Tag Archives: Samsung

Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S9 Gets Special Fan Edition Treatment with Two Variants

Samsung’s Fan Edition isn’t just for the Galaxy S23 FE this year, it’s expanding beyond just its smartphone. This year, the Galaxy Tab S9 and Galaxy Buds lineups are also getting affordable, scaled-back Goldilocks versions under the ‘FE’ moniker. The Galaxy Tab S9 is getting a little bit of special treatment with two devices getting the FE treatment – the Galaxy Tab S9 FE and Tab S9 FE+. Where the “+” plays a significant part in how the devices have been designed and optimised.

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The Galaxy Tab S9 series takes the baton from the Tab S7 FE. The new series of tablets brings some of the features from the recently announced Galaxy Tab S9 series to a more affordable price point. It’s also upping the ante from its predecessor. While the tablets don’t come with the top-of-the-line Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, it comes with the capable Exynos 1380 chipset.

Both tablets in the Galaxy Tab S9 FE series bring substantial improvements in the display department. The Tab S9 FE boasts a 10.9-inch TFT LCD panel, while the Tab S9 FE+ steps it up with a larger 12.4-inch TFT LCD panel. Yes, these sizes are on par with the Tab S9 and S9+. However, they only come with a refresh rate of up to 90Hz and an FHD+ resolution. The tablets also come with Samsung’s Vision Booster technology that enhances outdoor visibility by optimizing colour and contrast, making the tablets usable even in challenging lighting conditions.

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These tablets aren’t just about performance; they also focus on sustainability. Both the Galaxy Tab S9 FE and the Tab S9 FE+ are crafted from recycled materials, including pre-consumer recycled aluminium and post-consumer recycled plastics. While they might not be used in 100% of the tablets, they are prominent in select components. Both models, along with the included S Pen, boast an IP68 rating, ensuring dust resistance and the ability to withstand accidental water exposure.

Samsung has also upped its game in the camera department. The FE features an 8-megapixel rear camera and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide front camera. In contrast, the FE+ comes equipped with a dual camera setup on the back with an 8-megapixel main sensor complemented with an 8-megapixel ultra-wide rear camera and the same 12-megapixel ultra-wide front camera. These cameras come with the same software features we’ve seen in the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 series including auto-framing.

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Battery capacity in the FE+ is impressive, with a 10,090mAh unit that can last up to 20 hours of video playback on a single charge. The Tab S9 FE, although slightly smaller in size, still packs a decent 8,000mAh battery. Samsung claims that the battery can go from 0% to 100% in just 90 minutes.

The tablets come with two storage options: 128GB or 256GB. These tablets come with the option to expand storage up to 1TB using a microSD card. When it comes to RAM they come with either 6GB, 8GB or 12GB.

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Both tablets support 5G, WiFi 6 and Bluetooth. They will also be running on Android 13 and One UI 5. Samsung promises four generations of OS upgrades and five years of security updates. When it comes to apps, they come with support for a range of creative tools and apps, including Goodnotes, LumaFusion, and Clip Studio Paint.

Pricing and Availability

The Galaxy Tab S9 FE series will be priced from USD$449 (MYR2,128.97) or €529 (MYR2,633.45) internationally. Both tablets will be available for purchase starting October 10 in Mint, Grey, Lavender and Silver.

In Malaysia, the tablet will be priced from MYR2,099. Both tablets will be available in Malaysia from October 10, 2023. Detailed pricing is listed below.

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The Fan Edition Returns with the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE

After over a year’s hiatus, the latest addition to the Fan Edition (FE) series, the Galaxy S23 FE is finally here. It looks like a worthy successor to the Samsung S21 FE which preceded it. Taking its cues from Samsung’s preceding smartphones this year. It comes in a clean, single-slab design with a coloured back and a metallic frame.

Samsung Galaxy S23 FE 10
Source: Samsung

The Galaxy S23 FE boasts an “Advanced 4nm Processing,” which should translate to either a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 chip, depending on your location. While it departs from the “for Galaxy” chips of 2023 phones, it’s still a major step up from the Galaxy S21 FE’s Snapdragon 888 or Exynos 2100. Plus, this year’s base model offers 8GB of RAM, showing up the previous 6GB option.

When it comes to storage, options include 128GB or 256GB, with no microSD expansion. Although 256GB should satisfy most users, it’s worth noting that these options align with the capacities available for the S23 and S23+.

