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iPhone 4 vs. Galaxy S, part deux: HD video playback (video)
We just couldn't leave this face-off of superscreens alone, and went back for another bite at the cherry. Admittedly, we found out the Galaxy S had a browser-specific brightness setting that we hadn't maxed out before setting off our camera hounds, so we've gone and remedied earlier comparison shots with the gallery below, and just as a bonus, we've now also run a HD video clip on both phones. This was to see how the Hummingbird and A4 SOCs, considered close siblings, handled some taxing video work and also to again compare performance deep down on the pixel level. What we can tell you now is that both handsets chewed through the 1080p HD clip with ease and that both gave results we have no hesitation in describing as sublime. Click past the break for the up close and personal video comparison action. N.B. -- We ran a 1080p clip on both phones' respective YouTube apps over WiFi. Although we're certain from the quality of the video that it was at least 720p, we can't say for sure that it was the full 1080 enchilada.%Gallery-96333%
iPhone 4 Retina Display vs. Galaxy S Super AMOLED... fight! (updated)
If the title of this post isn't enough to entice you, we don't know what else to say. We've gone and run some sunlit comparisons between Apple's brand spanking new phone's Retina Display and Samsung's equally fresh and exclusive Super AMOLED panel on the Galaxy S. We don't know if we'll be able to settle the argument, but we're certainly going to subject both superphones to an expansive visual inspection. Follow us after the break for video exploration of this most pressing topic. Update: Due to the Galaxy S having a separate setting for browser brightness, which we didn't max out in the original investigation, we've gone back and collected some truly 100 percent illuminated pictures. See the gallery after the break. Keep in mind that this shouldn't discredit most of the work done here, as we were more interested in pixel-level detail than brightness.%Gallery-96227%
T-Mobile USA's Samsung Galaxy S to be called 'Vibrant'
So, we know AT&T's version of the Galaxy S is called the Captivate -- but what about T-Mobile? Earlier rumors that it'd be called "Vibrant" are all but confirmed today thanks to a carrier-run site that's slowly revealing a rebus puzzle... and so far, we can clearly see Sam + Sun + G and Viking - King + [unknown] + Ant. So yeah, that pretty much locks it up -- and with a Super AMOLED display on board, we'd say the name fits perfectly (and TmoNews claims to have the original image anyway, where the unknown portion is Bee + R). We're expecting some sort of US-focused Galaxy S announcement out of Sammy next Tuesday, so we imagine this'll be it.
Samsung plans to double its smartphone share by end of year, jump ahead of HTC and Motorola
More than 10% of worldwide smartphone market share: that's where Samsung plans to be, on triple its current handset volume, by the end of 2010 according to Lee Donjoo, senior VP of the company's Mobile Communications division. Mind you, such a jump would be staggering in terms of growth with Samsung owning less than 5% of global smartphone market share currently. A move to 10% would place them at number 4 globally according to IDC's numbers, behind Nokia, RIM, and Apple. The Android-lovin' Galaxy S / AT&T Captivate is good, but is it that good? We'll see. Regardless, the term "smartphone" can be defined many ways, and we suspect that Samsung's new Bada OS being pushed into devices previously classified as featurephones could help pad Samsung's numbers.
