itel has once again made waves with its latest offering, the itel S24. Priced competitively at Rs 9,999, this device promises to redefine expectations with its innovative features and sleek design.
A New Look at Design and Build
Diving into the aesthetics, the itel S24 emerges with a fresh perspective on smartphone design. Gone are the conventional norms; instead, it flaunts a polycarbonate body with a premium glass-like finish.
The standout feature here? A mesmerizing color-shifting panel that transforms from serene white to vibrant pink when exposed to UV light—a whimsical addition that adds a touch of flair to its appearance.
Weighing a solid 192 grams, the handset strikes a balanced heft that sits comfortably in the hand. Despite its 8.3 mm thickness, clever engineering ensures it feels surprisingly slim and ergonomic. The rear sports a sizable circular camera island encircled by a striking golden ring, a departure from its predecessor’s design philosophy.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | Polycarbonate with a glass-like finish |
| Weight | 192 grams |
| Thickness | 8.3 mm |
| Design Highlights | Color-shifting panel (white to pink), circular camera island with golden accent |
Performance and User Experience
Underneath the hood, the itel S24 packs a punch with the MediaTek Helio G91 chipset, a significant upgrade over its predecessor.
Built on a 12nm process, this chipset promises robust performance tailored for budget gaming enthusiasts. Coupled with 8GB of RAM (expandable virtually to 16GB via memory fusion technology), multitasking feels seamless, with apps loading swiftly and basic tasks handled effortlessly.
Based on Android 13 with itel’s custom skin, the user interface offers a familiar yet slightly cluttered experience out-of-the-box. While bloatware may irk some users, navigating through the UI remains intuitive, catering to both long-time site users and newcomers alike.
| Performance Metrics | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Processor | MediaTek Helio G91 |
| RAM | 8GB (expandable to 16GB via memory fusion) |
| UI | Android 13 with custom itel skin |
| User Experience | Responsive performance, slight UI clutter |
Display and Multimedia Experience
Equipped with a 6.6-inch HD+ IPS display boasting a 90Hz refresh rate, the ITEL S24 ensures fluid visuals for everyday use.
While the absence of an AMOLED panel might be noted, the display holds its ground indoors with vibrant colors and adequate brightness. However, outdoor visibility under direct sunlight poses challenges despite the panel’s peak brightness of 480 nits.
Adding to its multimedia prowess are dual speakers strategically placed for immersive audio, complemented by a 3.5mm headphone jack—a nod to users who value audio fidelity.
| Display Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Display Type | 6.6-inch HD+ IPS |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz |
| Brightness | 480 nits (peak) |
| Additional Features | Dual speakers, 3.5mm headphone jack |
Camera Capabilities
The itel S24 raises eyebrows with its camera setup, headlined by a 108-megapixel Samsung HM6 ISOCELL sensor—a rarity in its price segment.
Paired with electronic image stabilization (EIS), this sensor promises sharp, stabilized shots even in challenging conditions. Accompanying it is a QVGA depth sensor that enhances portrait shots with pleasing bokeh effects.
On the front, an 8-megapixel selfie camera handles video calls and self-portraits capably, though its low-light performance may leave enthusiasts wanting more. Both front and rear cameras support video recording up to 2K resolution at 30fps, catering to budding videographers on a budget.
| Camera Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Camera | 108MP Samsung HM6 ISOCELL sensor with EIS |
| Secondary Camera | QVGA depth sensor |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP |
| Video Recording | Up to 2K resolution at 30fps |
Battery and Charging
Powering the itel S24 is a robust 5000mAh battery, ensuring longevity that spans a full day of moderate usage. When recharging, the included 18W fast charger promises to refuel the battery efficiently, although a full charge may take over two hours.
| Battery Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 5000mAh |
| Charging Speed | 18W fast charging |
| Charging Time | Approximately 2 hours+ for a full charge |
Verdict: Setting a New Benchmark in the Budget Segment
The itel S24 emerges as a formidable contender in the fiercely competitive budget smartphone market. With its innovative design, robust performance, and impressive camera capabilities, itel has successfully carved a niche for itself.
While some ergonomic quirks and UI clutter may give pause, the overall package remains a commendable offering at its price point.
Whether you’re a budget-conscious consumer or a tech enthusiast looking to explore new horizons, the itel S24 promises to deliver a satisfying experience without breaking the bank.
As with any device, long-term usage will reveal more insights into its durability and performance under varied conditions. Nonetheless, itel’s bold approach with the S24 sets a promising precedent for future innovations in the budget smartphone arena.
