First Hand Look: Samsung’s Galaxy S
The Samsung i9000 Galaxy S is the best mobile phone available from the Korean mobile phone manufacturer. With several other Galaxy devices already released, the Galaxy S is the culmination of all the impressive features and hardware made by Samsung. Of course, there is an upcoming Galaxy device that will surpass the i9000, but until the Galaxy Tape is officially available, this handset will still remain as the king of the hill.
When it comes to determining why the i9000 Galaxy S is considered to be the best Android Samsung has got, there are a wide range of features to consider. First off, the device is using the super AMOLED capacitive touch screen. And while this is not the first smart phone to use the technology (the Wave has a 3.3 inch version of this display), the Samsung Galaxy S has the largest so far at 4 inches diagonally. This provides the handset with very clear and solid graphics. The colors are deep and realistic, even the black tones on the display look like real blacks as opposed to simply being gray as with other touch screens.
The ARM Cortex A8 processor is clocked at 1GHz; this provides the handset with the power and speed it needs to match the performance of its Snapdragon powered competitors, the Nexus One, XPERIA X10 and the HTC Desire. The 5 mega pixel camera may sound unimpressive, but it can take videos at a 720p HD quality at 30 frames per second.
The phone’s 8GB of internal memory is complemented with its support for microSD cards, and the device will support up to 32GB cards.
It has also been announced that a Galaxy S Pro smart phone is currently in the works. Initial reports state that the new version will be a US carrier exclusive handset, though many believe that the UK release is highly probable. The Pro version of the Galaxy smart phone will have a slide out QWERTY keyboard.
New Samsung Handsets Bring Back Windows Mobile
If you think that the mobile phone industry has no love for Windows Mobile, think again. Despite the many complaints of users regarding the layout of the OS (which made it restricted to using resistive touch screens as the buttons could only be reach by a stylus), and the fact that it lacked many of the media and social networking features that people have come to expect of smart phones, the WinMo OS still provided plenty of useful and practical business solutions that made it a second choice of many businesses (the first choice being RIM’s BlackBerry smart phones).
With the launch of Windows Phone 7 coming by the last quarter of the year. It is expected that the casual and general smart phone market will finally get a Microsoft mobile platform that caters to their needs and wants. The highly dynamic user interface, social networking and gaming features of WP7 all scream general user fulfillment. At the same time, many experts have agreed that WP7’s weakest factor is Microsoft’s main feature: business functions.
This is why it was not surprising for many when Microsoft announced that they would continue to develop and support the Windows Mobile series even after WP7 launches –this OS keeps their hold of the business market.
Samsung has just announced the Omnia Pro 4 and the Omnia Pro 5, and despite earlier rumors that these devices might be new WP7 handsets, Samsung has made the official statement that the devices would be running WinMo 6.5.
Both handsets are traditional business models –candy bar phones with physical QWERTY keyboards. It may seem cramped for some, but anyone who has been using BlackBerry and Palm smart phones would instantly feel at home.
The Omnia Pro 5 is slightly smaller and slimmer than the Omnia Pro 4 –at the cost of some specs, both devices share very similar software features as the devices use the same OS and comes with MS Office Mobile 2010 and the Office Communicator for Mobile.
The Samsung Wave
The Samsung Wave is a new entry in the smart phone line from the Korean company, Samsung. The Wave features many interesting applications, and features but how does it stack up in the ever growing smart phone market? Well, it features Samsung Bada the Wave is the first phone to feature Samsung's new Operating System for smart phones.
The Samsung Wave offers a Super AMOLED 3.3" display which looks stunning, some of the key new features that makes this touch screen smart phone stand out from others on in the market is the “Social Hub” which incorporates any known way of communication on the internet and sync’s them on your phone which is good for business men and women, or a highly social teen. With its TouchWiz 3.0 UI, it provides an integrated experience of texting/IM, managing contacts and viewing calendar events. Social Hub is powered by the amazing push technology to send out email messages, calendar events and updates in real-time.
The Samsung is a quick and powerful phone with a1 GHz processor which offers users the best graphic performance available today. Speed makes the touch screen user interface incredibly responsive. The video and 3d capabilities are unmatched in the market. Video recording, sharing, and capturing has never been easier. With its Multi-codec support for DivX Xvid, MP4 and WMV, and support for virtual 5.1 surround sound delivery transforms the device into a personal entertainment system. Samsung Wave deals can be found that bring these high end specifications to you for great prices.
