Samsung has officially introduced its latest mid-range smartphone, the Galaxy S24 FE (Fan Edition), offering a mix of flagship features and impressive AI capabilities at a more affordable price point of $650. For years, Samsung’s FE series has provided consumers with a way to access premium features from its flagship devices without the hefty price tag. This year, the Galaxy S24 FE carries on that tradition, with some notable upgrades in design, AI software, and hardware.
A Fresh New Design: Squared-Off Sides and Bigger Display
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Galaxy S24 FE is the change in design. Samsung has ditched the rounded corners seen in previous models and opted for squared-off sides, giving the device a sleeker, more premium look that aligns with this year’s flagship Galaxy S24 series. The bezels have also been slightly reduced, making room for a larger 7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display (up from last year’s 6.4-inch screen). Despite the size increase, the phone still feels comfortable to hold due to its refined shape.
The design changes are subtle but make the Galaxy S24 FE stand out from its predecessor, the S23 FE, which favored a more curved aesthetic. The new FE phone is available in blue, graphite, gray, and mint green—with the latter offering a particularly subtle yet fresh hue for those looking for a unique color option.
AI Integration: Galaxy AI Brings Advanced Software Features
Samsung has focused heavily on bringing its Galaxy AI features to the S24 FE, packaging it with the same software tools seen in the premium S24 Ultra and the Galaxy Z Flip and Fold 6 models. These AI-driven features aim to enhance the photo and video experience, making it easier for users to create professional-looking content. Some of the standout features include:
- Portrait Studio: Provides enhanced portrait options, allowing users to refine depth of field, lighting, and bokeh effects.
- Generative Edit: Lets users add AI-generated elements to photos. For example, you can place objects like a chair or a tree into your images, much like how Google’s Pixel devices leverage their AI tools.
- Sketch to Image: This feature allows users to draw sketches that are turned into fully formed images by the AI. However, this tool works best on larger screens like the S24 Ultra, as the smaller FE display can make detailed drawing challenging.
While these AI features are impressive, they might feel gimmicky for some users who don’t often need AI-generated elements in their photos. For casual users, features like Nightography (Samsung’s advanced low-light photography suite) and the ProVisual Engine (which helps with photo framing and noise reduction) will likely be more appealing.
Hardware Upgrades: Slight but Noticeable Improvements
Under the hood, the Galaxy S24 FE is powered by the 4nm Exynos 2400e chip, a slight upgrade from the Exynos 2200 used in last year’s model. This chip brings increased power for on-device AI features, like Live Translate, which can translate phone calls in real time. For more intensive AI tasks, such as Interpreter’s personal translation or the Composer AI text generator, the phone relies on cloud-based processing.
Other hardware improvements include a larger vapor chamber for better cooling during resource-heavy tasks like gaming, and an upgraded 4,700 mAh battery (up from 4,500 mAh on the S23 FE). While the larger battery should help improve longevity, especially with the added AI processing capabilities, it will require more extensive use to determine how much of a difference it makes in real-world scenarios.
In terms of camera capabilities, the Galaxy S24 FE sports a 50 MP wide lens, an 8 MP telephoto lens with 3X zoom, and a 12 MP ultra-wide sensor. These sensors are complemented by Samsung’s AI-powered Nightography and ProVisual Engine, which enhance image quality in low-light conditions and improve overall image sharpness and clarity. It’s a solid camera setup for a mid-range phone, putting it in competition with devices like Google’s Pixel 9 series.
Galaxy Watch FE with LTE: Expanded Connectivity on the Go
Alongside the new phone, Samsung also unveiled a new version of the Galaxy Watch FE, now featuring LTE connectivity. Priced at $250, this version of the smartwatch allows users to make calls, send texts, and track their health metrics without needing to pair it with a smartphone. For those who only need the basic features, the non-LTE version is still available for $200.
The LTE addition is a notable upgrade for fitness enthusiasts who prefer to leave their phone at home but still want access to essential communication features while tracking workouts. The Galaxy Watch FE also integrates with Samsung Health, providing users with detailed insights into their activity levels, heart rate, and sleep patterns.
Final Thoughts: A Value-Packed Option for AI Enthusiasts
The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is a solid mid-range device that brings many of Samsung’s flagship features—particularly in AI and camera technology—down to a more accessible price point. The new AI tools may not be for everyone, but they add a layer of creative potential for users who enjoy experimenting with their photos and videos.
With a refreshed design, larger battery, and improved hardware, the Galaxy S24 FE is likely to appeal to users who want a premium Samsung experience without breaking the bank. Available for preorder now and hitting shelves on October 3, the Galaxy S24 FE is poised to be a strong contender in the mid-range smartphone market.
For those looking to expand their Samsung ecosystem, the Galaxy Watch FE with LTE also adds value, especially for users seeking more freedom from their smartphones during workouts or outdoor activities. With both devices launching in October, Samsung is making a strong push to offer accessible, AI-powered technology to a wider audience.