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One of the standout improvements is the main camera, which is now a 50MP sensor. This is a significant jump from the S21 FE’s 12-megapixel main sensor. However, the ultrawide, a 10-megapixel sensor with a 123° field of view, and telephoto, an 8-megapixel sensor with 3x optical zoom, cameras remain at lower resolutions comparatively. Surprisingly, Samsung has opted for a 10-megapixel selfie camera on the Galaxy S23 FE, a downgrade from the 32-megapixel sensor of its predecessor.

The display of the Galaxy S23 FE is a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel with an FHD+ resolution. It also sports a 120Hz refresh rate which can dynamically adapt to on-screen content. It’s a smartphone that has a Goldilocks size fitting comfortably between the S23 and S23+. In terms of dimensions, it’s slightly larger and heavier than its predecessor but feels solid with an aluminium frame and Gorilla Glass 5 protection.

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The 4,500mAh battery capacity remains unchanged from the Galaxy S23 FE’s predecessor. It also supports wired charging at 25W significantly less than the 45W of the S23 and S23+. However, Samsung promises a 50% charge with 30 minutes of charging. It also supports wireless charging. Like its predecessors, the Galaxy S23 FE offers IP68 dust and water resistance.

When it comes to software support, it’s in line with other high-end Samsung devices, promising four OS updates and five years of security patches. Out of the box, it runs One UI 5.1 on top of Android 13. The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is taking it a step further with a body constructed from recycled materials including an aluminium frame made from recycled aluminium. It also incorporates pre-consumer glass and post-consumer plastics sourced from items like fishing nets and PET bottles.

Pricing & Availability

The Galaxy S23 FE is priced from USD$599.99 (MYR2,838.89) for the 128GB model. That’s a significant $100 drop compared to the Galaxy S21 FE’s launch price and USD$200 less than the price of the Galaxy S23.

In Malaysia, the Galaxy S23 FE will officially be priced at MYR2,999 for the 128GB version and MYR3,299 for the 256GB version.

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It will be available in Mint, Graphite, Purple and Cream with Tangerine and Indigo available exclusively on Samsung.com.

It’s expected to hit the market on October 10th in Malaysia and October 26th in the US. Like all Samsung devices, it will be available through various carriers and retailers.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 In-Depth Review: Bigger is Better… But What Else?

Flip, Fold, Open, Close – Foldables seem to be all the rage as more and more companies continue to weigh in on the new form factor. From sleek, shiny folding clamshells to thinner-than-you-can-imagine folding tablets, that’s the current climate of the smartphone market. But, as more companies start releasing their foldables, it’s becoming more difficult to differentiate and stand out from the noise.

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The Galaxy Z Flip5 is Samsung’s fourth iteration of their pioneering Galaxy Z Flip lineup and it makes some strides when it comes to functionality and features. However, is that enough for Samsung to stand out? Or will it simply get lost in the crowd? We’re taking a deep dive into the smartphone and its new features to find out just that.

Design

The Galaxy Z Flip5 is not a revolutionary update when it comes to design. Instead, Samsung has made small, incremental updates to the design in response to consumer feedback and also to accommodate the many features that it introduced.

The Flip5, like its predecessor, is very focused on being a fashionable addition to your tech gear. Its svelte form factor is meant to be easy on the eyes, light in hand and a statement piece when it comes to your outfit. It’s built to accessorize and be functional.

The biggest, most obvious change this year is the top half of the Flip being jet black. This is done to accommodate the upsized 3.4-inch display that now emblazons the top half. Samsung has also opted to keep the Flip5 colourful as a lineup with a selection of seven colours at launch with more options sure to come as the year progresses. However, the pastel palette of the Flip5 is lost and subdued even further by the jet-black upper half, leaving the phone feeling rather drab. Most colours appear white or slightly off-white after a while.  We experienced this with the Mint colour of the review unit we had.

The other design change is the reduction and removal of the visible gap between the two halves when closed. While this is a major aesthetic change, it doesn’t affect the functionality. The biggest impact it had in our review period was making it harder to open the Flip with a single hand. This was just because there wasn’t a place to leverage to push the hinge open. Speaking of the hinge, Samsung has changed its design to minimize moving parts which also allowed for the removal of the gap. The only complaint we have with this design change is that it seemed to make the crease more apparent. It felt deeper, and more pronounced on the Flip5 than it was on the Flip4.

Other than that, the Galaxy Z Flip5 is still a pretty little thing when it comes to design. It’s made a few functional tweaks that leave it feeling refreshed. However, it feels like Samsung needs to refine the design a little bit more to get to that perfect balance of aesthetics and functionality.

Hardware

Hardware-wise, the Z Flip5, feels like a repeat performance of the Z Flip4. Of course, that doesn’t include the larger cover display which plays a prominent role in the improved functionality of the smartphone.

