Samsung has snubbed Aussie retailers with news its first 5G-capable smartphone, the Galaxy S10 5G, will release exclusively to Telstra and Samsung Experience Stores from May 28.
The Korean giant claims the Galaxy S10 5G performs at a level “never before seen in a Samsung device”, with the richest feature set offered to date.
The news further intensifies retail competition, with more consumer electronics brands promoting direct to consumer sales.
Recognising the infancy of 5G, some commentators question what carrier deals rival smartphone companies will ink, and when 5G handsets will hit mainstream retailers.
Samsung asserts the handset’s launch delivers on “years of collaboration” with Telstra.
It follows Telstra’s CES 2019 announcement citing an ‘exclusive’ agreement with several smartphone brands to stock 5G devices in the first half of 2019.
“This will be a game-changing moment for our customers,” asserts Telstra Consumer Segment Executive, Kevin Teoh.
“Telstra has been building Australia’s first 5G technology for some time, and now our customers are ready to be the first in Australia to experience this technology in the areas where 5G is now available.”
The device grants access to ultra-high 5G speeds – e.g. downloading a full length movie in seconds, and enhancing high intensity applications such as AR, VR, gaming and video conferencing.
The new Samsung Galaxy S10 5G boasts a 6.7-inch Infinity-O Display, plus a 4,500mAh battery with Super-Fast charging capabilities.
The handset will be available in either a 256GB or 512GB memory variant, in either Crown Silver and Majestic Black colour options.
Accompanying mobile plans will be announced closer to the local on-sale date of May 28.
“The Galaxy S10 5G is designed to perform at a level that we have never before seen in a Samsung device,” asserts Samsung Electronics Australia VP of IT and Mobile, Garry McGregor.
“From its 3D Depth Camera to 5G network capability, we’re delivering the ultimate in terms of innovation, design, and experience.”
“The is the most anticipated device Samsung has ever launched in Australia as it combined additions to our amazing Galaxy range but also opens the door to the opportunities that 5G experiences will bring people in the future.”
To incentivise the shift, Telstra is offering consumers who purchased the Galaxy S10+ during the eligibility period earlier this year a free upgrade to the Galaxy S10 5G.
Eligible customers will have 21 days from May 28 to redeem the offer.
Samsung asserts the Galaxy S10 5G builds on the most popular features of the S10 Series, whilst giving customers high-speed mobile wherever 5G and 4GX is available.
Incorporating six cameras, the handset boasts a 16MP Ultra Wide Camera with 123-degree field of vision, plus Live Focus video camera, and new 3D Depth Camera.
The Galaxy S10 5G’s rear camera capabilities received an overall DxOMark rating of 112, with a score of 117 for still camera performance.
The device is said to be the first camera to receive a DxOMark score of 100 for video capabilities.
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