Hacker finds root for Samsung's Galaxy S
We've seen the inside of the hardware for Samsung's Galaxy S, and now a Russian coder who goes by the name LeshaK is ready to take you down to the core of the software -- despite himself not actually having one of the phones. He's posted a kernel that you can apply for easy unpacking or, if that's not your thing, provided the commands you can use to do it yourself, which look to be as simple as changing the permissions on 'su' and then re-flashing the phone with the new, lighter restrictions. We're not able to test this ourselves, but a few users are reporting infinitely looping reboots when trying to apply this, so we'd advise reading the entire thread on the other end of that source link before you go ahead and ruin your whole Wednesday. [Thanks, Amit]
Exclusive: Samsung Captivate for AT&T preview
AT&T may have been accused of crippling its Android phones, but the Samsung Captivate -- one of the US versions of the Galaxy S -- is about to change all of that. Oh sure, the company released the specs last week, but us resourceful folk got some hands-on time with the Super AMOLED-boasting, Android 2.1 phone prior to its unknown stateside launch. The model we got to play with was clearly an early build (it wasn't even branded Samsung or AT&T), but that didn't stop us from putting it through the paces at a local Starbucks. Hit the break for a bulleted breakdown of our impressions and a short hands-on video. Oh, and don't forget to make a pit stop at the gallery below before getting into the good stuff. %Gallery-95992%
Engadget Mobile Podcast 043 - 06.21.2010
The latest Engadget Mobile Podcast, finally available as a hi-fi download, finds Chris and Myriam deep in the throes of discriminating phone fandom (e.g., Phandom). Hear the pair wallow through oceans of new handsets from Nokia, Samsung, and HTC as they make sense of this week's mobile hardware landscape and answer your questions about how and when to buy your next phone. Hosts: Chris Ziegler, Myriam Joire (tnkgrl)Producer: Trent WolbeMusic: Daestro - Light Powered (Ghostly International)01:08 - Nokia N8 preview01:20 - Nokia N8 meets Bluetooth mouse and keyboard, has a good time (video)10:34 - Nokia E73 Mode review17:03 - T-Mobile confirms free phone offer for family plans this Saturday21:32 - iPhone 4 pre-orderers overwhelm servers, world on the brink of ending28:05 - iPhone 4 is unlocked in Canada, too30:44 - Exclusive: Motorola Droid X preview36:43 - T-Mobile's Samsung Galaxy S outed by way of FCC?38:50 - Samsung Captivate is AT&T's version of the Galaxy S, launching 'in the coming months'42:00 - HTC Aria review52:27 - Listener questionsHear the podcastSubscribe to the podcast[iTunes] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in iTunes[RSS MP3] Add the Engadget Mobile Podcast feed (in MP3) to your RSS aggregator and have the show delivered automatically[RSS AAC] Add the Engadget Mobile Podcast feed (in enhanced AAC) to your RSS aggregator[Zune] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in the Zune MarketplaceDownload the podcastLISTEN (MP3)LISTEN (AAC)Contact the podcastpodcast (at) engadgetmobile (dot) com.Follow us on Twitter@zpower @tnkgrl @engadgetmobile
Super AMOLED vs AMOLED vs LCD in direct sunlight... fight! (video)
By now you know that (one of) AMOLED's Achilles' heel is readability in direct sunlight. But Samsung's been working hard to fix that with its new Super AMOLED technology. Techblog took the display to task by pitting the Samsung Galaxy S (4-inch, 480 x 800 pixel Super AMOLED) against the HTC Desire (3.7-inch 480 x 800 pixel AMOLED) and Sony Ericsson XPERIA X10 (4-inch, 480 x 854 pixel TFT LCD). It's clear from the video embedded after the break that the LCD still has the edge in the harsh Greek sun, but the Super AMOLED certainly makes a much stronger showing than its AMOLED sib. In fact, differences in visibility between the LCD and Super AMOLED are often indistinguishable, like the picture above. That'll be good news for us just as soon as Samsung can start meeting demand... regardless of what Stevie J has to say. Check the video after the break and be sure to click the source for some more side-by-side pics, including a few taken indoors where that Super AMOLED display really shines.
Samsung Galaxy S Pro specs leak out?
Can't confirm these ourselves, but if Android Central's sources are to be believed, these Samsung Galaxy S Pro specs are mighty impressive. Here's what we're looking at: a Sammy-borne 1GHz ARM Cortex A8 processor, a Super AMOLED screen that may or may not be the same 4-inch, 800 x 480 window on the Galaxy S, a strong QWERTY slider with raised keys, front-facing VGA camera, 5 megapixel back camera with 720p video recording capabilities, WiMAX support, and Android 2.1 with some TouchWiz 3.0 customizations. As for qualms, the source does drop "plastic-y" a couple times in a none-too-flattering light. Still, for those who find a lack of physical keys a dealbreaker for the EVO 4G, this might end up being a proper alternate. We'll have to wait and see -- not too long, right Sammy? [Thanks, Ulf S.]
