When you spend over $1,300 on a flagship Android phone, your expectations are bound to be high. You’d think that with proper care, the device would perform and look as advertised for at least a few years. However, a problem with the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra’s display has left many users surprised and disappointed.
Some users have reported that after using their devices for less than a year, their screens have developed unsightly streaks that cannot be wiped off. This is a concern for those who have encountered it, and surveys have been conducted to determine whether this is a common phenomenon or just isolated cases.
The issue is reportedly related to premature wear of the oleophobic coating on the display. While wear and tear is to be expected over time, user images on social media show the coating deteriorating significantly in less than 12 months, leaving the display looking greasy and dirty.
These complaints have detracted from a display that was already highly regarded for its advanced anti-reflective technology.
In a survey, 47% of Galaxy S24 Ultra owners said their screen was as good and clear as when they first bought it. This is a positive result, but also expected for such a premium product.
However, 22% of users admitted to experiencing some streaks and scratches.
What’s worrying is that more than 30% of users say their Galaxy S24 Ultra screens have similar or worse problems than the images circulating on social media. This number is not a majority, but it is enough to show that the problem is not small and is likely to be widespread.
“My S24 Ultra started developing these streaks after just three months of use. I’ve had to install a screen protector ever since,” says reader Chris Souder.
This is a solution that many have suggested, but it’s clearly not a satisfactory option for everyone. There’s also some debate about whether the screen cleaning solutions some users use are causing the oleophobic coating to wear away more quickly.
With the Galaxy S25 series expected to launch in the coming weeks, would-be upgraders will surely be looking for Samsung to make a commitment to not repeat similar issues.