The Samsung Wave’s operating system Bada allows the phone to download really an unlimited number of Apps to improve the users experience and improve functionality of the device. It features a large variety of games, navigation, social networking, e-book, health and lifestyle applications, Samsung Apps gives users instant access to a huge choice of mobile experiences. All is built into the phone, and easy to use.
Overall the phone stacks up as a health competitor in the smart phone market.
Samsung S7070 Diva now in the UK
There is a new Samsung device at the Carphone Warehouse and this is one that you might just want to bring home to your wife.
The new Samsung S7070 Diva (also known as the La Fleur) has finally landed on UK shores and it comes with all the impressive features we saw last year when Samsung toured its smart phone demo bus. While we have yet to see the other Diva devices come out, this touch screen device is our favorite in the series. Carphone Warehouse is currently offering the device for free under contract from T-Mobile and Orange.
Despite being a 2G handset, the Diva is pretty much complete when it comes to features and capabilities. The 2.8 inch resistive touch screen offers plenty of horizontal lines (240 x 320 pixels) when it comes to reading or typing long messages without having to strain your eyes. Samsung’s TouchWiz user interface will allow users to fully enjoy navigating the phone. It also comes packed with a 3.2 mega pixel snapper for taking images on the fly –it has autofocus, but lacks LED flash making shots in badly lit areas a little difficult.
The quilted design on the back, the diamond button up front and the soft lines of the phone pretty much give the device a very feminine look –which means that this is not the gift to give to a guy –ever.
More than just style, the Diva also lives up to its name in terms of features; Samsung has put in some extras in this phone such as the “wishlist” which allows users to compile their list of things to buy and get as well as a new custom call function which enables a lady to use their phone during functions and events.
Get to know more about the new 2G Samsung S7070 Diva mobile phone at the GSM Arena.
Samsung E2550 Monte Slider
Samsung's new Monte Slider mobile phone is a member of Samsung's newly-unveiled Monte range, which also includes a number of other stylish mobile devices packing a variety of different features and designs including the S5620 Monte, an S-range touchscreen phone, and the C3200 Monte Bar, a well-rounded device with an extremely durable, solid design. The Monte Slider itself features a range of good applications and features for users to enjoy, including an integral camera (though somewhat disappointing of one as it is only 1.3 megapixels) for basic still photo and video recording capability that comes with a number of settings through which the user can choose the best settings for their imaging needs. On-screen photo viewing and full video playback are also supported by the device.
The Monte Slider also features an elegant slide-out keyboard (as hinted at in the name) and its compact design makes it both easy to use in-hand and easy to carry and slip into the pocket. The slide-out keyboard is an elegant feature and the front of the Slider shows a 2-inch TFT screen with its full colour display. Under the display is a big, square-shaped navigation button, and on either side of this you can see a cal key and a selection key. Usefully the device can also be used when it is in its 'closed' position, and in this form the user can access the device's phone book, messaging service and a wide range of functions.
Alternatively the device can be slid lengthways in order to reveal the numeric keypad. This stylish and ergonomic sliding function makes the Slider a very compact phone, especially when coupled with its dimensions and weight, standing at 9.85x4.85x1.44 and weighing in at a mere 85.5 grams, making the Monte Slider an ultra-easy phone to slide into a pocket and carry around. It even looks classy with its black, glossy casing and its chrome edges.
The design also shows off both the square navigation key and the camera lens, which also adds a stylish edge to the device for those looking to acquire a mobile phone with looks in mind as it is designed to appeal to the image conscious. To further accentuate this the back part of the phone's casing has been subtly crafted into a slightly curved shape which makes it fit ultra-snugly into the hand , making it a joy to hold and use.
The Monte Slider comes complete with a music player that fully supports a wide range of file types for playback, including MP3, WAV, WMA and eAAC files. It also supports MP3 ringtones, allowing the user to choose their ring tone and individualise the phone and also change it as often as desired by downloading tunes to the device from the Internet. There is also an FM radio that allows fully FM recording and games can be downloaded from the Web, which will be great for dedicated gamers.
In terms of communications the Slider can record and display all calls dialled from the device as well as missed calls and all recently received calls. The phone's call log can also be readily accessed through the Slider's main menu and calls can be made directly from the log, negating the need to access the phone book separately or to input the number from scratch. There is also predictive text messaging which works well and helps make input a faster and more pleasant experience.
The Slider works over a GSM 900 and 1800 Dual Band network and a fully charged battery gives around 6.5 hours of talk time. Bluetooth connectivity further helps allow the Slider to connect in a number of ways to various devices to share information. Currently the Monte Slider is schedules for release in the second quarter of the year.