Specifications

 ProcessorQualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm)
Octa-Core @ 1×3.36GHz Cortex-X3, 2×2.8GHz Cortex-A715, 2×2.8GHz Cortex-A710 &  3×2.0GHz Cotex-A510
RAM8GB (As Tested)
Memory256GB (As Tested) 512GB
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)Adreno 740
Main DisplayFoldable AMOLED 2X panel
6.7-inch (~425 PPI)
1080×2640 pixels FHD+ resolution 22:9 Aspect Ratio 120Hz Refresh rate
Cover DisplaySuper AMOLED panel 3.4-inches (~306ppi) 720×748 pixels resolution Gorilla Glass Victus
Operating SystemAndroid 13 with One UI 5.1.1
BatteryNon-Removable 3,7000mAh Li-Po
Fast Charging (25W)
Fast Wireless Charging (15W) Reverse Wireless Charging (4.5W) USB-PD 3.0
ConnectivityNano SIM 5G/4G LTE/EVDO/HSPA/CDMA/GSM
Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e(ax) GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS
A2DP
Bluetooth 5.3
OTG Support
USB 3.2 Type-C
CameraREAR:
Dual Sensor:
12-megapixel (f/1.8, 1/1.16″, 24mm (wide angle), 1.8µm Dual Pixel Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF) Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS)   12-Megapixel (f/2.2,123˚ (ultrawide), 1.12µm) HDR10+
LED Flash
4K Video recording (30/60fps)
1080p Video recording (60/240fps) 720p Video recording (960fps)
FRONT:
10-Megapixel (f/2.2, 23mm (wide), 1.22µm)
4K video recording (30fps)
SensorAccelerometer
Proximity
Fingerprint (side-mounted)
Gyroscope
Compass Barometer Samsung Pay
MiscellaneousSingle SIM/eSIM

Retail Price (Malaysia)MYR 4,499 (256GB) MYR 4,999 (512GB)
Retail Price (US)USD$ 999.99 (256GB) USD$ 1,199.99 (512GB)

User Interface

OneUI continues to homogenise the Samsung ecosystem when it comes to mobile devices. The user interface of the Flip5 is for better or worse – the same. However, there is one caveat Samsung has introduced a lot of features when it comes to the cover screen and the folding form factor.  While not much has been done in terms of better adapting the UI to the longer 22:9 aspect ratio, they have introduced features which make apps look better optimised for the display.

Samsung’s focus when it came to UI this generation is undoubtedly on Flex Mode. The company has put its weight behind some apps like Facebook, Instagram, and the Google Suite to better utilise Flex Mode. In Malaysia, we have apps from companies like ZUS coffee, Family Mart and Maxis that have been optimised to make use of Flex Mode. However, for apps that haven’t been optimised, you have the option to enable the floating Flex Mode trigger which brings up a grey screen at the bottom which functions like a touchpad. Using this touchpad, you can scroll, select, and interact with the active you have in Flex Mode. One of the features I used most in Flex Mode is using the Flip5 on a flat surface to free up my hands during a video call.

Of course, Flex Mode’s features extend to a whole myriad of Samsung apps like the camera. In the camera itself, activating Flex Mode allows you to hold the Flip5 like a camcorder with functions and buttons on the bottom side while the viewfinder remains on the front. Flex Mode also allows you to take selfies with the cover screen and the main cameras.

Speaking of the Cover Display, Samsung’s new approach to it – the Flex Window expands the functionality of the display tremendously. You can now interact more directly with the apps from the cover display itself. You’ll be able to reply to messages with a full on-screen keyboard while reading it. You can create and edit calendar events seamlessly as well. However, the functionality goes into overdrive when you use some of the Good Lock modules. The Multistar module lets you use any app on the with no restrictions. During our time with the device, we tried to do some gaming with it on the Flex Window. While it didn’t feel very comfortable, it was possible to game on the FlexWindow.

While the Galaxy Z Flip5 comes with a larger FlexWindow, it did allow me to properly disconnect from my apps. I found myself striving to not open the Flip throughout the day. I was replying to messages with the FlexWindow while checking my schedule with a simple swipe. The best part is everything and I mean everything was a swipe away. This to me was the best feature of the User Interface hands down.

Performance

The Z Flip5 continues to be one of Samsung’s go-to flagships when it comes to foldables. However, aside from its processor, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 this year, it doesn’t feel like a flagship like its larger sibling the Fold5 or even the Galaxy S23 series.

That said, Samsung’s focus on OneUI does make it a little better with the software optimizations and a killer feature like the FlexWindow.

