Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S24 Ultra is set to break new ground as the first of the brand’s phones to feature a titanium build. The tech giant is keenly observing consumer feedback to determine the future of titanium in their devices, as reported by The Elec.
In a similar move, Apple has introduced a lighter titanium frame for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max models. This shift from stainless steel frames has resulted in these phones being around nine percent lighter than their predecessors, the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max. Specifically, the iPhone 15 Pro has dropped from 206 grams to 187 grams, and the iPhone 15 Pro Max from 240 grams to 221 grams.
While Samsung is also embracing titanium for the S24 Ultra, it’s not expected to reduce the phone’s weight as significantly as Apple’s models, given that Samsung’s current flagship, the S23 Ultra, already features a lightweight aluminum design.
The Elec cites insider sources who reveal that Samsung has contemplated the switch to titanium casings for nearly two years. The decision to commercialize titanium was recent and reflects the material’s prominence in aerospace due to its strength. Despite its benefits, titanium presents manufacturing challenges such as intricate cutting processes and low heat conductivity, which complicates clean cutting.
These manufacturing hurdles are anticipated to decrease production efficiency and, as a result, increase the cost of titanium frames. While aluminum cases for Samsung’s premium phones are currently under $20, titanium alternatives might soar to $100 each. Despite the cost implications, Samsung has provisionally planned to produce 15 million units of the titanium frame, aligning with the shipment figures for this year’s Galaxy S23 Ultra models.