 10 megapixels and a 70mm equivalent focal length of f/2.4, and the other with a periscope design, 10 megapixels, and an equivalent focal length of 230mm with an f/4.9 aperture. Both lenses utilize Sony IMX754 sensors. All lenses are equipped with optical image stabilization, except for the ultra-wide lens.

If you enjoy taking selfies, the latest camera with a 12-megapixel resolution (equivalent to 26mm and f/2.2) provides a new experience. Additionally, the S Pen can act as a remote control for the camera, although its gesture controls can be unreliable when attempting to access certain camera features. The pen is seamlessly integrated into the device. Initially, I encountered an issue where the S Pen feature was not functional in my device. As a result, I had to access the S Pen settings and manually turn on the feature. It is important to note that a similar action is required for enabling the pen to perform similarly in Expert RAW mode.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Software Features

access the app during my hands-on time with the phone, so I couldn't test its features. Upon seeing the Galaxy S23 Ultra prior to its official unveiling, I initially believed that Expert RAW was a feature integrated into the device's camera application. However, this was only partially accurate - while Expert RAW does exist as an app on its own, it also has a shortcut within the camera application. Unfortunately, Samsung did not allow me to access this app during my trial period with the phone, so I was unable to explore and test its capabilities. To locate it, I always have to go back to the "More" section of the camera app since I had to forcefully drag and drop it into the menu bar.

Samsung was fully committed to enhancing image quality, which means there are other notable features available as well. The introduction of the Adaptive Pixel function on the previous S22 Ultra allowed for a combination of 108-megapixel and pixel-binned 12-megapixel shots. By doing so, it produced a higher detailed image that combined the benefits of both sizes. The S23 Ultra shares the same idea of combining pixels as binned pixels to capture light, but in this model, there are now more and bigger pixels available to use.

camera's megapixel settings, but also with the way images are processed by its AI. Samsung has made improvements to image processing and manual controls for photography in its latest camera model. This includes introducing a 50-megapixel option as well as refining the use of AI technology. Not only does this offer Pro-level options for taking pictures and videos, it also includes Expert RAW format and the ability to link with Adobe Lightroom. Additionally, there are new features like Astrophotography and Multiple Exposure, providing a wide range of powerful tools to utilize.

Samsung attempted to tackle the problem of slow focusing, which was persistent in their previous models. To improve results, they introduced a laser autofocus system that measures light and distance but also utilized software optimization to achieve faster locking on.

Samsung has a hidden feature that they rarely mention, which involves filters. Although some people may not like using them, there is a growing community around them through the Galaxy Store. You can access this by tapping the filter icon located in the upper right corner of the camera app. From there, you can see the typical preset options and also add your own filters by tapping on the plus symbol. You have the option to either download content from others or make your own.

There are not many, but the majority of them are available for free downloading. Generating your own is simple, as you can choose any picture already stored on your device to utilize as a pattern.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Image Quality

Main Camera

Samsung received a lot of attention for their 200-megapixel sensor, but they also emphasized their ability to capture great photos in low light with "Nightography." Both aspects showed improvement, and I was particularly impressed with the amount of detail the 200-megapixel shot was able to capture. Particularly when examining individual pixels in detail, the difference is more apparent. Although it still performs better in well-lit situations, I believe that the new sensor shows an obvious enhancement in both overall image arrangement and processing compared to its predecessor with 108 megapixels.

details in shadowed areas. However, this decision entails some trade-offs in terms of image sharpness, as shooting at lower resolutions tends to produce slightly soft images. Therefore, it is crucial to choose the appropriate settings based on the specific conditions and desired outcome of the shot. In low light conditions, capturing photos at maximum resolution can lead to the occurrence of disruptive background noise during post-processing. To avoid this issue, I chose to take my shots at either 50 or 12 megapixels as an experimental approach. By doing so, I was able to achieve a better dynamic range by being more mindful of bright light sources and preserving details in darker areas. Nevertheless, since lower resolution produces less sharp images, there may be some compromises that need to be considered when determining the optimal camera settings for a shoot based on specific circumstances and desired results. with more contrast in brighter environments and less in low light conditions, indicating a broader range for the onboard HDR feature. The phone's white balance also affects this, and it is a habit carried over from its previous model to shoot with higher contrast in brighter settings. The tones can be colder or warmer based on your location.