Multitasking & Productivity

Samsung’s focus on OneUI also trickles into productivity with features like the sidebar, split screen and floating windows playing a huge role when it comes to productivity. While the Flip doesn’t necessarily have the form factor to be a productivity powerhouse, the ability to use 2 apps in split screen and Flex mode makes it functional for people looking to get things done on the go. It also shines when it comes to creating an environment to focus on work thanks to the cover display.

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Multitasking and productivity also get a little bit of a kick with the FlexWindow and more so with Good Lock. The fact that you don’t have to open your phone to get things done is a dream for me. I found myself using the calculator, calendar and to-do list apps from the FlexWindow itself. The voice recording widget made it even easier to quickly capture my thoughts. Samsung’s Notes app also helped accomplish some note-taking and productivity on the go.

Call Quality & Connectivity

With Samsung’s track record with flagship smartphones, it should come as no surprise that the Flip5 has crisp call quality and a bevvy of connectivity options including 5G. The unit we got for review didn’t come with a dual SIM but the Malaysian version of the smartphone does come with support for Dual SIMs. That said, you could leverage the eSIM capabilities of the smartphone to get the same result.

Aside from this, the Galaxy Z Flip5 does come with support for Bluetooth 5.3, and WiFi 6e. Like many of the other Samsung flagships, the Flip5 had no qualms when it comes to connectivity. 5G connectivity was quite fast with commendable performance on 4G LTE as well. If anything, the connectivity on the Flip5 and other Samsung devices, in general, has been a lot more stable than many of its Android competitors.

Bluetooth performance on the Flip5 was also pretty solid. Using the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, I was able to move about while connected to the smartphone. Signal degradation only happened about 30 to 40 meters away from the phone. It was the same even when using the OnePlus Buds2 Pro and the Sony WF-1000XM3.

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Quick Connect and nearby share are boons to the device too. Provided the device you are trying to connect supports it, all you have to do is click one button and your earbuds, speakers or even laptop are connected seamlessly. The option to use nearby share to send large files wirelessly is also a plus. I mean, sending a 100MB file over a nearby share took only 5 minutes and you didn’t have to fumble with cables or finicky wireless pairing.

Gaming

When it came to gaming, the Z Flip5 was a little bit of a challenge. Let’s be straight, you’re not buying a Z Flip5 for its gaming capabilities. However, with a processor like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and extendable RAM, you would expect a little bit more from the device.

While games ran pretty well on the smartphone, the issue we had with it was that it got a little bit warm. Not as bad as the S22+ when we reviewed it, but it did get warm. Of course, this wasn’t with simple games like Candy Crush or Angry Birds. This was with games like Diablo Immortal and Genshin Impact. That said, while it did get a little warm, there were hardly any stuttering or screen tears during gaming sessions.

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Your biggest challenge when it comes to the Flip5 with gaming is the fact that it has a hinge. If you’re playing a horizontal game, you run the risk of over-exerting and bending the hinge the wrong way; and even if you bend it the correct way, your gaming session is disrupted because you accidentally switched off the screen.

However, with games like Pokemon GO, Pokemon TCG Live and Marvel’s Snap, we didn’t feel the hinge as much. The vertical alignment alleviates a lot of the issues we mentioned.

Battery Life

Samsung’s track record with battery life hasn’t been the best but it’s also not the worst. With the Flip5, I was easily able to get a good 7-8 hours with regular use. This was primarily using apps like Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Telegram and Threads. On days where I found myself interacting more with the FlexWindow this easily went up to about 11-13 hours. However, if you are using it constantly, you may find yourself looking for a charger in about 6 hours.

Of course, it should come as no surprise that I only managed to get about 3 hours of continuous gaming time with the Flip5. This was playing Diablo Immortal which can be quite taxing on the battery and processor.

Display

The display of the Galaxy Z Flip5 is one we’re used to seeing in Samsung flagships. The flexible AMOLED 2X and the FHD+ resolution are a good combination. The screen is capable of vivid colours and deep blacks. However, the panel can oversaturate some colours like reds and oranges when pumped up to vivid. In its natural tone mode, it feels a little washed out. These are, however, issues that can be addressed through software updates later on. Samsung’s inclusion of a 120Hz refresh rate is also a plus which brings buttery smooth and fluid animations and a little bit of an edge when it comes to games like PUBG Mobile.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 1

The only thing that takes some getting used to when it comes to the display on the Flip5 is the aspect ratio. With most phones coming with a 16:9 aspect ratio, the 22:9 aspect ratio will seem a little weird at first. You will notice black bars on videos that you usually wouldn’t have any. However, these issues will take a backseat as you continue to use the device.

