Samsung
Samsung Upgrades its Health App with Medical Records, Nutrition-by-Barcode
Samsung has announced several major new features for its comprehensive Health app. Starting with version 6.28, users can import their medical records, including test results, prescriptions, hospital visits, and vaccinations. The app offers "meaningful insights and alerts that suggest next steps, such as recommending medical tests or actions." This feature integrates with popular electronic medical record (EMR) systems in the United States, including Epic Systems, athenahealth, Cerner Health, and Veradigm. Samsung partnered with b.well Connected Health on this feature. Samsung partnered with a different company — fatsecret — on another new feature: barcode scanning in the Food Tracker. This can make logging meals and/or viewing nutrition info as easy as scanning barcodes on food packaging. Samsung has brought a similar feature to the Medications Tracking feature, where users can simply scan a pill bottle with the camera to add a medication to their personal list.
Snapdragon 8 Elite is Qualcomm's Newest Top-End Chip for Phones
Qualcomm's newest flagship chip for flagship phones is the Snapdragon 8 Elite. For the first time in a chip for phones, Qualcomm is using its own, all-new Oryon CPU architecture, the fruit of its acquisition of Nuvia in 2021. Qualcomm claims the new Oryon CPU delivers a 45% performance improvement in both single- and multi-core tasks compared to last year's Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The prime core runs at up to 4.32 GHz and the performance cores run at up to 3.53 GHz. Qualcomm is also using a cutting-edge 3nm manufacturing process, which contributes to a 27% overall power savings. Power savings are even better in some areas, such as 45% for AI, 44% for CPU, and 40% for graphics. Qualcomm also claims 45% faster AI and 40% better gaming performance. The 8 Elite also includes the X80 modem and FastConnect 7900 announced in February. These bring standards-based support for satellite connectivity as well as integrated UWB. The 8 Elite also supports Bluetooth 6.0. Qualcomm is breaking with its usual naming scheme for smartphone chips, where this would otherwise have been called the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4. The Snapdragon 8 Elite is expected to reach the market in phones starting "in the coming weeks" from brands that include Samsung, OnePlus, and Asus.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Boosts Display and Battery Size
Samsung has revealed the Galaxy S24 FE, this year's edition of the company's most affordable model in the flagship S-series. Compared to last year's S23 FE, this model has a larger 6.7-inch display (with 120 HZ refresh), and a larger 4,700 mAh battery. It's powered by a Samsung Exynos 2400 series chipset that supports ray-traced graphics, paired with 8 GB of RAM. It will come with 128 GB of storage; a 256 GB version will be available unlocked and with Verizon. The camera system is similar to last year's, with a 50 megapixel main camera, 12 megapixel wide-angle camera, and 3x, 8-megapixel telephoto camera with OIS. It also supports wired fast charging, as well as fast wireless charging and reverse wireless charging. Naturally, it comes with a full suite of AI features, including Generative Edit, Circle to Search, Live Translate, and Note Assist. It comes in four colors: Blue, Graphite, Gray, and Mint. All three major national carriers will offer the phone. Pricing for the Galaxy S24 FE starts at $650. Pre-orders start today, with full availability on October 3rd.
Verizon Launching Satellite Service for Android Phones That Support NTN
Verizon has announced a new satellite connectivity service that will offer SOS and location-sharing features in cellular dead zones with compatible Android phones starting this fall. Non-emergency messaging will launch next year. The first compatible Android devices (using the 3GPP rel. 17 NB-NTN standard) are the new Pixel 9 series from Google and "upcoming Galaxy devices" from Samsung. Verizon is partnering with Skylo to offer the service. Skylo's service works similarly to Apple's "Emergency SOS via satellite" feature, and will bring Samsung (and Google) phones up to parity with iPhones in Verizon's lineup. Verizon also has a partnership (and investment stake) with AST SpaceMobile, which will offer similar functionality that works with existing phones. However that service is not available yet because more new satellites must be launched (literally) before it's ready for consumers. This new, Skylo-based service allows Verizon to offer satellite connectivity — for compatible phones — sooner. This service requires specific hardware support in the phone, including an NTN modem and L-band antenna. Qualcomm's upcoming X80 modem includes NTN support and is expected to appear in the next wave of flagship Android phones. MediaTek also offers chips that support NTN. While the Pixel 9 series comes with satellite service from Google, Verizon says it is "working towards a plan to move Pixel 9 to Verizon" satellite service. Both T-Mobile and AT&T seem to be skipping NTN and relying on future systems that require new satellites but will work with existing phones; AT&T is also partnering with AST, while T-Mobile is working with SpaceX Starlink.
