As 2024 comes to a close, it's time to evaluate the prominent players in the tech industry, and Samsung certainly left a mark this year. Emerging as the leading smartphone manufacturer globally, Samsung celebrated notable successes with its midrange and flagship S series devices. However, the company's foray into the foldable phone market faced significant hurdles. Join us as we explore the highlights and pitfalls of Samsung's journey in 2024.
Highlight of the Year: Galaxy A16 and A16 5G
The Galaxy A16 and A16 5G, Samsung's affordable smartphones, garnered immense popularity due to their impressive features including high-quality displays, long-lasting batteries, and 50MP main cameras. With a starting price below €200, these devices have proven to be a hit across various markets.
Top Performer: Galaxy A55
Ranked as one of the most favored phones in Samsung's lineup, the Galaxy A55 offers flagship-like characteristics at an entry-level price point of around €320. This device features a 120Hz Super AMOLED display, a powerful 4nm chipset, and a robust 5,000mAh battery, along with water and dust resistance rated at IP67. Its capabilities and Samsung's commitment to four major Android updates have made it a standout choice in Europe and North America.
Strong Contenders: Galaxy S24 FE and S24+
The Galaxy S24 FE and S24+ have both capitalized on Samsung's expansive market reach. With similar specifications, they represent safe bets for consumers seeking high-performance devices along with the promise of seven years of OS updates, ensuring longevity for their investment.
Compact Success: Galaxy S24
Breaking the trend, the Galaxy S24 outsold the larger Plus model this year. This surge in popularity signals a revival of interest in compact smartphones, reinforcing Samsung's position in this niche market.
Innovative Winner: Galaxy Watch Ultra
The introduction of the Galaxy Watch Ultra provided fierce competition for Apple's offerings. With its rugged build and superior smartwatch experience, it stands out as a premier choice for Wear OS users seeking durability without sacrificing functionality.
Missed Opportunities: Galaxy Watch7 (No Classic)
Despite the success of the Ultra model, fans of the Galaxy Watch Classic lacked an upgraded option. The Galaxy Watch7 presented minimal enhancements over its predecessor, leaving many consumers unsatisfied and yearning for the beloved rotating bezel functionality.
Outstanding Performers: Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and S10+
On the tablet front, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra and S10+ solidified Samsung's position as a leader in slate shipments, second only to Apple. These tablets stand out for their exceptional Super AMOLED displays and support for the S Pen, offering versatility for users.
Challenges Ahead: Galaxy Z Fold6
Once the frontrunner in foldable technology, the Galaxy Z Fold6 faced stiff competition from rivals like the OnePlus Open and Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold, which boast superior features. Samsung's foldable lineup needs innovation to reclaim its market dominance moving into 2025.
Bright Spot: Galaxy Z Flip6
The Galaxy Z Flip6 distinguished itself from its predecessor with notable improvements in battery life and camera capabilities. Its appeal was further enhanced by relatively low competition in the flip-foldable segment, making it a preferred choice in multiple markets.
Crowning Achievement: Galaxy S24 Ultra
Consistently a top performer for Samsung, the Galaxy S24 Ultra was once again a standout in 2024. With the addition of a 50MP telephoto camera and an upgraded chipset, it secured its position as Samsung's most popular and profitable device, despite facing competition from Chinese manufacturers.
While this year saw significant success for Samsung, challenges loom ahead, especially within the foldable segment. A focus on innovation and keeping pace with competition will be crucial in the coming year.