The FlexWindow or Cover display is the hallmark of this smartphone. The Super AMOLED panel in the FlexWindow does its job pretty well.  It delivers high-quality images with good colour reproduction. You won’t even realise that it only has a 60Hz refresh rate. However, I don’t think Samsung was prepared for users like me who end up using this display more than the main display. But for all the functions that are possible on the screen, it excels at delivering a near-perfect experience.

Cameras

Samsung continues to opt to equip the Flip series with a dual-sensor setup when it comes to cameras. To be very honest, you’re not missing out on much when it comes to camera performance – unless you’re looking for extensive camera performance to be a Pro photographer. Let’s be honest, you’re better off buying a camera at that point. Samsung has packed a bevvy of features into the camera of the Flip5 for users like most of us who want to point and click and not fuss about apertures, shutter speed and the like.

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Samsung continues to prove that more sensors don’t mean better cameras. The Z Flip5’s dual 12-megapixel main cameras are pretty decent. They give you enough options for Zoom and changing to a larger aperture or even landscape shots with an ultrawide mode.  The versatility also means you have options even for a bokeh-licious portrait shot. With super steady mode, you’ll be able to shoot while walking or skating but also it allows for better movement shots.

Up front, the Galaxy Z Flip5 is equipped with a 10-megapixel sensor. One that I didn’t use much as I found myself defaulting to the main sensors. The FlexWindow allowed for better control of selfies using the front cameras. The selfie sensor was only my go-to when it came to video calls. This was mostly cause of the convenience the folding allowed me when using it. It allowed the phone itself to become like a tripod and freed up my hands to do other things.

That said, the images from the selfie camera were still pretty sharp and detailed.

The main camera setup is an unusual combination of two 12-megapixel sensors – a wide sensor with an f/1.8 aperture and an ultrawide one with an f/2.2 aperture. Samsung didn’t even include its variable aperture technology. However, the combination gave relatively good photos. Colours were bright and popped.

That aside, the camera combination allowed the Flip to be a little more versatile than other dual-camera smartphones. While the lack of a telephoto meant that there was no optical zoom, the limited digital zoom allowed for good zoomed-in photos. However, don’t expect the quality to be anything like other smartphones with optical zoom. Pictures beyond 2x or 3x zoom become grainy and unusable. Zoom aside, the phone was still able to adapt to portrait mode and was even able to take close-up shots. The versatility proved to be quite useful during our review period, but it still is no replacement for a DSLR.

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The main camera paired with the cover screen is also a winning combination. The fact that you’re getting stunning selfies thanks to the main sensors is a win in our books. What’s more, you don’t even need to flip the phone open to use them. However, the size does limit the versatility of the cameras. However, that’s not a deal breaker considering you technically can just flip the phone open to use the cameras fully.

Supersizing a Cover Screen and Making it Flex Hard with Functionality while Leaving Users Wanting More in terms of Performance and Upgrades

Saying the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 is an iterative update would be a disservice to the change that the FlexWindow brings to the table when it comes to functionality and productivity. However, when you look at what powers the Z Flip5 and the overall specifications, it seems like Samsung may have been a little too hyper-focused on its update of the Z Flip lineup.

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That said, the focus pays off when it comes to the overall user experience. The hyper-focus allowed Samsung to iron out the kinks and perfecting features that were left to third parties to figure out. Them taking on things like optimising for FlexWindow and FlexMode elevated the user experience significantly making it a more enjoyable user experience that you would be comfortable with even in 3 years. That said, Samsung’s inclusion of an IPX8 rating needs to be recognised as it brings us that much closer to having a foldable that is truly water and dust-resistant and having peace of mind with splashes and accidental spills is a big win.

User experience-wise, it’s a near-perfect update to the Galaxy Z Flip series. However, the only place where the Flip tends to fall short is on the hardware upgrades that it lacks internally. We want to see Samsung up the ante with features like Cameras and RAM to make it even more compelling than their A and S series. Samsung can make a performance powerhouse that’s a foldable and the Z Flip series is the series to prove it. Sadly, the Flip5 isn’t that.

Samsung & Thom Browne Elevate Fashion-Tech Fusion with Galaxy Z Fold5 &Watch6 Limited Editions

Samsung has once again partnered with renowned designer Thom Browne to create an exquisite fusion of technology and fashion. The result? The limited-edition Galaxy Z Fold5 Thom Browne Edition and the Galaxy Watch6 Thom Browne Edition.