Samsung's New Foldables Bring Small Refinements Inside and Out
Samsung has revealed its newest flagship foldable phones: the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Galaxy Z Flip6. The two models have a new, more angular design with flat sides. They're Samsung's slimmest and lightest foldables ever, and also most durable thanks to Armor Aluminum, Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and a new, more durable "dual-rail" hinge. "Enhanced layers" on the main screen help reduce creasing at the hinge. Both are powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy chip. The Fold6 features a 1.6x larger vapor cooling chamber for better sustained performance, and the Flip6 includes vapor cooling chamber for the first time on a Flip model. The software includes a variety of new AI features, including Google Gemini and an all-new "Sketch to image" which "allows you to create more sophisticated art pieces by generating image options when you simply sketch or draw on the photos in Gallery or Note screen." The Z Fold6 has thinner bezels on both displays. The Z Flip6 has numerous improvements to the outer display functionality and camera system. When closed, there are new multi-widget options and AI-powered Suggested Replies when messaging. The FlexCam mode now supports Auto Zoom to automatically frame you in your own photo. The camera sensors have also been upgraded and night modes enhanced. Samsung offers an industry-leading software support promise, with a full seven years of OS upgrades (not just security updates). The Galaxy Z Fold6 starts at $1,900 and comes in Pink, Navy, or silver. Black and white options are also available from samsung.com. The Galaxy Z Flip6 starts at $1,100 and comes in Yellow, Mint, Blue, or silver. Peach, black, and white options are also available from samsung.com. All models ship July 24 with pre-orders starting today. Pre-orders include a free upgrade to the next storage level.
Galaxy Ring Joins Samsung's New Wearable Lineup
Samsung has launched a new lineup of wearable devices, including the all-new Galaxy Ring, as well as the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra, Watch7, and Buds3 series. The Galaxy Ring is similar in concept the Oura Ring: a health-tracking device small enough fit into a ring on your finger. The Ring is designed to be worn 24/7. It weighs as little as 2.3 grams (thanks to a titanium frame), has a battery that lasts up to seven days, and has 10ATM (+IP68) water resistance. It's available in three colors (black, silver, and gold) and nine sizes. The comprehensive sleep monitoring includes heart rate, breathing, movement, and snoring. It also monitors skin temperature to track menstrual cycles. The Ring automatically detects and tracks walking and running activity. A double-pinch gesture can interact with your phone, taking a picture or dismissing an alarm. It also works with Samsung Find to locate a lost Ring. Unlike some competing devices, the Ring does not require a subscription. It comes with a charging case and will retail for $399. The Galaxy Watch Ultra competes with the Apple Watch Ultra. Extra durability includes a titanium "cushion" frame, Sapphire Crystal display, and 10ATM water resistance (plus IP68 and ocean swimming). In bright light, the display can reach a peak brightness of 3,000 nits. In an emergency, it can emit a loud Emergency Siren. In Power Saving mode, the 590 mAh battery can last up to 100 hours. A special performance cycling mode can calculate your personal FTP (functional threshold power) in just four minutes. It's also approved in the US for tracking ECG and sleep apnea. The Galaxy Watch Ultra starts at $649.
Samsung Reveals Galaxy Watch FE
The new Samsung Galaxy Watch FE promises to be a more affordable Wear OS smartwatch, starting at $200. Samsung emphasizes the health features, which include Samsung's "BioActive" sensor that measures heart activity two ways as well as skin impedance. The Galaxy Watch FE includes tracking for over 100 different workouts, sleep tracking, ECG, and detection of abnormal heart conditions. It also works with Samsung's Find My Phone feature, can control a Galaxy smartphone camera remotely, and includes Samsung Wallet for tap payments and digital ID. The round face is 40mm, with an always-on AMOLED display protected by Sapphire Crystal glass. It's powered by a Samsung Exynos W920 chip and 247 mAh battery. It charges wirelessly. It has Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, and GPS. It will be available with or without 4G LTE. The aluminum case is rated IP68 for water and 5ATM for immersion. It comes in black, silver, or pink gold. A "one click" band design makes it easier to change bands quickly. The Bluetooth-only model goes on sale in the US June 24. Samsung plans to launch the LTE model in October.
