Smarter Phone: Samsung Galaxy S7
Samsung, one of the largest manufacturers of smart phone devices, has welcomed a new addition to its family.
Named the Samsung S7 4G+ and S7 edge 4G+, the new devices give us innovative and improved services. We had the chance to test out the new smart phone at Samsung’s consumer carnival, S7 Delights, last week and learnt more about what the Galaxy S7 series has to offer.
[UPDATE] If you were hoping to learn that there is a more luxurious option here, then you’re in luck. A UK based firm, Truly Exquisite, is currently taking pre-orders for those who would like a Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge in precious metal finishes. Available in 24-carat gold, platinum, and 18-carat rose gold finishes, the smartphones will be presented in a wooden display box and will include a Samsung Gear VR as well as a Wireless Charging Pad. With a free worldwide shipping, dispatch is expected to be 21 days after the official release and priced at £1700 (SGD $3,343).
The Galaxy S7 4G+ measures in at 5.1 inches while its counterpart the Galaxy S7 edge 4G+ is slightly larger at 5.5 inches. Equiped with a Dual pixel camera that boasts an aperture of f1.7 and 1.4μm pixels, it produces images that are sharp even under low light conditions. The 3D curved glass and metal ensure durability along with a firm and comfortable grip. With an IP68 certification, the device is not waterproof but is water and dust resistant. This means that it is protected against the entry of solid foreign objects and water at up to 1.5 metres for a maximum of 30 minutes. While the specs of the device are impressive, we were more interested in the new features that were intoduced.
Shopaholics will love one of the new features of Samsung Pay. Compatible with NFC (Near Field Communication), MST (Magnetic Secure Transmission) and barcode technology, you can leave those cards behind when you shop. Simply wave the S7 at the side of the payment device and you are good to go. This is proprietary technology, by the way, because only Samsung currently offers a solution that bridges NFC and MST. Better than online shopping, this is one we can’t wait to be rolled out to a larger market in future. Oh, did we mention the special connection the S7 has with the BMW i8?
By pairing the smartphone with the car, the consumer is able to control the air temperature, locks, engine amongst others with the click of a button (or in this case, a tap on the screen). We only hope that this feature can be introduced to other car models in future.
Another perk of owning the Samsung Galaxy S7 4G+ and Galaxy S7 edge 4G+ is the first-ever Samsung Concierge, a service exclusive to those in Singapore. The suite of premium value added services, is the result of Samsung addressing the needs of its customers. For a flat one time fee of S$38, you can enjoy five different elements that would usually cost you a total of S$960.
We start with the New Yearly Phone, that allows you to enjoy an early upgrade fee waiver from your carrier from the 12th month onwards. For those without a contract, you can enjoy S$350 off your next Galaxy smartphone. With the concierge service, customers can also enjoy a one-time on-site personalized assistance and repair right at their doorstep within the first year of purchase.
Under the exclusive service, there will also be a one-time 50% discount on any out-of-warranty repairs from cracked screens to liquid damages within the first year along with a 30-day one-to-one exchange promise due to any functional defects. The icing on the cake for those enjoying the concierge service, is the hassle-free data transfer when switching to a new Galaxy smartphone, using the Samsung Smart Switch.
While the Samsung Galaxy S7 4G+ and Galaxy edge 4G+ is the only model to be included in the program, consumers can expect more Galaxy models to be included in future.The Galaxy S7 4G+ and S7 edge 4G+ will be available from March 12 in Black Onyx, Gold Platinum and Silver Titanium at all local telecommunication operators, major consumer electronics stores and authorised retailers and Samsung Experience Stores.
The Samsung Galaxy S7 4G+ will cost S$998 while the Samsung Galaxy S7 edge 4G+ will cost S$1,098.