Itel S24 – Itel has once again shaken up the South African smartphone market with the launch of its new Itel S24, priced at just R2,999. This device has already gone viral because of its incredible 108MP camera, which is a first for a budget-friendly phone in this range. With many South Africans searching for affordable smartphones that don’t compromise on features, the S24 fills a major gap. According to recent reports on affordable smartphone adoption in South Africa, demand for high-spec devices under R3,500 has grown significantly, making the Itel S24’s entry perfectly timed (Business Insider SA). The phone also supports large storage options, strong performance, and impressive battery life, making it suitable for students, working professionals, and even small business owners who need reliable connectivity. For a country where digital communication is vital for both personal and business needs, the arrival of this phone not only offers choice but also affordability, setting a new benchmark in the budget category.
Unmatched Camera Quality at a Budget Price
The highlight of the Itel S24 is undoubtedly its 108MP ultra-clear main camera. In a market where most budget smartphones offer between 13MP and 50MP, Itel has raised the bar by providing flagship-level photography in a budget handset. South Africans who enjoy sharing pictures on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook will find this camera appealing for its clarity and detail. According to GSMArena, cameras with higher megapixels enhance sharpness and allow better zoom capabilities, making the S24 perfect for both personal and professional photography needs. The selfie camera also supports AI beautification and HDR mode, making it popular among younger audiences who prioritize high-quality selfies. With this, Itel has tapped into the lifestyle of South African youth who want top features at affordable prices without stretching their budgets.
Performance, Storage, and Battery for Everyday Needs
Beyond the camera, the Itel S24 packs strong specifications tailored for everyday users. The device features 8GB of RAM (expandable with virtual RAM) and 128GB storage, which can also be extended via microSD. This ensures smooth multitasking, whether browsing, streaming, or handling work-related tasks. Paired with its efficient processor, the phone offers solid gaming performance for popular mobile games. According to TechRadar, battery life is one of the most crucial factors for South African users, many of whom face power cuts and loadshedding challenges. The S24’s long-lasting 5000mAh battery, with fast-charging support, ensures users stay connected throughout the day. This reliability makes it an attractive choice for professionals, students, and families looking for an all-rounder smartphone under R3,000.
Market Impact and Competition
The launch of the Itel S24 is not just a product release but a major disruptor in South Africa’s smartphone industry. Competing brands like Tecno, Xiaomi, and Samsung have long dominated the budget and mid-range space. However, Itel has differentiated itself by offering a 108MP camera at a fraction of the price. Analysts suggest that this move will encourage competitors to lower their prices or enhance their features in the budget category. According to MyBroadband, South African consumers are increasingly turning to online reviews and comparisons before buying, and the S24’s value proposition is already trending across social platforms. Its affordability combined with high-tech features makes it likely to become one of the top-selling budget phones of 2025, especially in a price-sensitive market.
Relevance to Digital Lifestyle and Business Needs
In today’s world, smartphones are more than just devices; they are essential tools for education, communication, and business. The Itel S24 addresses this reality by offering premium features that support content creation, video calls, and even small-scale e-commerce activities. Many South Africans rely on smartphones for running their businesses online, and a device with strong performance and a high-quality camera enhances that capability. According to Statista, over 26 million South Africans actively use smartphones for internet access, highlighting the importance of affordable yet capable devices. The S24, with its budget-friendly pricing and strong features, is likely to be embraced not only by tech-savvy youth but also by entrepreneurs, families, and rural communities looking for reliable mobile solutions. This launch is more than a tech story—it is a reflection of how affordability and innovation can empower digital connectivity in South Africa.
