If you’ve been eyeing the samsung s24, this guide cuts through the noise. We explain what’s new, how Galaxy AI actually helps day to day, which model suits different Kiwis, and the pitfalls to avoid before you buy. You’ll also find a clear spec comparison, setup steps, and quick answers to common questions for New Zealand users.
What is
The samsung s24 refers to Samsung’s 2024 flagship phone family: Galaxy S24, Galaxy S24+, and Galaxy S24 Ultra. All three share slick designs, bright LTPO 1–120 Hz displays, long battery life, and a suite of Galaxy AI features built into One UI 6.1. The series focuses on useful smarts—faster search, translation on the fly, and photo editing that can actually rescue a shot—backed by serious hardware.
For New Zealand, the lineup supports local 5G on Spark, One NZ, and 2degrees, with eSIM available. Samsung promises seven years of Android OS upgrades and security patches on the S24 series, a standout commitment that matters if you keep phones for the long haul under the Consumer Guarantees Act umbrella.
How it works
Galaxy AI in plain English
On the samsung s24, AI runs partly on the phone and partly in the cloud. Tasks like summarising notes, refining tone in messages, instant slow‑mo video, and photo clean‑ups lean on powerful on‑device NPUs (Exynos 2400 on S24/S24+ in NZ; Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy on S24 Ultra). Heavier lifts can use secure cloud processing. You choose how much to send online via privacy settings; many tools work without a data connection.
- Circle to Search: Draw a circle on screen to identify or shop what you see. It’s absurdly handy for recipes, shoes, or places you spot on TikTok.
- Live Translate: Real‑time call and text translation, helpful for travel or chatting with overseas clients.
- Note Assist and Transcript Assist: Structure, summarise, and tag lengthy notes or voice memos.
- Generative Edit: Remove distractions, straighten horizons, or fill edges. It’s guided, so you don’t need pro skills.
- Super HDR previews: See what your photo will actually look like before pressing the shutter.
Performance and thermals
The samsung s24 series uses next‑gen chipsets with upgraded NPUs and GPU efficiency. In NZ, the S24 and S24+ typically use the Exynos 2400; the S24 Ultra uses Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy. Both platforms deliver smooth gaming, reliable thermals under load, and fast AI processing without cooking your hands.
Display and durability
All models feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X with adaptive 1–120 Hz refresh and up to 2,600‑nit peak brightness, so outdoor use in a bright Kiwi summer isn’t a problem. The S24 Ultra adds Gorilla Armor with lower reflectivity; the S24 and S24+ use Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Each phone is IP68 rated for water and dust, and the Ultra switches to a titanium frame for extra rigidity.
Cameras you’ll actually trust
- Galaxy S24/S24+: 50 MP main, 12 MP ultra‑wide, 10 MP 3x optical telephoto, 12 MP selfie.
- Galaxy S24 Ultra: 200 MP main, 12 MP ultra‑wide, 10 MP 3x telephoto, 50 MP 5x telephoto, 12 MP selfie.
Low‑light shots improve thanks to a larger main sensor on the Ultra and smarter processing across the range. Night portraits, 5x optical zoom (Ultra), and cleaner 30x digital zooms are all noticeable upgrades. Video quality benefits from better stabilisation and instant slow‑motion generation.
Connectivity in NZ
- 5G sub‑6 support across Spark, One NZ, and 2degrees; dual SIM via eSIM + nano SIM on most models.
- Wi‑Fi 6E/7 depending on model; Bluetooth 5.3; UWB on S24 Ultra.
- NFC for contactless payments via Google Wallet; quick pairing with popular earbuds and watches.
Battery and charging
- S24: 4,000 mAh, up to 25 W wired charging
- S24+: 4,900 mAh, up to 45 W wired charging
- S24 Ultra: 5,000 mAh, up to 45 W wired charging
All support 15 W wireless charging and reverse wireless for earbuds or watches. Chargers are not included in the box.
Types / examples
Here’s a quick comparison of the samsung s24 trio so you can weigh size, cameras, and power at a glance.
| Feature | Galaxy S24 | Galaxy S24+ | Galaxy S24 Ultra |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.2″ FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 1–120 Hz, up to 2,600 nits | 6.7″ QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 1–120 Hz, up to 2,600 nits | 6.8″ QHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 1–120 Hz, up to 2,600 nits |
| Chipset (NZ) | Exynos 2400 | Exynos 2400 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy |
| RAM / Storage | 8 GB; 128/256 GB options | 12 GB; 256/512 GB options | 12 GB; 256/512 GB/1 TB options |
| Main cameras | 50 MP + 12 MP ultra‑wide + 10 MP 3x | 50 MP + 12 MP ultra‑wide + 10 MP 3x | 200 MP + 12 MP ultra‑wide + 10 MP 3x + 50 MP 5x |
| Battery | 4,000 mAh | 4,900 mAh | 5,000 mAh |
| Charging | Up to 25 W wired | Up to 45 W wired | Up to 45 W wired |
| Build | Aluminium, Victus 2 glass | Aluminium, Victus 2 glass | Titanium frame, Gorilla Armor |
| S Pen | No | No | Yes, built‑in |
| Wi‑Fi | Wi‑Fi 6E | Wi‑Fi 7 | Wi‑Fi 7 |
| Software support | 7 years of Android OS and security updates | ||
Real‑world examples for Kiwis
- Commuters: Circle to Search a jacket you spot on the train, then check prices before you reach Britomart.
