The Samsung Galaxy S4 is the latest Samsung flagship, and we checked it out last night in New York where the handset launched at a dedicated Samsung Unpacked event.
Sporting the world’s first smartphone eight-core processor, a 13-megapixel camera and all new software functionality, the Samsung Galaxy S4 is easily one of the most eagerly anticipated handsets to be revealed this year.
Samsung Galaxy S4 Video
Give our Samsung Galaxy S4 video a watch to find out more about Samsung’s flagship smartphone.
Read the full Samsung Galaxy S4 review.
Samsung Galaxy S4 Features
Coming in thinner than the 8.3mm thick frame of its predecessor, the Samsung Galaxy S4 packs 136.6mm by 69.8mm dimensions, making it slightly narrower but the same height as the Samsung Galaxy S3.
Despite its svelte measurements, the Samsung Galaxy S4 boasts a stunning Super AMOLED 5-inch affair, boasting a Full 1920 x 1080p HD resolution and an image density of 441pixels-per-inch, capturing the gaze of its users from the outset.
Set to launch in the UK with the 1.6GHz Exynos Octa 5 processor at the end of April, we had access to the still speedy 1.9GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon quad-core version that will launch in other markets. The eight-core processor will be interesting to test out later though, especially as to how Samsung manages to distribute the four large corse and four small cores across the functionalities of the phone, without being a huge drain on battery life. Something we’ve experienced with the Sony Xperia Z.
Running the latest iteration of Google’s OS, Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean, the Samsung Galaxy S4 is powered by a hearty 2600mAh battery, which we’ve not yet had a chance to test for longevity, especially when used intensively.
Pairing a 13-megapixel rear snapper with a 2-megapixel camera in the front, Samsung has really gone to town with the camera functionalities in the Samsung Galaxy S4. Both heavily rumoured to feature in the latest flagship, Smart Scroll and Smart Pause are present. Smart Scroll cleverly moves down the page the user is reading, scrolling up and down using the accelerometer built-into the phone. Smart Pause pauses the currently watched content as soon as the user looks away from the screen for more than a second, guaranteeing that they won’t miss anything if their attention happens to be distracted.
Other features for the camera duo of the Samsung Galaxy S4 include dual shooting functionality, capable of capturing stills and videos with both cameras simultaneously.
The new version of Samsung’s TouchWiz UI also offers a full cast of new features including the Air Gesture and Air Swipe contact-free phone access. Air Gesture allows users to swipe through content without having to touch the screen, instead hovering a finger over the screen like it is possible to with Samsung’s S Pen stylus and tablets. Air View uses the same non-contact technology to give the user a preview of content when hovered over.
With the Samsung Galaxy S4 UK release date set for April 26, the eight-core handset will do away with the Pebble Blue of the S3, instead shipping in two colour varieties of White Frost and Black Mist.
Upgraded innards, an increased screen size with reduced bezel and devilishly good looks, alongside a raft of new features looks like the Samsung Galaxy S4 will take over from its predecessor, settling comfortably at the top of the market.
Is this the best Smartphone on the market, not only the best Android currently on offer? Let us know your thoughts via the TrustedReviews Facebook and Twitter pages or the comments below.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