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Source: Samsung

This collaboration isn’t new; it’s the latest instalment in a longstanding partnership that began with the Galaxy Z Fold 2. What sets this year’s limited edition apart is its inspiration – the elegance of black-tie events. The Galaxy Z Fold5 Thom Browne Edition is not just a device; it’s a masterpiece. Crafted with black pebble leather and intricate detailing, it proudly showcases Thom Browne’s signature style. The iconic red, white, and blue stripes are prominently displayed on the device’s exterior, while the back glass boasts a tactile fabric texture. A black frame with gold accents and gold rings encircling the camera lenses adds an extra touch of luxury.

But the attention to detail doesn’t end with the device itself. The packaging is designed to provide an exceptional unboxing experience, reminiscent of a Thom Browne high-end briefcase. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s also a collector’s item.

The Galaxy Z Fold5 Thom Browne Edition doesn’t come alone; it includes two exclusive leather pouch cases and a specially crafted S Pen. These accessories not only enhance the style but also the functionality of the device.

Z Fold5 Thom Browne PR dl5
Source: Samsung

And that’s not all. The Galaxy Watch6 also gets the Thom Browne treatment. With its gold-tone body, unique watch face, and Thom Browne logo, it oozes sophistication. The red, white, and blue theme extends to the buckle and two leather straps, creating a seamless and elegant look. Even accessories like the 25W travel adapter, coin-style watch charger, and USB-C to USB-C cable carry Thom Browne’s signature touch.

Pricing & Availability

These exclusive editions will be available in limited quantities starting September 12, 2023, in select markets, including Korea. While the price remains undisclosed, tech and fashion enthusiasts alike can look forward to making their purchases through Samsung’s website.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Astro Edition reaches for the stars

Samsung is back with a mesmerizing blend of tradition and technology in their latest release: the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Astro Edition. Drawing inspiration from ancient astrolabes, this timepiece is more than just a smartwatch; it’s a work of art.

Galaxy Watch 6 Classic Astro

Inspired by ancient astronomy

The Galaxy Watch6 Classic Astro Edition’s standout feature is its astrolabe-inspired bezel. But what exactly is an astrolabe? Think of it as an ancient astronomical calculator used for navigation. Samsung’s innovation lies in reimagining this ancient tool as a functional, rotating bezel on a modern smartwatch.

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This bezel not only adds a touch of sophistication but also serves as an intuitive navigation tool. It retains it standard function of effortlessly scroll through apps and menus with a satisfying click. The highlight are the depictions of constellations, stars, and other lunar bodies, along the top of the bezel.

Honoring the legacy of astronomy in the MENA region

Samsung has chosen to launch their wearable masterpiece exclusively in the MENA region, adding an element of exclusivity to the Galaxy Watch6 Classic Astro Edition. The countries in the region include UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Egypt, Jordan, Türkiye and Morocco.

Samsung stated that the astrolabe was chosen as it “symbolises the (MENA) region’s legacy of scientific and innovative contributions, particularly in time, astronomy and mathematics”. It’s a testament to Samsung’s commitment to tailoring their products to specific markets.

Exclusive astronomy-inspired features

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Beyond its stunning design, this smartwatch packs a punch when it comes to technology. It is only available in the 47mm variant and features all the essential functions you’d expect from a premium smartwatch, including heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and fitness tracking.

On top of that, you get exclusive, astrolabe-inspired complications. These include a compass complication on the dial and solar/lunar phase tracker that lets users track the movement of the sun and moon.

Bridging the past and future on your wrist

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The Samsung Galaxy Watch6 Classic Astro Edition is a celebration of craftsmanship and innovation. It will be available starting 2nd August 2023, with no official pricing available as of yet. There will be an exclusive purchase offer that includes an additional fabric strap, Astro Edition collectibles, and access to Samsung’s VIP exclusive promotion store.

By integrating traditional design elements with modern innovation, Samsung has created a wearable that bridges the past and the future.

Sources: Samsung, GSMArena, SamMobile

Samsung’s Upcoming Mid-Range Galaxy Phones to Get a Boost from AMD RDNA-based Graphics

Samsung’s collaboration with AMD goes beyond flagships.

Not long ago, Samsung and AMD decided to work together to bring better graphics performance to Samsung’s Exynos chipsets. Since then, only the Galaxy S22 models, powered by Samsung’s Exynos 2200 chipset, were equipped with AMD GPUs (graphics processing units). While Samsung may have opted for Qualcomm chips for their next flagship Galaxy S family, the partnership is far from over. In fact, it’s set to extend to mid-range smartphones.

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Source: Samsung

Revegnus (@Tech_Reve), a reliable leaker, has dropped some intriguing information about Samsung’s plans for their upcoming mid-range devices. These smartphones, expected to be announced and released next year, will feature AMD graphics technology. Specifically, the mid-range Exynos chipsets like the 1480 and 1430 will be equipped with mRDNA AMD GPUs.