Samsung's Next Galaxy Watch Will Have More Fitness Smarts
Samsung has announced multiple new health features coming to the next Galaxy Watch lineup via its One UI 6 Watch software, available later this year. Samsung refers to these features as Galaxy AI on Galaxy Watch. Sleep tracking will be more detailed and more precise. A new Energy Score combines metrics like sleep, activity, and heart rate to provide "a better understanding of users' daily condition". Running mode will now include Aerobic Threshold / Anaerobic Threshold Heart Rate Zone Metrics. A new Race mode helps runners and cyclists train for a race. Finally, a Workout Routine mode lets users combine a set of exercises for a personalized workout.
iFixit Ends Samsung Repair Collaboration
iFixit is ending its collaboration with Samsung on Galaxy device self-repair guides and parts. iFixit blames Samsung, saying it "consistently faced obstacles that made us doubt Samsung's commitment to making repair more accessible." As an example, for battery or display replacements — some of the most common repairs — Samsung would only sell a costly part with both the display and battery, pre-glued together. iFixit will continue to provide repair info and parts for Samsung devices, just not in collaboration with Samsung. iFixit continues to work directly with several other manufacturers.
Samsung Expands Mid-Range Lineup with Galaxy A35 5G
Samsung is bringing more mid-range phones to the US this year with the introduction of the Galaxy A35 5G. Samsung brought the Galaxy A32 5G to the US in late 2021, but the A33 and A34 skipped the US. Samsung launched the A15 and A25 in January. The A35 is very similar to the A25, with just a slightly larger display (6.6 instead of 6.5 inches), IP67 water resistance, and Wi-Fi 6. Other specs are the same, including a FHD+ AMOLED display with 120 Hz refresh, 5,000 mAh battery, 25W fast charging, 50 megapixel main camera, 8 megapixel wide camera, 13 megapixel front camera, Samsung Exynos processor, 6 GB RAM, 128 GB storage (expandable), and NFC. The Galaxy A35 5G is available starting today from T-Mobile, US Cellular, and unlocked from samsung.com. Update: AT&T, Metro, Consumer Cellular, Spectrum, and Xfinity also started offering the A35 this week.
Samsung Brings Galaxy AI to More Phones
Later this week, Samsung will roll out One UI 6.1 in the US for the the Galaxy S23 series, S23 FE, Z Fold5, and Z Flip5. New features include Circle to Search with Google, Live Translate, Chat Assist, and Generative Edit.
Samsung Update Brings Galaxy AI to More Phones
In late March, Samsung will release its One UI 6.1 software for the Galaxy S23 series, S23 FE, Z Fold5, and Z Flip5. It adds the following "Galaxy AI" features that debuted on the S24 series: Circle to Search, Live Translate, Interpreter, Chat Assist, and Generative Edit.
Samsung Brings New Translation and Auracast Features to Galaxy Buds
Samsung is rolling out an update to its Galaxy Buds series of earbuds. The update brings a new live language translation feature that Samsung calls Interpreter. It means you no longer have to pass your phone back and forth. "You can listen to translations through your earbuds, while the other person hears through your phone speaker, helping you to focus better on the conversation". Samsung is also enabling Auracast (one-to-many Bluetooth audio) between Galaxy phones and Galaxy earbuds. The update will roll out first to the Galaxy Buds2 Pro in late February, followed by the Buds2 and Buds FE.
FDA Authorizes Samsung's Sleep Apnea Detection on Galaxy Watch
Samsung has received a first-of-its-kind authorization for a sleep apnea detection feature of its Galaxy Watch smartwatches. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates health and medical devices, so its authorization is required for features relating to medical conditions. "The sleep apnea feature enables users over the age of 22 who have not been diagnosed with sleep apnea to detect signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) over a two-night monitoring period, a common and chronic sleep condition that often goes undiagnosed and untreated. To utilize the feature, users can simply track their sleep twice for more than four hours within a ten-day period." Samsung says it plans to roll out the feature on the Galaxy Watch series in the US in the third quarter.