Samsung E2370 review
In an event as large-scale and exciting as the MWC in Barcelona it is no surprise that a number of good new handsets and concepts seemed to slip almost unnoticed under the radar of many. Such was the case with the new Samsung E2370, one of the new members of the range of phones and smartphones unveiled at the conference by the South Korean electronics company.
Samsung's E2370 does not have the new-fangled combination of a touch-screen and QWERTY keyboard so beloved of many contemporary smartphone devices, instead opting for a simple, basic user-friendly appearance that would clearly appeal to users not wishing to be dazzled by high-end specifications. The E2370's major selling point instead is its rubber body that primes it for shock resistance. It both looks and is extremely durable, and will no doubt take plenty of heavy wear and usage in a variety of different conditions before breaking – perfect for those who may have had problems with other devices in the past. Also, not looking like the idealised image of the shiny, sleek smartphone in appearance might also not attract the nefarious roving eyes of thieves.
Samsung are touting the E2370 as a more simple and basic version of the B2100 Explorer, and although no definite price has been announced as yet it is widely anticipated that the eventual price tag will not be overly excessive - especially in the smartphone market. The handset itself is fully IP54 certified and features a 1.77-inch screen, a microSD card slot for memory upgrades, a VGA camera and Bluetooth connectivity. With regards to connectivity - one of the principle considerations of any phone, and especially a smartphone - the Samsung E2370 fully supports the dual-band GSM network, making it fully operative for both European and Asian markets.
There is no support on the device for 3G although the GSM 900/1800 network is fully supported, providing decent connectivity for an entry-level phone. EDGE connectivity is also provided and affords a connection speed of between 236.8 kbps. Despite the fact that the E2370 does not offer Wi-Fi or 3G connectivity users can undertake data transfer via the integral microUSB port as well as the integral Bluetooth c2.1. As a result of these additions data can be transferred either wirelessly or through wire connections, though many people may not be pleased with the lacking connection features present on most other smartphones out there.
In terms of its basic appearance the device has gone for a combination of tough and colourful, with its rugged, rubbery design and its appealing colour combinations working together to create a subtle yet unique look. One look at the device tells you that it will definitely be a hard-wearing phone and will probably take quite a bit of rough handling if need be. In a further nice touch the keys are orange in colour, making for quite a striking contrast for the device. Following the traditional bar phone structure the keypad is located on the lower half of the device with the screen at the top - again, nothing particularly flashy, just tough user functionality.
The screen itself packs a 128X160 pixel resolution on the device's 112x49x19mm dimensions, making it comfortable to handling and carry. With regards to memory storage yet again the Samsung E2370 is not overly-burdened by high-end smartphone specifications and so does not require high-spec memory to support the high end applications and features found on other devices. Still, the device's internal memory can store up to 1,000 contacts in its integral phone book and the capacity can be upgraded via a microSD TransFlash card.
Unlike a high-end device the E2370 doesn't pack a very high-spec integral camera, although the mere presence of one does put it above most other entry level phones. The integral VGA camera packs a 640x480 pixel resolution and is capable of shooting VGA videos. Whilst this is a nice surprise for such an entry-level device it may have been more forward-thinking for Samsung to have opted for including a low-res megapixel device instead as many users may have found it more functional and appropriate to their particular needs. The device also packs an integral music player as well as video playback capacity with the ability to support MP3, WMA, eAAC and MP4 files. To top it all off the phone supports an excellent battery life, with up to 20 hours of talk time in standard mode or up to 1,000 hours in standby mode – good news for those looking to spend long hours on the phone each day without needing to worry about power levels.
Samsung release their new phone, the Galaxy Portal
Samsung are well known for their commitment for making affordable yet reliable phones. All their phones go through rigorous testing, to ensure that when the consumer receives it that everything works just as it should. The new phone from Samsung, the Samsung Galaxy Portal is designed to be affordable to everyone. Featuring Google integration it allows you to run all of Google's programs from the touch of a button. The phone runs on Google's Android operating system, and the phone uses an 800MHz CPU, giving you speed and control when using the phone.
Although people label the phone a downgrade form the Galaxy i7500, it still has many great features. A 3 megapixel camera will not see you making professional looking photos, yet it will cater for the everyday person, when taking photographs of things from birthdays and children's parties, to nights out and special moments with someone special.
At the moment, this Samsung phone is only available in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, although it may well be available in other continents soon, but it all depends on the sales figures from the current sales. We will keep you posted with any updates of when you can get hold of the Galaxy Portal on contract or pay as you go.