Samsung Captivate is AT&T's version of the Galaxy S, launching 'in the coming months'
So much for the "AT&T refuses to release high-end Android devices" conspiracy theory, eh? T-Mobile had been widely pegged as Samsung's launch partner for the Galaxy S in the States, but AT&T stole its thunder this morning by announcing the Captivate featuring a 4-inch Super AMOLED display, Android 2.1, 7.2Mbps HSPA, and a 1GHz Hummingbird processor. If it sounds more or less like the European Galaxy S, well, your intuitions are spot-on -- AT&T actually describes the Captivate as "a Galaxy S smartphone." As for media, you can expect a 5 megapixel camera with 720p recording, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and 16GB of onboard storage combined with support for external storage for a total of up to 32GB; you also have 802.11n WiFi and a variety of built-in apps (some of which you'll want, others you won't) like Swype and AT&T Navigator. Unfortunately, this is a little while out yet -- AT&T is only saying that it'll launch "in the coming months" for an undisclosed price -- but we're at least stoked that AT&T's finally fully entrenched in the Android superphone game. Follow the break for the full press release.
Samsung Galaxy S preview
Just because the US has gone gaming crazy these past couple of days doesn't mean the smartphone world has stopped turning. Samsung trotted out its Galaxy S handset last night in London, and we were naturally there to try and glean a better understanding of where this 4-inch Android 2.1 device fits in our wishlist hierarchy. It's quite the stat sheet stuffer, as we're sure you're aware, and it strikes an alluring figure for those looking to get on the true do-it-all smartphone bandwagon. Check out our latest impressions -- replete with video and a whole gallery dedicated to the Super AMOLED screen's performance in sunlight -- just past the break.%Gallery-95331%
T-Mobile's Samsung Galaxy S outed by way of FCC?
We've already heard enough talk -- both from our own tipsters and other publications -- to say with some level of confidence that T-Mobile plans on unleashing the mighty Galaxy S at some point in the next month or two, but is this the smoking gun? There's now a phone called the SGH-T959 in the FCC's certification database that features AWS 3G support, and while external photos are rudely left out, the device's outline clearly mimics that of the generic, unbranded Galaxy S that we've been seeing since its unveiling back in March. At any rate, we've got this Samsung Android event coming up stateside here in a couple weeks, so we should figure it all out then.
Samsung Galaxy S gets torn down, looks equally beautiful on the inside (video)
You'll be hard pressed to find a sane individual who'd argue that Samsung's Galaxy S isn't a lust-worthy piece of kit on the outside, and after watching the video past the break, we doubt you'll get too many takers on proving things unsightly within. Equipped with a Super AMOLED display and a bit of that Hummingbird goodness within, there weren't too many bits and pieces to tear apart. What was found, however, leaves a new appreciation for steady hands. Go on, give it a look-see -- the real deal will be out and about before you know it.
Samsung Galaxy S taking UK pre-orders, Vodafone promises June 15 delivery
Were you looking forward to purchasing a 16GB smartphone with unique screen technology and an app-centric OS this month? Great, because the Galaxy S pre-order has now gone live in the UK, offering a delivery only four days away from now and prices that are pretty much par for the superphone course. If you want the Super AMOLED machine for free, minimum monthly cost will be steep, starting out at £35 ($51) a pop over 24 months or £40 ($58) over 18 lunar cycles. Both those deals furnish you with 900 minutes of talk time, unlimited texts, and 1GB of 3G data, but the latter works out to be the better value as it tallies up to £720 ($1,045) in total investment over the full term. Then again, most of what Vodafone has on tap compares favorably to the madness O2 is asking iPhone 4 buyers to pony up.
Samsung teases next Android announce, Galaxy S bound for T-Mobile next month?