Samsung Launching Two New Affordable 5G Phones Today, Too
While Samsung's big news today is the new S24 series of flagship phones, the company is also quietly launching two new affordable 5G phones today: the Galaxy A15 5G and Galaxy A25 5G. The Galaxy A15 5G updates last year's A14 5G with a 6.5-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with 90 Hz refresh, a major upgrade for a phone that sells for $200. It also has double the built-in storage (128 instead of 64 GB), faster fast charging (25W instead of 15), and replaces the depth camera with a 5 megapixel wide-angle camera. Other specs carry over from the A14 5G, including a 5,000 mAh battery, 50 megapixel main camera, NFC, fingerprint reader, expandable storage, and a headset jack. It's powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset. Verizon, T-Mobile, Boost, and US Cellular started selling the phone today, and samsung.com indicates that AT&T may offer it as well. The Galaxy A25 5G doesn't seem to be nearly as popular with US carriers, as there are no indications that any of the big three national carriers plan to offer it. It's quite similar to the A15 5G, with the upgrades being OIS on the main camera, an 8 megapixel wide-angle camera, 4K video capture, and 120 Hz display refresh. It's powered by a Samsung Exynos 1280 chipset. For these upgrades, US Cellular shows a list price of $300. Boost and TracFone may offer it, as well.
Samsung S24 Series Adds More AI, Updates the Hardware
Samsung has unveiled its lineup of flagship phones for 2024, the Galaxy S24 series. The phones sport multiple upgrades in both hardware and software compared to last year's models. Larger displays, larger batteries, and more RAM are among the hardware improvements. New "Galaxy AI" on-device AI leverages Qualcomm and Google technology to power a long list of unique new features. These include live two-way language translation for voice calls and messaging (even in third-party apps), one-tap removal of reflections in photos, and auto-summarization in Notes. A new "Circle to Search" feature lets you highlight anything in any app (including text and photos) to Google that. There is a new setting to explicitly turn off any cloud-based AI processing to protect privacy and enterprise security. Samsung is also committing to a full seven years of OS upgrades and security updates for these phones. The Galaxy S24 and S24+ are similar in size to last year's models, but a thinner bezel means slightly larger (by 0.1") displays. The batteries are also slightly larger (by up to 6.6%). The larger "plus" model also gets a boost to a QHD+ resolution display and 12 GB of RAM standard. All models now incorporate gyroscope data to improve noise reduction in photos. Other camera specs and most other features remain largely the same compared to least year. The top-end Galaxy S24 Ultra retains a built-in stylus but switches to a flat (instead of curved-edge) display and titanium frame. This permits a body that's slightly thinner overall. It also now comes with 12 GB of RAM standard. The camera system has improved (wider-angle) optical stabilization and larger pixels on the main sensor to take in more light. The Ultra still offers 10x zoom, but now accomplishes this with a 50 megapixel sensor behind a 5x lens, (instead of a 10 megapixel sensor behind a 10x lens.) All three models — at least in the US — are powered by a Qualcomm's "Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform for Galaxy" (a version of the 8 Gen 3 with slightly faster peak CPU speeds of up to 3.4 GHz.) This also enables Wi-Fi 7 on the Ultra model, and Qualcomm's unique ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor. Storage options are: 128 or 256 GB for the standard model, 256 or 512 GB for the plus model, and 256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB for the Ultra. The standard and plus models still start at $800 and $1,000, respectively, while the Ultra now starts at $1,300. This year's color options for all models are violet, yellow, gray, and black. Three more colors — green, blue, and orange — are available exclusively from samsung.com. The Samsung Galaxy S24 series is available for pre-order and ships January 31st. Pre-orders come with a free upgrade to the next storage option, including up to 1 TB on the Ultra.
Apple Passes Samsung in Phone Shipments
Apple shipped more phones than Samsung for the first time ever in 2023. Samsung had led the sales charts since 2010, when Nokia was #1. The shipment numbers have not been not confirmed by the companies, but two different research companies that track this information — IDC and Canalys — have reached essentially the same conclusion. IDC claims that Apple managed to grow both total shipments and market share in 2023, a year when most competitors saw a drop in phone shipments.
Nearby Share Becomes Quick Share
Google and Samsung have collaborated to merge their similar Nearby Share and Quick Share features into a single new standard called Quick Share. "Quick Share will start rolling out to current Nearby Share enabled devices next month."