Now, what makes this move particularly interesting is that these GPUs won’t primarily focus on gaming. While AMD GPUs are known for their prowess in gaming, Samsung’s strategy for their mid-range phones is different. Instead of amping up gaming capabilities, these GPUs will concentrate on improving image signal processing (ISP).

Source: Samsung

This strategic shift aligns with the mid-range smartphone market. Unlike flagship devices, mid-range phones typically don’t boast the hardware required for an enhanced gaming experience – think powerful CPUs, advanced cooling systems, and high-refresh-rate displays. Therefore, focusing on enhancing the ISP is a wise move and would provide a significant performance boost when it comes to smartphone performance.

If these rumours are true, Samsung could leverage the performance improvements from incorporating AMD’s mRDNA technology to bolster its already popular midrange Galaxy A series. As mid-range phones continue to gain popularity, it’s a smart strategy that could pay off handsomely.

[IFA 2023] Samsung Food: Your Ultimate Cooking Companion

Have you ever found yourself overwhelmed by the multitude of recipes you want to try, struggling to keep track of your ingredients, or unsure where to begin with a new dish? Samsung is releasing a new app that could be the solution: Samsung Food, an AI-powered food management platform set to launch on August 31st in 104 countries and eight languages.

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With over 160,000 recipes, Samsung Food simplifies your culinary journey from shopping list to dinner table. This all-in-one service enables you to discover, save, and customize recipes, remotely control your kitchen appliances, and share your favourite dishes with the world.

Personalization for Every Palate

Samsung Food revolves around personalization. Each user gets a unique digital recipe box, making it easy to save recipes from the web or create your culinary creations. The Personalize Recipe function automatically adjusts recipes to meet various customization needs. Whether you prefer vegan, healthier options, or quicker preparation, Samsung Food has you covered. It can even adapt recipes to improve nutrition, create shopping lists, or fuse different cuisines.

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Seamless Food Discovery and Kitchen Connectivity

Samsung Food simplifies food discovery with Vision AI technology. Just snap a photo of a dish or ingredients, and the app identifies the dish, provides ingredient details, links to related recipes, and saves it to your collection. Moreover, Samsung Food connects with Samsung home appliances, synchronizing recipes across your devices and allowing you to control them remotely. You can set timers, preheat ovens, and monitor your dish’s progress from your mobile device or Samsung’s Family Hub refrigerators.

A Global Foodie Community

Samsung Food isn’t just a cooking assistant; it’s a community. Share your culinary creations, discover recipes from fellow food enthusiasts, and follow content creators. You can even create and join dedicated groups based on your culinary interests.

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Samsung Food is a testament to the company’s commitment to enriching your culinary experience. As it continues to evolve, it aims to provide tailored meal recommendations based on your health goals and offer AI-based food recognition in the future, making your kitchen smarter and your meals more enjoyable.

[IFA 2023] Samsung BESPOKE AI Washer & Dryer Combo Here to Help with Laundry

Samsung Electronics has unveiled the BESPOKE AI™ Washer & Dryer Combo, showcasing it at IFA 2023 in Berlin. This all-in-one washer and dryer combo is powered by cutting-edge Digital Inverter Heat Pump technology and is touted to redefine your laundry experience.

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Source: Samsung Electronics

Samsung’s BESPOKE AI Washer and Dryer Combo streamlines your laundry routine into a single, efficient step. You will be able to wash up to 25kg of laundry and dry up to 13kg without sacrificing too much space. Unlike having two separate machines, this combo unit takes up less space, leaving you with more room to spare. Its sleek and flat BESPOKE design can complement your home’s interior, blending seamlessly with other appliances and furniture.

BESPOKE AI for Intelligent Washing Even from your Phone

The BESPOKE AI Washer & Dryer Combo puts control at your fingertips with an intuitive Wide LCD display. The display lets you effortlessly choose washing and drying settings. Once the cycle is complete, it provides informative reports for your reference.

AI Wash intelligently detects the fabric’s weight, softness, and level of soiling based on water turbidity. Using this information, it optimizes water and detergent usage and fine-tunes soaking, rinsing, and spinning times for swift and efficient cleaning.

Nearly everything about the BESPOKE AI Washer and Dryer Combo is automated. After a cycle concludes, the door automatically opens, simplifying laundry retrieval. This also releases humid air and heat while bringing in fresh air to maintain optimal drum conditions. There is also a Heat Exchanger Auto Cleaning System that preserves drying quality. Additionally, the AI Energy Mode, part of SmartThings Energy, enhances energy efficiency.

