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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesMoving from a Galaxy S23 to a newer Galaxy can bring a newer platform, changes to the display and cameras, and access to newer software features—but the size of the benefit depends on the model you choose and what you need. Samsung still lists the S23 among phones eligible for One UI 8 and Galaxy AI, so upgrading is not automatically necessary just because newer generations exist. Samsung identifies the S24, S25 and S26 as the 2024, 2025 and 2026 generations, respectively.
What changes between the S23 and newer Galaxy generations?
The S23 is a 2023 phone; Samsung’s current lineup guide identifies the S24 as the 2024 generation, the S25 as 2025, and the S26 as 2026. Each generation brings newer hardware and features, but Samsung’s published material does not establish a measured, direct S23-to-S26 improvement in speed, camera quality or battery life.
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The documented changes are generation-specific. Samsung says the S24 generation introduced Galaxy AI to the Galaxy S series and increased display peak brightness from 1,750 nits to 2,600 nits in its comparison. For the S25, Samsung cites the Snapdragon 8 Elite platform and imaging-engine changes, as well as reduced dimensions and weight for listed models compared with the S24. These are manufacturer disclosures, not independent S23-versus-newer-phone test results. Samsung Electronics’ 2026 interim report describes the S24 and S25 changes.
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Samsung lists the standard Galaxy S26 with a 6.3-inch display, a 50 MP main camera and a typical battery capacity of 4,300 mAh. Samsung also claims up to 30 hours of video playback. Those are the manufacturer’s specifications and playback claim; they do not demonstrate longer real-world battery life than an S23 under matched conditions. They also apply to the standard S26, not the S26+ or S26 Ultra. See Samsung’s Galaxy S26 product page for its listed details.
#1 Best Overall
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
Software and Galaxy AI: the S23 is not automatically left behind
Samsung US includes the S23 series on its One UI 8 eligibility list alongside S24 and S25 models. Eligibility does not mean every S23 has already received the update: rollout can be staged and vary by region, carrier and device. Check the handset itself at Settings > Software update > Download and install, and consult Samsung’s One UI 8 update information for the relevant model and market.
The S23 is also included on Samsung’s Galaxy AI compatibility list. Newer phones may offer newer or different AI capabilities, but Samsung says feature availability varies by model and software version. Treat AI as a feature-by-feature comparison, not a simple split between phones with AI and phones without it. Check Samsung’s Galaxy AI compatibility information for the feature you plan to use.
Rank #2
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Choose the upgrade based on the benefit you need
- You want a brighter display: Samsung’s reported peak-brightness increase is a specific S24-generation change. It may matter if screen visibility is a priority, but the figure is a manufacturer comparison, not a promise of a particular outdoor viewing experience.
- You want newer hardware or imaging features: The S25 brings a newer platform and imaging-engine changes in Samsung’s reporting. Decide based on the features you will use; the available specifications do not quantify a direct S23-to-S25 performance or camera improvement.
- You are considering the S26: Compare its size and listed hardware with the exact S23 model you own. Samsung’s 6.3-inch display, 50 MP main camera and battery figures describe the standard S26; they do not establish superiority over the S23 through independent testing.
- You need a particular camera setup: Compare the exact models, including whether you are looking at a standard phone or an Ultra. Features can differ within a generation, so a family name alone is not enough to establish a camera benefit.
- Your S23 battery is the concern: Consider the condition of your current battery and your daily charging needs. The S26’s published capacity and playback claim cannot tell you how much longer it will last than your S23.
- You are upgrading for software support: Check eligibility and rollout for your region and carrier before deciding. A US support page is not a guarantee of the same timing or availability everywhere.
When keeping the S23 makes sense
Keeping the S23 is reasonable if it still meets your needs, its battery and condition are acceptable, and the specific newer feature you want does not justify the price. Samsung’s current US pages list the S23 as One UI 8-eligible and Galaxy AI-compatible, though feature support and update timing vary. An upgrade is easier to justify when you can name a concrete benefit—such as a display change, a newer platform or a camera capability—and the actual cost after trade-in is worthwhile to you.
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- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Rank #4
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Rank #3
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Before you trade in or buy
- Confirm your current model and software: Open Settings > About phone to identify the model, then check Settings > Software update for available updates.
- Name the feature you want: Check Samsung’s model-specific support details for the software, AI, display or camera feature rather than assuming it is exclusive to newer phones.
- Compare like with like: Verify whether each phone is a standard, Plus or Ultra model and compare the same category of specification.
- Calculate your actual upgrade cost: Use the price and trade-in offer available to you. No single market-wide upgrade price is established here.
- Check local availability: Update eligibility, rollout, carrier support, stock and pricing can vary by region and device.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