Samsung Teases AI Zoom Feature of Galaxy S24 Series
Samsung has scheduled its next Unpacked product-launch event for January 17th at 10am PT (1pm ET). The event will take place in San Jose, CA and the main subject is expected to be the Galaxy S24 series of flagship phones. In promotional materials, Samsung teases a new feature called "Zoom with Galaxy AI", which could be a digital zoom feature that employs generative AI to add missing details. This would be like in TV and film where a computer magically "enhances" an image. As it does every year, Samsung is offering a $50 credit to anyone that places a "reservation" to pre-order a phone. The reservation carries no commitment to buy; only a name and email address are required. The credit can only be used against an additional purchase (like an accessory) at the time the phone order is placed. Samsung will also offer additional credits and storage upgrades to anyone who pre-orders, "while supplies last".
Google Paid Samsung $8 Billion to Ditch Galaxy App Store
Google agreed to pay Samsung $8 billion over four years to make Google's search engine, voice assistant, and app store the default on Samsung phones, according to testimony presented the ongoing case of Epic Games vs. Google. Epic is suing Google claiming its Play Store is an unlawful monopoly.
Gabb Expands Lineup with Phone for Teens
Gabb is expanding its lineup of smart devices for kids with a new phone specifically targeted at teens. Unlike its watches and phones designed for younger kids, the new Gabb Phone 3 Pro does have some internet access and a curated app store with "apps that can be helpful or necessary at certain stages of teens' lives". But it doesn't allow social media, an open web browser, nor "other high-risk apps". The phone is the Samsung Galaxy A13 (4G) with custom Gabb OS software. Like all Gabb devices, messages are screened for harmful content and an approved contact list can be controlled via the app for parents. Parents can also track location via GPS and create geo-fencing alerts. Gabb also offers Gabb Music, a "music streaming service that boasts the largest kid-safe music streaming library with clean music from every genre and era." Gabb is selling its Phone 3 Pro for $200, with service running $35/month, including 3 GB of data per month.
Visible Expands Free Trial via eSIM to Google and Samsung Phones
Visible first launched its eSIM-based, 15-day free trial with iPhones in January 2022. Starting today, it's available to Samsung Galaxy S- and Z-series phones going back to the S20 series, and Google phones starting with the Pixel 3 series.
New Malware Protection Coming to Samsung Phones
Samsung has revealed that its forthcoming One UI 6 software for its Galaxy phones will include a new feature called Auto Blocker. It's designed to block unauthorized app installations, including blocking all side-loaded apps (apps not from an official app store.) The feature can be turned off for users who wish to side-load apps. But by default it will help protect users against being tricked into installing malware via phishing. It will also help protect against attacks that leverage malicious images sent via messaging apps. Samsung announced a different type of protection against that type of attack in February with a feature called Message Guard. But that didn't cover third-party messaging apps, which this does.
Samsung Offers Free Cloud Phone Backup for Switching and Repairs
Samsung will soon let you back up your whole phone or tablet to unlimited cloud storage for free, but only for 30 days. The service, called Temporary Cloud Backup, is designed for users that are either upgrading to a new Samsung device or sending their Samsung device in for repairs. The service is only available from Samsung Galaxy phones and tablets running One UI 6 and requires a Samsung account. It will be available "globally this fall ... starting with Galaxy S and Z series smartphones in Korea." There is no total storage limit, but individual file sizes are capped at 100 GB, which could impact some longer and/or higher-quality videos. Users will receive alerts before a backup is automatically deleted at the end of 30 days.
Samsung Adds Mobile Driver’s Licenses to its Wallet
Samsung is enhancing it Samsung Wallet app to support mobile driver's licenses and state ID cards using the ISO/IEC 18013-5 industry standard. Arizona and Iowa will be the first US states supported. They will be accepted as ID at the 25 US airports where the TSA already equipped to read them. Next year, Samsung will also release a software development kit (SDK) "so developers can integrate online age and ID information into their applications to help reduce fraud and friction with the verification process." Both Apple and Google added support for mobile driver's licenses to their respective wallet apps last year.