Speaking of SmartThings, as with all Samsung devices, the Washer and Dryer combo can be remotely controlled with the SmartThings App. You’ll be able to set your washing to complete as you return from the gym or work. It’s also worth noting that the washer and dryer combo can also be controlled via other Matter compliant IoT apps.

Samsung Unveils Specialized TVs for Healthcare Industry

Samsung Electronics has introduced two new display models, the HCU7030 and HCF8000. The two new models are tailored for the healthcare sector. These models aim to enhance user experiences with features such as integrated pillow speaker interfaces, 4K resolution, and HDR performance. They are also Web RTC ready, enabling swift video conferencing integration.

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The HCU7030 is designed for hospital environments, while the HCF8000 is suited for both healthcare and hotel settings. The displays are designed to prioritize patient comfort. The HCU7030 boasts a business management suite for easy device enrollment, and both models offer UL certification and three-pin plugs to uphold safety standards.

The HCU7030 series ranges from 43 to 75 inches, while the sleek 32” QLED HCF8000 fits well in hospitality settings. Both come with a Multi-Code Remote to minimize interference and Web RTC for virtual healthcare assistance.

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Source: Samsung

LYNK Cloud, a comprehensive cloud solution, equips both models with customizable content, remote device management, and access to OTT entertainment. Managers can analyze user engagement and content viewership for an optimized guest experience.

Pricing & Availability

The HCU7030 launches in the U.S. on August 25, and the HCF8000 arrives in the U.S. and Europe in Q4 2023. No public pricing has been announced at this time.

Samsung’s Upping Its Gaming Offerings with a New Odyssey Neo G9 Monitor & Starfield on the Samsung Gaming Hub

Hold onto your seats, gamers – Samsung has just dropped two new gaming monitors: the Odyssey Neo G9 57″ and Odyssey Ark 55″. Freshly unveiled at Gamescom 2023, these monitors are upping the ante for Samsung’s gaming offerings and also making things wider than ever before.

Odyssey Neo G9 57-inch: Immersion Takes Centerstage

The Odyssey Neo G9 57-inch (G95NC) boasts the world’s first Dual Ultra-High-Definition (DUHD) screen. It offers an immersive 1000R curvature that envelops users in the game or content with an expansive field of view. This monitor features Samsung’s Quantum Matrix Technology that utilises the company’s award-winning Quantum Mini LED lighting, delivering deeper blacks and brighter whites while minimising the usual blooming effect.

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The Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 comes with The VESA DisplayHDR™1000 certification. This promises vivid clarity for HDR-enabled content with details even in the darkest shades for your competitive edge and viewing pleasure. It also indicates that HDR content is displayed vividly and authentically, with accurate colours and contrast. The monitor’s impressive 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms grey-to-grey (GtG) response time minimizes blurring, enabling seamless gameplay. It comes complete with AMD FreeSync™ Premium Pro technology which allows high-resolution gaming without graphical tearing and smooth transitions as well as lag-free gaming.

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(Source: Samsung) Full Specs of the Odyssey Neo G9

Connectivity options are robust, featuring VESA-certified DisplayPort (DP) 2.1, HDMI 2.1, and a USB hub. This streamlined setup caters to both gaming and multimedia needs.

Odyssey Ark 55-inch: Elevating Visual Engagement

The Odyssey Ark 55″ builds on its predecessor’s success as the world’s first 1000R curved gaming screen. With a 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms GtG response time, this monitor promises fluid visuals and minimal latency. The addition of Cockpit Mode introduces a fresh perspective with the Ark’s signature vertical orientation.

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Samsung’s MultiView brings the ability to view streams from the three HDMI inputs and DisplayPort 1.4 at the same time; maximising the large 55-inch display of the Ark. This new enhancement improves split-screen capabilities, providing an organized setup for focused gameplay and advanced productivity.

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(Source: Samsung) Full Specs of the Odyssey Ark

One screen to rule them all that is what the new Keyboard, Video, and Mouse (KVM) switch feature is built for. It turns the Odyssey Ark 55-inch into your command center, making it your central interface for multiple connected devices. It enhances multitasking across various devices, simplifying control with a single mouse and keyboard setup.

Gaming Beyond the Monitor: “Starfield” on Samsung Gaming Hub

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It’s not all about the monitors for Samsung at Gamescom either. Bethesda Game Studios’ much-anticipated game, “Starfield,” will be accessible through the Samsung Gaming Hub with an Xbox Game Pass subscription starting September 6. This collaboration offers a new way to access and stream cloud games on supported 2023 TVs and monitors, including the Samsung Neo QLED 8K.