The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra adds a 200MP camera and the latest Qualcomm processor

The new Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is even more similar to the new Galaxy Note with flatter screen edges and curved sides. Moreover, Samsung’s latest flagship smartphone upgrades its photographic capabilities with a 200MP sensor and an expanded RAW mode to take advantage of the device.

Featuring the latest Qualcomm processor, 2X Dynamic AMOLED display, 200 megapixel camera and, of course, support for the S Pen, the Ultra seems like the epitome of a flagship device.

The ambition to be the best camera phone on the market

Compared to the previous Galaxy S22 Ultra, the S23’s rear camera system lens is even bigger.

The main photo sensor is able to vary the number of pixels to better adapt to image conditions. It can combine 16 pixels into one for brighter, more detailed photos, or you can shoot in full 200MP mode, which gives you more freedom when cropping your shots.

Other Galaxy S23 Ultra improvements include a sharper 12MP front camera, a new Galaxy-exclusive Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip that promises blazing-fast performance, and a flatter display optimized for S Pen use.

With the Expert RAW function to download (free) from the Galaxy Store, you can shoot in 50 Mpx for more detailed and more dynamic images or use astrophotos in manual exposure or by letting the device choose to capture the planets and constellations with clarity. Expert RAW is supported on S23 series devices, S22 series devices, S21 Ultra, S20 Ultra, Note20 Ultra, Z Fold4, Z Fold3, and Z Fold2.

The screen is less curved

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra has a slight facelift where the 6.8-inch QHD+ curved screen is slightly flatter. Samsung made this choice so users can write notes and draw all the way to the edge of the screen using the phone’s retractable stylus. Also, with a less curved screen, the S23 Ultra features slightly flatter edges making it easier to hold with a firmer grip.

Talking about the screen, the 120Hz technology intelligently optimizes the refresh rate to smooth the action and save battery life.

For durability, Gorilla Glass promises good toughness. With an IP68X rating, the Galaxy S23 Ultra can withstand immersion in water as deep as 1.5 meters and is protected for 30 minutes from dirt, dust and sand. This is great news for a device at this price.

Recycled material

For the S23 Ultra’s materials, the company used mostly recycled materials for the phone, such as used fishing nets and recycled water barrels. Glass PET film, recycled glass and marine plastic are ECV (Environmental Claims Validation) certified. And the packaging is made entirely of recycled paper.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra in short:

• From: CA$1650 (rounded up)
• Mobile OS: Android 13
• Screen: 6.8-inch 2X Dynamic AMOLED display
• Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy chipset with Adreno 740 graphics
• RAM Memory: 8GB, 12GB
• Battery: 5000mAh
• Charging: 45W wired, 10W wireless
• Dust, waterproof: IP68
• Rear camera: 200 MP (ƒ/1.5) main sensor; Wide angle 12 MP (ƒ/2.4)
• Selfie camera: 12 MP (f/1.9)
• Storage: 128, 256 or 512 GB
• Size: 163.4 x 78.1 x 8.9mm
• Weight: 233 grams

Price and color

For pre-orders of the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: