The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, released in January 2021, represents the pinnacle of Samsung’s smartphone technology. As the flagship model in the Galaxy S21 series, it offers a wealth of advanced features, premium build quality, and cutting-edge specifications. This review delves into various aspects of the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, with a focus on its reception and performance in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) market.
Design and Build Quality
The Galaxy S21 Ultra boasts a sophisticated and robust design that blends functionality with aesthetics. Its sleek frame is made from high-quality materials, featuring an Aluminium frame and Gorilla Glass Victus on both the front and back. The device feels solid and premium in hand, which is a critical factor for many UAE consumers who prioritise luxury and durability.
Available in Phantom Black, Phantom Silver, and a few other colour variants, the S21 Ultra’s design is both understated and striking. The camera module’s contour-cut design seamlessly integrates with the phone’s frame, reducing the protrusion seen in previous models and adding to the device’s sleek appearance.
Display
One of the most compelling features of the Galaxy S21 Ultra is its display. The device sports a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen with a resolution of 3200 x 1440 pixels, providing an incredibly sharp and vibrant viewing experience. The display supports a 120Hz refresh rate at full resolution, offering smooth scrolling and responsive touch interactions, which is ideal for gaming and multimedia consumption.
In the UAE, where high temperatures and bright sunlight can affect screen visibility, the Galaxy S21 Ultra excels with its peak brightness of up to 1500 nits. This ensures excellent readability even under direct sunlight, making it a practical choice for outdoor use. The inclusion of HDR10+ further enhances the visual experience, delivering stunning contrast and colour accuracy.
Performance
Under the hood, the Galaxy S21 Ultra is powered by the Exynos 2100 chipset in the UAE, differing from the Snapdragon 888 variant found in other regions. The Exynos 2100 is a 5 nm octa-core processor that delivers impressive performance across various tasks, from daily operations to intensive gaming. Combined with up to 16GB of RAM, the S21 Ultra handles multitasking effortlessly and maintains smooth performance under heavy loads.
For UAE consumers, fast and reliable connectivity is crucial. The Galaxy S21 Ultra supports 5G networks, ensuring future-proof connectivity options. Additionally, Wi-Fi 6E support offers enhanced wireless performance, which is beneficial in urban areas where network congestion can be an issue.
Battery Life and Charging
The Galaxy S21 Ultra is equipped with a 5000mAh battery, offering robust battery life that easily lasts through a full day of intensive use. Whether streaming videos, gaming, or using GPS navigation, the device provides reliable endurance. This is essential in the UAE, where a dependable battery is crucial for users constantly on the go.
For charging, the S21 Ultra supports 25W fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging. While the charging speeds are competitive, it is worth noting that the device does not include a charger in the box, following the industry’s recent trend towards environmental sustainability. However, users can use their existing chargers or purchase Samsung’s 25W charger separately.
Software and Features
The Galaxy S21 Ultra runs on One UI 3.1, based on Android 11, offering a user-friendly and customizable interface. One UI is designed to enhance usability, with features like an intuitive layout, customizable home screens, and advanced privacy controls. The software is optimised to take full advantage of the hardware, ensuring a smooth and responsive user experience.
Samsung DeX is another feature that adds significant value to the S21 Ultra. It allows users to connect their phone to a monitor or TV and use it as a desktop computer. This is particularly useful for business professionals in the UAE who need to work on the go, providing them with a flexible and portable workstation.
Security
Security is a top priority for many smartphone users, and the Galaxy S21 Ultra does not disappoint in this regard. It includes an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor embedded under the display, offering fast and secure biometric authentication. Additionally, the device supports facial recognition, providing users with multiple options for unlocking their phones.
Samsung’s Knox security platform adds an extra layer of protection, safeguarding user data from malware and other threats. This is particularly important for UAE consumers who may use their phones for banking, online shopping, and other sensitive activities.
Camera System
The camera system of the Galaxy S21 Ultra is one of its standout features, setting new benchmarks for smartphone photography. It features a quad-camera setup, including a 108MP wide sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide sensor, and two 10MP telephoto sensors offering 3x and 10x optical zoom. This versatile camera array allows users to capture stunning photos in various conditions and settings.
In the UAE, where picturesque landscapes and vibrant cityscapes are abundant, the S21 Ultra’s camera system shines. The 108MP sensor captures intricate details with remarkable clarity, while the advanced zoom capabilities enable users to photograph distant subjects without compromising on quality. The device also supports 8K video recording, providing ultra-high-definition video capture that is perfect for capturing memorable moments in extraordinary detail.
Low-light photography is another area where the S21 Ultra excels. Thanks to its large sensor size and improved Night Mode, the device captures bright and clear images even in challenging lighting conditions. This is particularly useful for UAE residents who often enjoy nighttime photography in bustling city environments.
Pricing
The Galaxy S21 Ultra is positioned as a premium device, and its pricing reflects this status. In the UAE, the device is available in several storage variants, with prices varying accordingly. The base model with 128GB of storage starts at around AED 4,699, while the 256GB and 512GB models are priced higher. Despite the high cost, many UAE consumers are willing to invest in the S21 Ultra due to its advanced features and the prestige associated with owning a flagship Samsung device.
Where to Buy the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra in the UAE
The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra is widely available across the UAE, both online and in physical stores. Here are some of the most reliable and popular places where you can purchase the device:
Major Retailers
Carrefour: As one of the largest hypermarket chains in the UAE, Carrefour offers the Galaxy S21 Ultra in its electronics section. You can visit any of their locations across the UAE or shop online through their website.
Sharaf DG: Known for its extensive range of electronics, Sharaf DG provides both in-store and online shopping options for the Galaxy S21 Ultra. They often have promotions and financing options available.
Jumbo Electronics: Another well-known electronics retailer in the UAE, Jumbo Electronics stocks the Galaxy S21 Ultra and offers convenient shopping options both online and at their physical stores.
Emax: Emax, part of the Landmark Group, offers a wide variety of electronics including the Galaxy S21 Ultra. You can purchase it online or from one of their numerous stores across the UAE.
Online Marketplaces
Amazon.ae: Amazon UAE is a trusted online platform where you can find the Galaxy S21 Ultra. The site often has competitive prices, and you can benefit from fast shipping and customer reviews.
Noon.com: Another popular online retailer, Technoor offers the Galaxy S21 Ultra with various deals and discounts. They also provide quick delivery options and excellent customer service.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra stands out as a top-tier smartphone that delivers on all fronts, from design and display to performance and camera capabilities. Its advanced features cater to a wide range of needs, making it a versatile choice for users in the UAE. The device’s robust build quality, stunning display, powerful performance, and exceptional camera system make it a compelling option for those seeking a premium smartphone experience.
In the UAE market, where consumers have a penchant for the latest technology and luxury products, the Galaxy S21 Ultra fits perfectly. Its high price point is justified by the extensive features and superior performance it offers, ensuring that users get excellent value for their investment. Whether for personal use, professional needs, or multimedia consumption, the Galaxy S21 Ultra is a flagship device that meets and exceeds expectations.
As Samsung continues to innovate and push the boundaries of smartphone technology, the Galaxy S21 Ultra remains a testament to the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality products that resonate with discerning consumers. For those in the UAE looking for the ultimate smartphone experience, the Galaxy S21 Ultra is undoubtedly a top contender.
FAQs
Q. What are the key features of the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra?
A. The Galaxy S21 Ultra features a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a quad-camera system with a 108MP main sensor, Exynos 2100 (in the UAE) processor, up to 16GB of RAM, 5G connectivity, and a 5000mAh battery.
Q. Is the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G compatible in the UAE?
A. Yes, the Galaxy S21 Ultra supports 5G connectivity, ensuring future-proof network compatibility and high-speed internet access.
Q. What colours are available for the Galaxy S21 Ultra in the UAE?
A. The Galaxy S21 Ultra is available in several colour options, including Phantom Black, Phantom Silver, and other exclusive colours such as Phantom Titanium, Phantom Navy, and Phantom Brown, depending on the retailer.
Q. Does the Galaxy S21 Ultra support expandable storage?
A. No, the Galaxy S21 Ultra does not support expandable storage via microSD card. It is available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB internal storage variants.
Q. What type of charging does the Galaxy S21 Ultra support?
A. The Galaxy S21 Ultra supports 25W wired fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging. However, the charger is not included in the box and must be purchased separately.