itel S24: An Affordable Smartphone with Impressive Features in 2024
As 2024 unfolds, itel continues to impress smartphone enthusiasts with its innovation and affordability. Following the introduction of its predecessors, the itel S23, the company has unveiled the itel S24, marking another significant addition to the budget smartphone arena in India. With a launch price of just Rs 10,999, the itel S24 is positioned to compete against some well-established players in the market.
Key Highlights of the itel S24
The itel S24 shines with several enhancements over its predecessor, focusing on user experience and performance. Noteworthy advancements include:
- Upgraded Display: A sleek hole-punch cutout replaces the previous waterdrop notch, offering a modern aesthetic.
- Enhanced Camera System: Retaining the popular 108-megapixel main rear camera, the S24 aims to deliver stunning images.
- Faster Processor: The MediaTek Helio G91 processor elevates performance levels, promising smoother multitasking and enhanced gaming capabilities.
- Color-Changing Panel: The unique color-changing feature returns, allowing the device to shift from white to pink when exposed to sunlight.
- Battery Life and Charging: A robust 5000mAh battery with 18W charging ensures longevity and convenience.
Specifications and Variants
Users can choose the itel S24 in a single variant that boasts 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage for Rs 9,999. The device is available in two elegant color options: Dawn White and Starry Black, with the white variant showcasing its stunning color-changing capability.
The retail package includes:
- The smartphone itself
- An 18W charging brick and cable
- A durable TPU case
- A user manual
Itel also offers a one-time free screen replacement within the first 100 days of purchase, providing additional peace of mind for buyers.
Design and Build Quality
The itel S24 reflects a thoughtful design approach, weighing in at 192 grams with a thickness of 8.3mm. The distribution of weight across the device makes it feel surprisingly light in hand despite its build. The circular camera island on the back, adorned with a golden ring, gives the phone a distinguished look.
Display Performance
Featuring a 6.6-inch HD+ IPS display with a resolution of 720 x 1612 pixels, the screen supports a refresh rate of 90Hz. Although an AMOLED panel would have been preferable, the display performs admirably under various conditions. Brightness levels up to 480 nits enable decent viewing indoors, though outdoor visibility can be challenging in direct sunlight.
Improved User Interface
The itel S24 operates on a custom skin based on Android 13. Users may encounter some bloatware, but adapting to the UI is generally straightforward, especially for those familiar with previous itel devices. The inclusion of a Dynamic Bar feature, reminiscent of Apple’s Dynamic Island, notifies users of important alerts and animations, enhancing the overall interaction with the device.
Performance and Connectivity
Powered by the MediaTek Helio G91 chipset, the itel S24 is built on a 12nm process, which promises efficient performance suitable for everyday tasks and light gaming. With 8GB of RAM and support for virtual memory expansion up to 16GB, users can expect smooth operation, reducing lag during app usage.
Photography Capabilities
The standout feature of the itel S24 is undoubtedly its camera system, featuring a 108-megapixel Samsung HM6 ISOCELL sensor with electronic image stabilization (EIS). Even in challenging lighting, the main camera produces impressive images that are social media-ready. A companion QVGA depth sensor and an 8-megapixel front-facing camera offer versatility for photography enthusiasts.
Battery Life and Charging Speed
The device is equipped with a 5000mAh battery that supports 18W charging. While the durability of the battery should comfortably last a day with normal use, the charging time is approximately two hours, making it convenient to recharge on the go.
Conclusion
Overall, the itel S24 presents an impressive array of features at a budget-friendly price of Rs 9,999. With its standout elements such as a vibrant color-changing panel, a top-tier 108-megapixel camera, and solid performance metrics, this smartphone is well-equipped to compete in the crowded budget segment. Although my time with the device has been brief, the initial impressions suggest that the itel S24 is an excellent choice for consumers seeking a compelling smartphone experience without breaking the bank.