impression that the Galaxy S23 Ultra, although having toned down its over-saturation, still prioritizes vibrant colors. It has the ability to enhance the intensity of blues even when viewed amidst cloudy conditions. While it does strive for a more natural color representation compared to previous models, images captured with this phone have a higher chance of appearing more vivid and dynamic compared to other smartphones. Disabling the Scene Optimizer did not improve the situation, but it was good to see that Samsung used a gentler technique for enhancing the image.

appearance of the image was rather strange and unexpected. Despite this, the app does have some useful features such as the exposure slider which can help improve photo quality even in low light situations. The camera application tends to excessively brighten when it focuses, requiring me to frequently adjust the exposure slider in order to correct it. This is particularly necessary when using Night mode to take better pictures. Even with Night mode, there are occasions where unusual results may occur, as happened with a close-up photo of the Golden Gate Bridge that ended up with cartoonish characteristics that were both odd and unanticipated. Nevertheless, despite these drawbacks, the app provides some helpful functions like the exposure slider that contribute positively to photo quality, especially under low-light conditions. The outcomes were surprising, but they also illustrated the variations in the quality of photographs captured in low-light conditions by different lenses.

Ultra-wide and Telephoto

believed it would be, while the main 50-megapixel sensor continues to deliver excellent results. The supporting lenses may be newer, but in my opinion, it is the software that played a crucial role in making them reliable. I was pleasantly surprised with the quality of some photos taken using the 10x periscope lens and even when utilizing the hybrid mode for zooming up to 30x. Contrary to my expectations, the 3x telephoto lens provided better results than I anticipated. The primary 50-megapixel sensor maintained its excellent performance as well. In many cases, Space Zoom is as predicted. Despite the option of 100x hybrid zoom, I found that taking photos at 200 megapixels and then cropping produced better results. However, apart from using it to secretly observe individuals or for examining distant objects more closely, I still consider Space Zoom to be nothing more than a novelty feature.

Although the ultra-wide doesn't appear to be exceptionally remarkable, there has been some enhancement with it. The edges don't deteriorate as much this time and with a 120-degree field of view, it can capture a lot within a single frame. The quality in low-light conditions is decent and it can prove to be reliable for making videos for different situations. All of these lenses are compatible with Pro and Expert RAW formats, but for the latter, they only support 12-megapixel images.

Expert RAW and Pro Mode

Samsung has rectified an imprudent error in the former phone by incorporating Expert RAW into the camera app, which simplifies the process of downloading and installing it from there rather than searching for it in the Galaxy Store. The sole task left is to permit everyone to append it to the menu bar.

opportunity to create your own custom preset for your specific photography needs. Additionally, the app offers a live histogram and focus peaking tools which can be immensely helpful in ensuring that your shots are properly focused and exposed. So, regardless of your level of photography experience or expertise, this mode is definitely worth checking out. This feature is definitely worth exploring by all types of photographers due to its 16-bit RAW capture and useful tools. By tapping on the slider icon, you can access two presets for "Night Sky" and "Night Long Exposure". Furthermore, you can create your own customized preset by tapping the plus icon according to your unique photography requirements. Furthermore, the app also provides essential features like live histogram and focus peaking that can assist in accurately focusing and exposing the images being captured. Thus, whether you are an amateur or a professional photographer, it is highly recommended that you make use of this mode. have the ability to craft your custom settings by selecting specific manual controls. However, it's worth noting that the preset won't retain your previously selected resolution, which could lead to unintentional changes if you don't remember which setting you had previously chosen. Additionally, this may be a relevant factor for some users. One can choose to use a compressed high-efficiency format while shooting in RAW to conserve storage space.

Samsung provides a feature that allows the Galaxy S23 Ultra to connect wirelessly with a Galaxy laptop or tablet for seamless transfer of images as they are captured. This makes for a handy setup when on location, but it is essential to ensure that both devices are logged into the same Samsung account and have Quick Share enabled on the laptop. To ensure proper functioning, the mobile device or tablet display has to remain active. Currently, Expert RAW mode is exclusively compatible with this feature, unlike other modes. Similarly, in Lightroom integration, a Lightroom icon will appear on preview screen upon taking a picture. This facilitates instant transfer of the image to the mobile application.

n Expert RAW, there are two features called Astrophotography and Multiple Exposure, both with a default setting of 12-megapixels. Although you can use Astrophotography whenever you want, keep in mind that it requires at least four minutes of exposure time. If your surroundings have light pollution, the outcome may not be great. During my experience with the S23 Ultra, I had to face both the hustle and bustle of city life as well as overcast skies, which prevented me from forming a definitive opinion on its quality.

