With the Indian festive season sale approaching, Samsung has begun offering significant discounts on some of its products. One notable model is the 2023 flagship Galaxy S23 Ultra, which is seeing an appealing price reduction. But is it a smart purchase at this new price? Let’s explore.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Price Drop to Under Rs 80,000
The Galaxy S23 Ultra from Samsung is expected to be available for below Rs 80,000 during the Amazon Great Indian Festival sale. This represents a considerable decrease from its original launch price of Rs 124,999. Currently, the 12GB + 256GB variant is priced at 79,999 INR on Amazon, and customers can also benefit from an extra 5 percent cashback when using an Amazon ICICI credit card.
Features and Performance
This results in an overall discount of Rs 45,000. The Galaxy S23 Ultra comes in various color choices, including Cream, Green, and Phantom Black. Despite being over a year old, this device remains a leading flagship smartphone. It boasts a premium design, excellent camera capabilities, and outstanding performance. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC, it’s particularly well-suited for gamers.
The phone features impressive rear cameras, including a strong telephoto option. Known for its superior displays, Samsung has ensured that the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s screen is among the best available. Other key attributes include S Pen support, extended software updates, and dependable battery life. However, it might be wise to wait for the Amazon Great Indian Festival Sale to start, as there could be an even better offer. In July 2024, the Galaxy S23 Ultra was available for around Rs 75,000, suggesting that we might see a similar or even more attractive deal soon.
Earlier this month, Amazon India slashed the price of the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra to Rs 89,999 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage model. Now, the price has dropped even further to Rs. 84,999 (~$1,018), marking an all-time low.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Offer
Initially launched in February 2023 with a starting price of Rs 1,24,999 (~$1,497) for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage version, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is now available for just Rs. 84,999 on Amazon India. Additionally, buyers can opt for an EMI plan, starting at Rs 7,083 per month for a 12-month no-cost EMI option.
At this reduced price, the Galaxy S23 Ultra offers tremendous value. It features a powerful processor for seamless performance and top-notch cameras for stunning photo and video capture. Samsung has also committed to long-term software support, ensuring the Galaxy S23 Ultra will get updates at least until Android 17 in 2027.
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Specs
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra sports a 6.8-inch Quad HD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X Infinity-O display with a variable refresh rate ranging from 1 to 120Hz, and a peak brightness of 1750 nits. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy, it also includes vapor chamber cooling for efficient heat management.
Built with an Armor Aluminum frame and protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, the phone is designed for durability. It features an in-display Ultrasonic Fingerprint Scanner and runs on Android 13 with Samsung’s OneUI 5.1, with an update to Android 14-based One UI 6.1 available.
Camera and Additional Features
The rear camera array consists of a 200MP primary sensor with OIS, super HDR, and pixel enhancer, a 12MP Ultra Wide lens, a 10MP Telephoto lens with 3x zoom, a 10MP Periscope lens with 10x zoom, and a 3D ToF sensor. The front camera features a 12MP Dual Pixel sensor with AI object awareness. The phone supports 8K video recording at 30 fps with VDIS technology.
Other notable features include UWB capabilities, an IP68 rating, a 5000mAh battery with 45W fast charging, wireless charging, and an integrated S Pen Stylus.
Xiaomi recently unveiled the 14 Civi, a flagship smartphone that emphasizes its camera capabilities. Powered by the robust Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chip, this device aims to dominate the sub-Rs 50,000 market segment. However, there are notable alternatives from other brands that offer comparable or even superior specifications.
Rear Camera: 50MP (Primary) with OIS, 10MP (Telephoto) with OIS, 12MP (Ultrawide), 8K video recording
Front Camera: 12MP, 4K video recording
Chip: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4nm), Adreno 740 GPU
RAM/Storage: 8GB RAM, 128GB/256GB storage
Battery: 3,900 mAh with 25W wired, 15W wireless, 4.5W reverse wireless charging
OS: Android 13
Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC
The Galaxy S23 is a compelling alternative to the Xiaomi 14 Civi, featuring a more powerful chip and superior camera setup. While its 6.1-inch screen is slightly smaller, it still offers AMOLED technology with a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ support. However, Xiaomi’s peak brightness of 3000 nits outshines Samsung’s 1750 nits, making it better for outdoor visibility.
When it comes to performance, both the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 in the Xiaomi and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the Samsung are top-tier. However, the latter offers better GPU performance, ensuring a smoother gaming experience. The camera setups are robust on both, but the Galaxy S23’s ability to record 8K videos sets it apart.