It's no secret that Samsung wants to spread its high-end Galaxy S far and wide, but the exact details of its US attack have been a mystery thus far. TmoNews is reporting a "trusted source" as saying that the phone is pegged for a launch on T-Mobile on July 21, which matches up with some chatter we've been hearing as well. Though T-Mobile's been supporting Android as aggressively as any carrier in the world, the company lacks a hero device -- something akin to the Droid Incredible or EVO 4G -- so it would stand to reason that Samsung's best Android gear to date would be a good fit over there. Nothing wrong with a Super AMOLED display in a sub-10mm shell, now, is there? In the meantime, we've been invited to an event on June 29 to see "the next generation in Android smartphones" from Sammy, so we're hoping for some more details then -- and naturally, we'll be on hand.
Samsung Galaxy S launches in Europe, hitting US 'later this year'
So that simultaneous global launch isn't going to materialize quite as we were told, but Samsung is indeed bringing the Galaxy S to the widest possible audience. The Korean giant has made its 2010 flagship official in Europe today, meaning you should be able to sign your life away to your favorite carrier in exchange for it very soon indeed. We're told the 4-incher will be making its American debut later in the year, though a protracted delay appears unlikely. Pricing on the Galaxy S might not turn out to be all that democratic, but its comprehensive choice of more than 100 global carriers sure will be, and might suggest we'll get a choice of networks when the phone finally makes its way Stateside. Hang tight, gringos, not long to go now.
Samsung Galaxy S set for simultaneous launch in 110 countries, probably this month
According to the Korea IT Times, Samsung will be taking quite an unusual route with the launch of its upcoming flagship, the Galaxy S, by releasing it simultaneously in 110 countries around the world. Sure, it seems as much a publicity stunt as anything else, but this move indicates both a confidence in Super AMOLED supplies and, more importantly, a rapidly approaching date for the Galaxy S' retail availability. We already knew that it'll be arriving in Asia this month, so assuming this global debut is working to the same schedule, most developed countries will get their taste of Samsung's latest before the first half of the year is through. Neat, then we can pit one of these against an iPhone 4G and figure out which has the more gorgeous display. [Thanks, Martin]
Samsung Galaxy S will hit Asia in June, get Froyo later
Samsung has just let the cat out of the bag regarding its top of the line Galaxy S, which is set to make its global debut in Asian markets this June. Unsubsidized, this 4-inch beastie will cost you S$1,098 (or around $775), which might be a little on the steep side, but then this is one of only a pair of Super AMOLED handsets on the market and Samsung makes the other one. And in case you want an alternative closer to home, Amazon's German portal is now listing the Galaxy S for pre-order at €649, which works out to about the same price. The best news from today, however, is probably Samsung's official confirmation that the phone will be getting an Android 2.2 upgrade at some point in its future. No specifics are given as yet, but we'll take our Froyo whenever and wherever we can get it. [Thanks, Rob]
Samsung Galaxy S and Wave 'coming soon' to Vodafone UK
Perhaps eager to steal some of the thunder from Everything Everywhere's recent debut, Vodafone has updated its Coming Soon page to show a selection of new handsets, which is highlighted by Samsung's pair of Super AMOLED beasts, the Wave and Galaxy S. The Wave brings the new Bada sensibility to British shores, while the Galaxy S will be pretty much the most advanced Android handset the UK has yet seen. It runs version 2.1 with Samsung's own skin on top, but it's the hardware behind it that'll be pushing Brits to upgrade. Hit the source link to peruse the full list, which also includes the new BlackBerry Pearl 3G, but do remember to be patient -- an Amazon pre-order listing for the Wave (priced at £350, or 521 greenbacks) indicates a one to three month waiting period.
Samsung Galaxy S hits the FCC with AT&T bands onboard
It wasn't even a week ago that we deduced the eventual launch of Samsung's Galaxy S Android phone on AT&T, and now here we are looking at FCC documents confirming Ma Bell's favorite frequencies. So much for intrigue and mystery. Of course, Samsung could have just filed the testing paperwork to cover devices headed to Canada and Mexico, so this doesn't mean it's a lock -- especially since this phone is labeled as the i9000, not the SGH-i867 number we were sort of expecting. Either way, it looks like the rabid Samsung fanboys out there will be able to get their TouchWiz all up on Stateside 3G at some point -- and isn't that all you can expect from this world?