Samsung Brings Back the FE for its Galaxy S23 Series
After skipping a year last year, Samsung has brought back the more affordable model of its flagship phone series with the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE. As with previous "FE" devices, this is effectively Samsung's "affordable flagship" device at $600, filling out the lineup just above the top end of the company's A-series phones. The S23 FE has a 50 megapixel main camera, 12 megapixel ultra-wide camera, and 3x telephoto camera with 8 megapixel resolution. The 6.4-inch AMOLED display has adaptive refresh up to 120 Hz. The 4,500 mAh battery can be charged up to 50% in around 30 minutes with 25W charging. It also supports fast and reverse wireless charging. It's powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor paired with 8 GB RAM and either 128 or 256 GB of storage. Other features include an IP68 rating for dust and water, Bluetooth 5.3, and Wi-Fi 6E. It will be available in several colors, including Mint, Cream, Graphite, and Purple. (The 256 GB storage option is only available in Graphite.) The Samsung Galaxy S3 FE will be available from Verizon on October 26 for $600, and from AT&T on October 27. Samsung.com will also offer exclusive Indigo and Tangerine colors.
Samsung Brings its Military Phones to First Responders
Samsung has introduced its third generation of Tactical Edition smartphones designed primarily for military personnel. For the first time, they support AT&T's FirstNet network and will be available to first responders. Also for the first time, there are two different models: a Galaxy S23 Tactical Edition, and a more-rugged Galaxy XCover6 Pro Tactical Edition. Samsung's Tactical Edition phones have a long list of specialized features and certifications tailored to military needs, including support for tactical radios, drone feeds, laser range finders, external GPS, and SDR receivers. Samsung now offers serverless license activation for streamlined setup. Samsung partnered with Juggernaut Case and Kagwerks to develop rugged, military-grade cases (available separately). The Samsung Galaxy S23 Tactical Edition and Samsung Galaxy XCover 6 Pro Tactical Edition are available starting today through select IT channel partners.
AST Delivers 5G to Ordinary Phone From Space
AST SpaceMobile has achieved another important testing milestone by successfully making a 5G phone call on an unmodified Samsung Galaxy S22 via its BlueWalker 3 test satellite currently in orbit. The phone was located in a cellular dead zone on Maui, Hawaii. The connection used AT&T spectrum; the same radio frequencies AT&T uses for its land-based 5G network. The company has conducted a series of different tests over the past year to validate its technology, including the first phone call in April, followed by 4G data in June, data download rates of up to 14 Mbps, video calls, streaming video, and "full compatibility with phones made by all major manufacturers". The company says it is on track to launch five commercial BlueBird satellites — already under construction — in the first quarter of 2024. AT&T is one of the many companies worldwide that AST has an agreement with to provide satellite coverage where its land-based network does not reach. AST's technology is made possible by the satellite's massive antenna, "the largest-ever commercial communications array deployed in low Earth orbit."
Samsung's New Foldables Arrive Today
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 and Galaxy Z Fold5 are now officially available. Samsung is offering some previously-unannounced free trials as extras when the phones are ordered from samsung.com. With either phone, get four months of YouTube Premium, four months of Microsoft 365 Basic, and two months of Adobe Lightroom. Like the wireless carriers, Samsung has its own trade-in deals that let customers save up to $600 on the Flip5 and up to $1,000 on the Fold5.
Samsung, Microsoft Offer Enhanced Phone Security for Enterprises
Samsung and Microsoft have launched a new technology called device attestation that allows companies and other organizations to confirm that a mobile device has not been compromised before it is allowed to access company resources, even with unmanaged personal devices. The companies claim that this solution is "the industry's first on-device, mobile hardware-backed device attestation solution that works equally well on both company and personally owned devices." The solution requires a Samsung Galaxy device and Microsoft Intune. It enhances security, helps organizations implement Zero Trust policies, and opens up new possibilities for BYOD (bring your own device) in the enterprise.
Samsung's New Foldables Stick to the Formula
Samsung has unveiled its newest generation of Galaxy Z foldable phones: the Galaxy Z Fold5 and Galaxy Z Flip5. The Z Flip5 has an outer display that's almost 4x larger. Samsung calls it Flex Window and it has greatly increased functionality — including quick reply and widgets — much like Motorola's new razr+. Other changes are more minor, including a new hinge design that folds completely flat, allowing both phones to be thinner. The Z Fold5 is lighter as well, and its inner display can reach a higher peak brightness when outdoors. Samsung has also made the S Pen Fold Edition and its special case slimmer and more compact. The bodies of both phones are made from Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and Armor Aluminum, and are still rated IPx8 for water resistance. Both phones have been updated to Qualcomm's latest flagship chip: the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy. The Z Flip5 comes with double the storage by default (256 instead of 128 GB) and it now supports Wi-Fi 6E. Otherwise, both phones have nearly identical specs and features compared to their predecessors, including the cameras, battery, charging, and RAM. Pricing also remains the same, starting at $1,000 for the Z Flip5 and $1,800 for the Z Fold5. Pre-orders are eligible for a free storage upgrade (from 256 to 512 GB, for example). The Z Flip5 will be available in Mint, Graphite, Cream, and Lavender, plus the samsung.com exclusive colors Blue, Gray, Green, and Yellow. The Z Fold5 will be available in Icy Blue, Phantom Black, and Cream, plus the samsung.com exclusive colors Blue and Gray. Samsung and carriers are offering generous trade-in deals of up to $1,000 off. Pre-orders are now open and the phones will be available August 11.