Battery life is another area where the Xiaomi 14 Civi excels with its 4,700 mAh battery and 67W fast charging, compared to Samsung’s 3,900 mAh battery and 25W charging. Both support USB Type-C, but the Galaxy S23 offers faster data transfer speeds.
The OnePlus 11 remains a strong contender even a year after its release. Its larger screen and higher pixel density offer a superior viewing experience. Both the OnePlus 11 and Xiaomi 14 Civi support HDR10+ and a 120Hz refresh rate, but Xiaomi’s higher peak brightness provides better outdoor visibility.
The OnePlus 11’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset surpasses the Xiaomi’s Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, particularly in GPU performance, making it a better choice for gaming. The OnePlus 11 also offers UFS 4.0 storage in higher models, which enhances performance.
The camera setup on the OnePlus 11 is similar to Xiaomi’s but includes Hasselblad color tuning for better photos. The device supports 8K video recording, unlike the Xiaomi 14 Civi, which maxes out at 4K. The OnePlus 11’s 5,000 mAh battery supports 100W fast charging, making it superior in battery performance.
The Vivo X80 offers a solid spec sheet and is priced similarly to the Xiaomi 14 Civi. Its 6.78-inch AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and 1500 nits peak brightness is impressive, though it falls short of Xiaomi’s 3000 nits.
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9000 chip, the Vivo X80 performs comparably to the Xiaomi 14 Civi’s Snapdragon 8s Gen 3. The rear camera setup on the Vivo X80 includes a 50MP primary sensor with OIS, a 12MP telephoto lens, and a 12MP ultrawide sensor. It can record up to 4K videos, similar to the Xiaomi 14 Civi.
The OnePlus 12R is another strong alternative to the Xiaomi 14 Civi. Its 6.78-inch screen with 4500 nits peak brightness outshines Xiaomi’s display. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, it offers superior performance, especially for gaming.
The rear camera setup includes a 50MP primary sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro lens, capable of recording up to 4K videos. The 16MP front camera also supports 1080p video recording.
The OnePlus 12R’s 5,500 mAh battery and 100W fast charging make it a standout in battery performance.
Which smartphone do you think is the best alternative to the Xiaomi 14 Civi? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Samsung initiated the rollout of the OneUI 6.1 update for the Galaxy S23 series on March 28. Following this update, a number of users have experienced touch functionality issues on their devices. Interestingly, despite this problem, the S Pen continues to function properly, allowing users to operate their phones.
Touch Problem on Galaxy S23 Ultra with OneUI 6.1
Numerous Galaxy S23 Ultra owners have expressed their concerns on Samsung’s official community forums regarding touch-related problems. These users have highlighted that these issues began surfacing immediately after installing the update.
Varied User Experiences
It is important to note that not all devices are encountering the same touch-related issues. While some units exhibit a lack of responsiveness to certain touches, others are not registering touch inputs at all.
Some users have shared their experiences on different platforms, such as Reddit, indicating specific problems. For instance, one user mentioned that post OneUI 6.1 update, their Galaxy S23 Ultra responds to touch inputs, except for the initial one while swiping on the lock screen. In contrast, another user mentioned a complete unresponsiveness of their device to touch, seeking guidance on how to resolve this issue, particularly when the S Pen remains functional.
Widespread Reports and Potential Causes
Several users have voiced similar concerns about their S23 Ultra devices failing to respond to touch inputs while the S Pen continues to work as intended. Despite attempts to resolve the issue by restarting the phone, the problem persists. Additionally, there have been reports of issues with the under-display fingerprint sensor.
The exact percentage of affected devices remains unknown; however, the growing number of reports suggests a significant problem that cannot be overlooked by users. Some individuals experiencing these touch-related issues have noted that they previously replaced the screen with a non-Samsung component, indicating potential compatibility issues with third-party equipment.
Implications and Future Developments
As the situation unfolds, it raises questions about whether these problems are a result of hastily developed software updates or intentional measures by Samsung to restrict third-party components. The issue with the OneUI 6.1 update on the S23 series may signify a deliberate strategy rather than an unintended consequence of rushed development.
The resolution of these touch-related issues remains pending, awaiting an official response from Samsung. Further updates will be provided as new developments arise.
Google has introduced the innovative Ultra HDR technology alongside Android 14, a significant advancement for mobile photography. While some Android phone manufacturers have faced delays in implementing the Ultra HDR feature, the Samsung S24 Ultra stands out with its "Super HDR" feature.