Get the Samsung Galaxy Portal from T-Mobile
There is a new Android phone in town. The Samsung Galaxy Portal i5700 is currently being offered by T-Mobile in its monthly plans (you can get it for free in the £23, 18 month deal) and the mobile network operator will have the device exclusively for the next month.
It is a great deal for an Android smart phone. Considering that most of the new Android smart phones being released lately are high end models, the prices will also in the slightly more expensive too. For Android fans who simply want a basic device that’s updated to a new version, getting the higher end devices is not a financially sound option.
The release of the Portal in the UK is welcome surprise for many fans of the Google operating system as it was originally thought that the device would never be available locally. The Samsung Galaxy Spica originally came out as the Galaxy Lite (meant to be a cheaper alternative to the original Galaxy –which was available in the UK). Anyway, the device got a quick name change for its UK release as the Portal.
The Portal, despite being a budget device, is a fully functional smart phone. The 3.2 inch TFT touch screen provides excellent tracking of finger movements, the screen itself is very responsive to the touch. With a resolution of 320 x 480 pixels (and 16 million colors), the phone is able to handle images and videos easily, providing clear visuals to the user.
The phone also comes with a 3.2 mega pixel camera that has auto focus, geo tagging and of course video capabilities. No LED flash, but as long as you watch the lighting in your shoots, it will not be a problem. Geo-tagging is an excellent option for users who love to upload and share images.
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Good Phone. Great Price. The Samsung M2510
Those in the market for a good, basic phone may find the Samsung M2510 to be just what they are looking for. It is an attractive mobile handset that offers just enough specs to keep it affordable.
The M2510 gives users the ability to snap photos with its 1.3 megapixel camera. It also has and FM radio and FM recording capabilities. The phone weighs 90.5 g and has measurements of 99.5 x 46.5 x 15.77. The handset’s display screen is 2.2 inches, has a pixel resolution of 176 x 220 and showcases 256, 000 colors.
Users will have 15 MB of internal memory to store files. If they need more, they will be able to add up to 8 GB via the mobile’s microSD card slot. Also, standard with the phone is a 3.5 mm audio jack, DNSe audio enhancement technology and a media player. Users will find that they can use the phone without hands with the phone’s Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity. Though most mobile phones now offer this, it is especially useful now that some states require that drives that use their mobile phones while driving not use their hands. The M2510’s USB connectivity makes it possible for users to easily connect their phones to their computer so that they can easily transfer files.
As stated above, the Samsung M2510 is a quality handset that gives users the basics. It definitely doesn’t have the best specs, but it does offer a good amount of features. Besides phoning abilities, the handset gives users the ability to take pictures and play music. Again, it comes with a 1.3 megapixel camera. This is one of the least impressive phone cameras on the market but it at least takes pictures. The mobile’s FM radio and music player allows individuals to listen to their favorite songs and local DJs. Overall, this is a good phone for those looking only to spend a little bit of money.
Looking For a Decent 3.5 G Phone? Try the Samsung Lindy M5650
The Samsung Lindy M5650 is one of the newer phones that is soon-to-be released worldwide by Samsung. As of now, it is only available for purchase in Spain and Portugal. The Lindy is an offshoot of the Corby, a pretty popular handset. While there are definitely some notable similarities, the Lindy is step above.
The Lindy has many of the standard specs that most of today’s advanced multi-media phones offer. Potential buyers will find that they have access to a video recorder, and 3 megapixel camera. The display screen is nearly 3.0 inches (2.8 in). It comes with Bluetooth, FM radio, Wi-Fi and USB connectivity. The phone’s memory can be expanded via the phone’s microSD card slot. The Lindy is a lightweight, 3.5G handset that weights about 100 grams.
Users will be able to access the internet and use their email. Social networking sites such as MySpace, Facebook, YouTube and Twitter are easily accessible from the phone. These very popular social sites are becoming integrated more and more into newer handsets as manufactures recognize the importance of they hold in many user’s everyday lives.
While the Lindy is an attractive phone, it has a pretty cartoonish appearance, at least the display is. It’s not really grown up looking. Its design will likely appeal more the younger mobile phone users. This is especially true considering the easy accessibility to the social networking websites.
The Lindy M5659 is one of the newer, not-yet-released, handsets to soon hit the market. This is a mid-level phone that will be sold for at least €159. It has good features, including a nice, 3.0 megapixel camera and video recording capabilities. Individuals are able to enjoy Wi-Fi, FM radio and utilize Bluetooth. More memory can be added via the handset’s microSD memory card slot. An updated version of the popular Corby phone, Samsung is making a good phone even better.