Samsung’s has finally unveiled its next-generation Galaxy S smartphone. As it was expected, the company introduced S5 during its “Unpacked” event at the 2014 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. One thing that can be said about the device is that it beauty is not skin-deep.
Samsung Galaxy S5 does come with a number of new features. However, the rumoured curved or flexible display, 64-bit processor, 4GB of RAM, 3,200 mAh battery and metal body are nowhere to be seen. In many ways, Samsung’s latest flagship smartphone resembles its predecessor S4. However, there are some new features and improvements that make up for that. Here’s what’s old, new and improved about Galaxy S5.
What’s Old
At first sight the design of S5 and S4 do not seem to differ that much. Unfortunately, the latest Galaxy S is again predominantly plastic. Although its back comes with a dotted and slightly rubberized case (possibly for a better grip), it does not give the device the high-end sensation which consumers still desire. Nevertheless, the phone will come in four different colours – blue, black, white and bronze.
As for S5’s bigger screen, it measures at 5.1 inches. This is barely 0.1 inch more compared to Galaxy S4. In addition, it offers the same resolution as its predecessor – 1080×1920 pixels.
What’s Improved
One of the best things about Samsung Galaxy S5 is its 2,800mAh battery. Apart from being more powerful than that of S4, it is also boosted by an improved power-saving mode. As a result, the device’s battery life is estimated at 21 hours. Also, S5 comes with a removable case, enabling consumers to replace the battery when its runs out of juice or if it needs to be replaced.
Even though the smartphone packs the same RAM and the same built-in storage capacity as S4, it supports USB 3.0. This means that users will be able to transfer and sync their files faster.
Another great advantage of the fifth-generation Galaxy S is its operating system. S5 relies on the latest Android – KitKat 4.4.2. Well, it does not come with a new interface as rumours suggested. However, it makes better use of Samsung’s ecosystem.
Let’s not forget about the camera. Samsung Galaxy S5 is equipped with a 16MP rear camera. Moreover, it can record 4K videos with a resolution of 3840×2160.
The power under the hood of this gadget is also impressive. S5 rocks a robust Snapdragon 800 2.5GHz quad-core processor. Still, there is no 64-bit chipset.
What’s New
Finally, we have come to the most interesting bit! Although the new things about the new-generation Samsung Galaxy S are not that many, they deserve special attention. As it was predicted, S5 has a fingerprint scanner. It is integrated into the device’s home button. The innovative feature can be used for locking and unlocking, as well as for authorization of online payments.
In addition, Galaxy S5 is following the health trend which is seen in the technology industry lately. The gadget support a heart-rate sensor. It relies on pre-installed applications and the rear side of the phone to measure user’s heart rate. Among the health-focused apps supported by S5 is also S Health. In addition to that, the device sports in-built apps that will enable owners to connect it to Samsung’s newly introduced smartwatches – Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo.
Another interesting detail about Samsung Galaxy S5 is it is completely dustproof. Also, it is water-resistant, as long as you don’t keep it under the water for too long.
Samsung Galaxy S5 will be released on April 15th in more than 150 countries. Samsung is yet to announce the device’s pricing.