Samsung Brings Backs Watch Classic with Rotating Bezel
Samsung has announced its new lineup of smartwatches for this year, including a Galaxy Watch6 Classic with a "fan-favorite" rotating bezel, a model that was conspicuously missing from the Watch5 lineup. The Watch6 series brings a long list of upgrades over last year's models, including significantly thinner bezels that allow the displays to be 20% larger. The displays are also brighter and higher resolution. To compensate, the batteries are larger and the watches have "reduced battery consumption". Eight minutes of charging can deliver eight hours of battery life, ideal for the improved sleep tracking and coaching features. A new fabric band (free with pre-order) improves comfort for sleep tracking. For runners, the watch now supports personalized heart rate zones. The heart tracking also now provides FDA-certified Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification. The watch now supports full Samsung Wallet features, including IDs, event tickets, and boarding passes. Find My Phone now works directly on the watch, including a map to your lost phone. New APIs support custom deployments in healthcare and enterprise settings. Both watches come in two sizes, two colors, and are available with or without 4G LTE. The Galaxy Watch6 starts at $300 while the Watch6 Classic starts at $400. Add $30 to either for the larger size. Add another $50 for 4G LTE versions (instead of Bluetooth-only). Pre-orders are now open, with full availability on August 11. Samsung will also continue offering the Galaxy Watch5 Pro with its larger battery and titanium case.
Samsung's New Display Senses Fingerprints and More Across Whole Surface
Samsung has revealed "Sensor OLED", a new display panel technology that has many tiny light sensors embedded directly into the whole OLED panel surface. This allows the panel to read fingerprints anywhere on the display, as well as check cardiovascular health. Current in-display fingerprint readers utilize a seperate sensor module under a small part of the display; this new technology is embedded directly in the display itself and covers the whole display area. When placing two fingers on the display, (one from each hand,) the display "can measure the user's heart rate, blood pressure and stress level". Samsung also showed off several new foldable phone concepts using its flexible display technology. One is called Rollable Flex, a display that unrolls like a scroll to become five times larger, essentially transforming from a slim phone to a large tablet.
Apple and Google Collaborate on Anti-Stalker Tech
Apple and Google have announced a new industry standard that will enable cross-platform alerts when people are potentially being tracked without their consent using any popular Bluetooth location-tracking device, regardless of manufacturer. For example, this would allow someone to receive an alert on their Android phone when an unknown Apple AirTag seems to be following them, or the same for an Apple iPhone and a Samsung SmartTag. Current anti-stalker features are either siloed in one company's ecosystem or require the manual download and use of a special app. This new standard will eventually come baked right into both iOS and Android. Besides Apple and Google, "Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, eufy Security, and Pebblebee have expressed support for the draft specification, which offers best practices and instructions for manufacturers, should they choose to build these capabilities into their products." Today marks the start of a three-month comment period on the draft standard. The companies plan to finalize the standard by the end of 2023 and implement it "in future versions" of iOS and Android.
BMW Brings Enhanced Digital Car Key to Android
BMW is rolling out its Digital Key Plus feature to compatible Android phones with UWB, such as the Samsung Galaxy S23+ and Pixel 7 Pro. The feature is already available for Apple products. The enhanced "Plus" version lets you keep your phone in your pocket, whereas the earlier Digital Key feature (already available for select Android phones) requires that you tap your phone on the door handle. Cars with the feature produced since November 2022 are compatible with Android, while a future remote software update will add compatibility to older cars. Older Samsung and Google phones are compatible as well, as long as they have the necessary UWB feature. This includes most Plus and Ultra Galaxy S phones, Samsung foldables, and the Pixel 6 Pro. Digital Key Plus is based on an industry standard from the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC).
