Samsung’s flagship smartphone for 2017, the Galaxy S8, has finally been revealed in a New York-based product showcase event.
Pre-orders will be open for the Galaxy S8 and S8+ from March 31st, with the handset itself launching on April 28th.
The other key features with this iteration of the most popular device on Samsung’s roster are the edge-to-edge bezeless design that’s evolved out of last year’s S7 Edge.
The company say that “the Infinity Display and bezel-less design form a smooth, continuous surface with no buttons or harsh angles. The result is a truly immersive viewing experience without distractions and makes multi-tasking more convenient.”
Like the Note 7, it also comes certified to display HDR video – a feature even Samsung’s closest rivals have yet to follow-up.
Along with the Infinity Display, the Galaxy S8 will feature the same Gorilla Glass and IP68 water and dust resistance found in the best of last year’s Samsung devices. However, a key difference between the S8 and S7 is the absence of the home button. The central key has been pushed underneath the screen “using a combination of hardware and software.”
Specwise, the Galaxy S8 will run on a 2.3Ghz octa-core processor, 4GBs or RAM and 64GBs of on-board storage.
When it comes to battery-life, there’s a little bit of deviation here – though Samsung insist that both will deliver a safe experience. The S8 will pack a 3000mAh unit while the S8+ bumps that up to 3500mAh. Both phones feature wireless and fast charging.
Finally, the front camera on the Galaxy S8 is an advanced 8MP F1.7 aperture Smart autofocus lens while the rear-shooter packs 12-megapixels and a F1.7 lens. They say that multiframe procesing will ensure users “never miss that perfect shot.”
The S8 is also packing the same iris scanner as its Note 7 predecessor, which has now been improved to offer full-blown facial recognition.
Speaking at the launch event, Samsung’s DJ Koh talked up the beginning of a new era of smartphones. Specifically, “one without limits.”
Koh emphasized the company’s commitment to quality, safety and craftsmanship in their products.
“We are honored that millions across the world trust Samsung phones to manage their lives,” he said.
He also talked up both the S8’s “Infinity Display” and AI assistant Bixby as proof that of the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation.
Meanwhile, Richard Fink, VP of Samsung Australia’s Mobile Division says “the Galaxy S8 and S8+ are testament to Samsung’s commitment to continually breaking new ground in what mobile technology should offer our customers. It represents genuine innovation, from the optimal viewing experience of the infinity screen through to services such as Bixby and DeX that will transform how our customers will be able to use their smartphone.”
“The design of the Galaxy S8 and S8+ are not only beautiful to look at but also fit comfortably in, and are easy to use, with one hand. These smartphones are perfect for our mobile lives.”
While the retail on-sale date for the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ in Australia is April 28, Samsung say that customers who pre-order within the next few days will receive their handset a week ahead of that on April 21st.
They’ll also be packing in a set of AKG headphones, courtesy of the company’s recent acquisition of Harman.
The Samsung Galaxy S8 will land on Australian shores with an RRP of $1199 while the Galaxy S8+ will have a RRP of $1349. In terms of color options, Samsung say that customers in Australia will be able to purchase both handsets in one of three colours: Midnight Black, Orchid Grey and Maple Gold.