Multiple Exposure may seem like a trick, but I appreciate the opportunity to try new things it provides. I gained a better understanding of how it works after seeing it before the phone's release. Essentially, you can take continuous shots of a subject to capture multiple images in one frame or use manual controls. The technique involves placing different elements captured in separate shots on top of each other. An example of its success was demonstrated by filming fast cars and superimposing them onto a carpet.

focusing on the most prominent feature, which may not necessarily be what the user wants to highlight. However, it can potentially produce pleasing outcomes when used on brick walls or by superimposing a portrait onto a textured surface. Nevertheless, its reliability suffers as the software tends to remove what it perceives as the primary object and frequently emphasizes arbitrary aspects that do not align with the user's intentions. Believing that you have taken photos in a vertical position, even when you have actually taken them horizontally, is a common occurrence. Whenever I superimposed the pictures, the upper layer would always be in portrait mode, but the final image would be in landscape mode.

Although lacking in some additional functions, the Pro mode remains one of the top modes available on the S23 Ultra. It allows you to capture 50-megapixel RAW images and zoom in for up to 6 times by tapping the W icon and pinching-to-zoom. Additionally, you can also shoot with a 12-megapixel resolution. Together with the other lenses located in the back and front.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Video Features

this, but it is important to keep in mind that the impressive low-light video capabilities of the Galaxy S23 Ultra were advertised with the help of prestigious directors like Ridley Scott and Na-Hong-Jin. Although these features are commendable, it must be considered that achieving similar results may require access to the same level of technology and expertise used by the filmmakers. While recognizing the intention of this marketing strategy, it is essential to approach these claims with a critical eye. It's advisable to be skeptical about it.

Anyway, there is significant promise in the camera features. With both the standard video mode and Pro Video, users have a wealth of useful tools at their fingertips, such as the ability to record 4K video at 24 frames per second and with a 21:9 aspect ratio. Furthermore, image stabilization is top-notch, and tracking autofocus works respectably well. Even low-light and night scenes are handled rather effectively. Video can effectively display a wide range of dynamic visuals, but it may require some experimentation with exposure compensation to achieve the desired results.

Additionally, there are six video-focused modes available, including Portrait Video, Director's View, Single Take, Super Slo-Mo, Slow Motion, and Hyperlapse.

Samsung's Galaxy S23 Ultra represents yet another advancement in technology.

Samsung made a few attempts to innovate with the Galaxy S23 Ultra, which may not be disappointing and have promising features. The most noteworthy aspect is the software improvements that lead to better quality pictures in general. Additionally, there is a particular focus on RAW shooting and an emphasis on expert-level RAW photography. For those who enjoy mobile shooting games and desire more, this is a positive development. There are several reasons that make this shooting game remarkable, and Samsung should be attentive to enhancing it through software upgrades.

The S Pen serves as a great remote shutter, but it is especially beneficial for detailed editing in apps like Lightroom. It's a valuable tool to have on a phone because precise edits can be difficult to achieve using just your finger on a smaller screen.

Are There Alternatives?

Although you may contemplate purchasing the Galaxy S22 Ultra, it seems as though there is a setback with the Expert RAW feature being restricted to only 12-megapixels. This lower limit impacts edits and cropping. On the other hand, Samsung has made advancements in their software and autofocus technologies.

The Google Pixel 7 Pro remains a top-performing phone for computing software, despite the company's decision not to allow full-resolution manual or RAW shooting. In comparison, the Vivo X90 Pro and Xiaomi 13 Pro have bigger Type 1 image sensors and better partnerships with established photography brands like Zeiss. If you prefer using Android, the new Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is highly recommended due to its cutting-edge technology and features. Alternatively, if you prefer Apple products and iOS, the iPhone 14 Pro is a good option to consider. Both of these devices are likely to have a significant impact on the market.

Should You Buy It?

It is quite a high demand to ask for when the initial cost of the phone is $1200. However, besides its remarkable camera, there are many features that make this phone desirable, hence it ultimately depends on where you believe its worth lies. Undoubtedly, it will be among the top phones in 2023.