AST Completes Voice Call via Satellite Using Regular Cell Phone
AST SpaceMobile has successfully completed a test of the first full two-way voice call using a standard, off-the-shelf cell phone connecting directly to a satellite in orbit (instead of to a land-based network.) Other recently-announced space connectivity solutions have focused only on messaging, not voice calls, and/or require new phones with added satellite technology. This test used an unmodified Samsung Galaxy S22 connecting directly to AST's BlueWalker 3 test satellite in orbit. It took place in Texas using AT&T radio frequencies; AT&T plans to use AST's system to provide coverage in remote areas. AST has completed additional tests that "confirm the ability to support cellular broadband speeds", as well as multiple cellular technologies from 2G to 5G. Tests also confirm compatibility with a variety of different phones and other cellular devices.
Samsung News is a Pivot from Free Content App
Samsung is launching Samsung News, an app offering free news content. The app is not entirely new, but rather a relaunch of the Samsung Free app, which previously offered video and game content as well. The new app is more focused, offering just news articles and podcasts. Despite the app's new name, the podcasts section will still include both news and entertainment podcasts. On the articles side, the app will offer a customizable feed as well as twice-daily curated "Daily Briefings" of top headlines. Samsung is working with Upday to source the syndicated content, which currently includes Bloomberg Media, CNN, Fortune, Fox News, Glamour, GQ, HuffPost, Money, Newsweek, New York Post, Parade, POLITICO, Refinery29, Salon, Slate, Sports Illustrated, The Daily Beast, TheStreet, USA TODAY, and Vice, with more to come. The rollout of the new app starts today on select devices and for existing users of Samsung Free. It will be available for "all addressable devices" "in the coming weeks".
Major Security Flaw Affects Google, Samsung Phones
Google has discovered and disclosed a set of severe security vulnerabilities in the Samsung modems found in many recent Google Pixel phones and some recent Samsung phones, mostly A-series models. Software updates made available this month fix the issue, but are not yet available for all models. The flaws allow an attacker to remotely compromise a phone with no user action, knowing only the victim's phone number. Users of the Google Pixel 6 series should immediately disable Wi-Fi Calling and VoLTE until a software update is available for those models. A software update has been released to address the issue on the Pixel 7 series. Also affected are the Samsung Galaxy A71, A53, A33, A21, A13, A12, and A04 series.
Samsung's Galaxy A54 Sports Premium Design
Samsung's new Galaxy A54 5G launches April 6th for $450. This mid-range phone has nearly identical specs compared to its predecessor, the Galaxy A53 5G. The design is significantly updated, however, more closely resembling the company's flagship S series. The body and display are more rounded, with a flat back punctuated by three cameras aligned vertically. Like the A53, it has a FHD+ AMOLED display with 120 Hz refresh, 5,000 mAh battery, IP67 water rating, 6 GB of RAM, 5G, NFC, memory card slot, 12 megapixel wide camera, and a 32 megapixel front camera. The main camera is 50 megapixel instead of 64. The Galaxy A54 5G will be available in graphite or violet. Pre-orders start March 30th and entitle buyers to the Galaxy Buds Live earbuds for $50 (normally $100 – $150).
T-Mobile Makes Upgrades to its 5G Network
T-Mobile has announced two key steps in upgrading its 5G network to be faster and more advanced. First, the company has successfully tested four-carrier aggregation with 5G SA (stand-alone). In the test, this technology allowed a Samsung Galaxy S23 to hit peak speeds topping 3.3 Gbps. The test combined two channels (carriers) of 2500 MHz spectrum (band 41) and two channels of 1900 MHz spectrum (band 2/25), creating an one effective channel of 5G SA that was 225 MHz wide. "Customers with the Samsung Galaxy S23 will be among the first to experience four-carrier aggregation later this year with more devices to follow." The other announcement is the deployment of VoNR in six cities. VoNR is 5G-native voice calling; currently, most voice calls are still made over 4G LTE. The six cities that now have VoNR enabled are: New York City, Seattle, Portland, New Orleans, Cincinnati, and Salt Lake City. Consumers are unlikely to notice a change, although voice call setup time should be slightly faster. Behind the scenes, VoNR allows phones to stay connected to 5G continuously, which in turn enables 5G SA features like network slicing (for enterprise customers). VoNR is also necessary to enable the eventual phase-out of 4G LTE, although that is not expected any time soon.