- Tradies: S24 Ultra’s 5x optical zoom for roof inspections; IP68 helps when the weather turns in Wellington.
- Students: S24’s compact size slips into pockets; Note Assist summarises lectures; long updates cover your degree.
- Content creators: Ultra’s 200 MP main camera and better stabilisation reduce the need for extra gear.
- Small business owners: Live Translate for supplier calls, plus eSIM flexibility when travelling across the Tasman.
Pros and cons
- Pros
- Galaxy AI actually saves time: search, translate, edit, and summarise without extra apps.
- Seven years of updates extends value and security.
- Bright displays remain readable in New Zealand sun.
- Ultra’s camera system is versatile without a bulky rig.
- Strong 5G and eSIM support for local carriers.
- Cons
- No charger in the box; plan for a 25 W or 45 W adapter.
- No microSD slot across the range.
- AI edits can look unrealistic if pushed too far.
- S24’s 25 W charging is slower than some rivals.
How to use or choose
Pick the right samsung s24 for you
- Choose Galaxy S24 if you want a compact flagship with great cameras and the lowest price of the trio.
- Choose Galaxy S24+ if battery life and a larger QHD+ screen matter more than carrying the biggest phone.
- Choose Galaxy S24 Ultra if you want the best cameras, S Pen, titanium build, and the fastest chipset.
Storage and RAM advice
- 128 GB works for light users who stream and store photos in the cloud.
- 256 GB is the safe middle ground for most people.
- 512 GB or 1 TB suits 4K/8K shooters and mobile editors. There’s no microSD, so buy enough up front.
NZ buying tips
- Carriers: Compare Spark, One NZ, and 2degrees for 5G coverage where you live and travel. Rural users should check local towers and any RCG improvements.
- Retailers: PB Tech, Noel Leeming, JB Hi‑Fi, and Samsung NZ often run trade‑ins and bonus credits.
- eSIM: All three carriers support eSIM on recent plans; it’s handy for dual‑number setups.
- Accessories: Add a 45 W USB‑C PD PPS charger for S24+ or Ultra and a quality case; the screen is tough but not magic.
Step‑by‑step: Move to your samsung s24 with Smart Switch
- Charge both phones and connect to Wi‑Fi.
- On the S24, open Settings > Accounts and backup > Smart Switch.
- Select Receive data, then choose your old phone type (Android or iPhone).
- Use a USB‑C cable for the fastest transfer; wireless also works.
- Pick what to move: apps, photos, messages, call logs, and settings.
- Start transfer and let it finish before unplugging.
- Sign in to your Google and Samsung accounts; check banking and 2FA apps manually.
Make the most of Galaxy AI
- Enable Circle to Search with a long‑press of the gesture bar or home button in settings.
- Turn on Live Translate for the Phone app; pre‑download languages for travel.
- Use Note Assist to summarise meeting notes and create task lists.
- Try Generative Edit sparingly—fix distractions, don’t overhaul reality.
FAQ
Is the samsung s24 good for New Zealand 5G?
Yes. The S24 series supports sub‑6 5G used by Spark, One NZ, and 2degrees. Coverage varies by area; check carrier maps before you buy.
Which chip does the NZ model use?
In New Zealand, Galaxy S24 and S24+ generally use the Exynos 2400. The Galaxy S24 Ultra uses Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy.
How long will the samsung s24 get updates?
Samsung promises seven years of Android OS upgrades and security updates for the S24 series.
Does it support eSIM and dual SIM?
Yes. The phones support eSIM, and most NZ variants offer dual SIM via eSIM + nano SIM. Carrier plan eligibility applies.
Does the box include a charger?
No. You get a USB‑C cable and documentation. For fastest speeds, use a 25 W (S24) or 45 W (S24+/Ultra) USB‑C PD PPS charger.
Can I use microSD on the samsung s24?
No. There’s no microSD slot. Choose enough storage at purchase or use cloud backups.
What’s new about the S24 Ultra camera?
A 200 MP main sensor, a 50 MP 5x telephoto, improved stabilisation, and better low‑light processing. It’s the best option for zoom and video.
Do Galaxy AI features cost extra?
They’re included on the S24 series. Some features may use cloud processing tied to your Samsung account and data plan.
Is the samsung s24 durable enough for outdoor work?
All models are IP68 water and dust resistant. The Ultra’s titanium frame and Gorilla Armor glass improve toughness and glare reduction. A case is still recommended.
Which one has the best battery life?
The S24 Ultra and S24+ last the longest thanks to larger batteries. The compact S24 still handles a full day for most users.
Bottom line
The samsung s24 series leans into practical AI, excellent screens, and long software support. Pick the S24 for a pocket‑friendly flagship, the S24+ for big‑screen balance, or the S24 Ultra if you want the best cameras and an S Pen. In New Zealand, you’ll get strong 5G, eSIM flexibility, and years of updates—exactly what you want from a phone you’ll live with every day.