Super HDR Exclusivity
The Galaxy S23 series will not feature the Super HDR technology, which Samsung introduced in collaboration with Google's Ultra HDR format. Initially available to Galaxy S24 users, Super HDR offers not only enhanced high dynamic range color viewing in photos but also improves colors in videos through unique proprietary algorithms.
Ultra HDR Advantages
The S24 Ultra showcases Google's Ultra HDR image format, which is saved in .jpg format. When viewed on an HDR screen, the image exhibits high dynamic range qualities, while on an SDR screen, the base image is displayed. An Ultra HDR image consists of a base image and an HDR gain map, ensuring that bright areas in the image appear vividly bright, while the base image is shown on SDR displays.
With the release of the One UI 6.1 update for the S23 series, Samsung extended the AI features found in the S24 series to the S23 line. However, the Super HDR feature will not be available to S23 users, meaning they will miss out on Samsung's exclusive image viewing algorithms for Super HDR.
After the recent debut of the Galaxy S24 Ultra, the previous flagship model, the Galaxy S23 Ultra, has witnessed a significant price slash in India. The starting price of the 12GB + 256GB variant has dropped from ₹1,24,999 to approximately ₹1,00,000. Currently, Flipkart is offering a substantial discount on the Galaxy S23 Ultra, priced at ₹89,999 for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage model, accompanied by additional discounts that can further reduce the price. Customers using specific credit cards can avail discounts ranging from ₹1500 to ₹5000 on their purchase.
Exclusive Discounts and Offers on the Galaxy S23 Ultra
Flipkart is currently selling the Galaxy S23 Ultra with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage for ₹89,999, along with various discounts that can be applied to lower the cost even more. By utilizing specific credit cards, customers can enjoy discounts ranging from ₹1500 to ₹5000 on their purchase.
Why Choose the Galaxy S23 Ultra Now
Is it worthwhile to opt for the Galaxy S23 Ultra over the newer Galaxy S24 Ultra? At its current price, the answer leans towards yes. While the Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts a more advanced Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, the performance margin compared to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in the S23 Ultra might not be significantly noticeable. Both devices feature similar camera hardware, with the S24 Ultra incorporating a larger 50MP sensor for its 5x Periscope camera, offering optical zoom instead of the digital zoom found in the S23 Ultra.
Future-Proofing with the Galaxy S23 Ultra
The Galaxy S24 Ultra brings exclusive AI-powered features through Samsung’s One UI 6.1, setting it apart from the S23 Ultra. However, Samsung recently announced that these features will soon be available for the Galaxy S23 series as well. With this upcoming integration, it could be an opportune moment to invest in the Galaxy S23 Ultra, securing access to Samsung’s latest features while enjoying cost savings.
Samsung Galaxy Ultra Days have arrived with significant discounts on the Galaxy S24 Ultra and Galaxy S23 Ultra smartphones. Those interested can now purchase the Galaxy S24 Ultra for a reduced price of Rs 49,999. This attractive offer is made possible by enhanced upgrade bonuses and discounts offered when exchanging old smartphones.
Discounts and Offers Overview
Samsung is currently providing discounts and exclusive deals on Galaxy Ultra smartphones until March 22nd. These discounts are available across all major e-retailers, including Amazon. Additionally, customers can benefit from a 24-month, no-cost EMI option when buying a new phone. Apart from the Galaxy S24 Ultra, there are discounts of up to Rs 12,000 available on the purchase of the Galaxy Watch 6.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Savings Breakdown
Potential buyers have the opportunity to receive an upgrade bonus of Rs 17,000 when exchanging a Galaxy S Series smartphone starting from the Galaxy S20 Series onwards. For other phone models, there is an exchange bonus of up to Rs 12,000. As a result, the final price for the Galaxy S24 Ultra could be as low as Rs 49,999.
Moreover, there is a bank cashback offer of Rs 6,000, although it may not be as beneficial if exchanging a Galaxy S Series smartphone. In cases where a bank discount is applicable, the maximum discount will be reduced to Rs 15,000.
Galaxy S23 Ultra Discount Details
Owners of Galaxy S Series smartphones are eligible for a Rs 13,000 upgrade bonus, while users with other phone models can receive a Rs 10,000 upgrade bonus. Customers can avail a discount of Rs 63,000 through the exchange process, along with an additional Rs 13,000 discount bonus. This brings the effective retail price of the smartphone down to Rs 33,999.
