Tag: Samsung

  • Samsung to Outsource 67M Smartphones from China ODMs in 2024

    Samsung to Outsource 67M Smartphones from China ODMs in 2024

    Samsung’s reliance on outsourced production for its budget phone line appears to be on the rise. As reported by The Elec, the South Korean tech leader is expected to produce 67 million smartphones in 2024 through Chinese ODMs (original design manufacturers) and JDMs (joint device manufacturers).

    This marks a notable increase from 44 million units in 2023, accounting for 25% of Samsung’s overall smartphone production goal of 270 million units this year.

    Vietnam’s Role in Production

    The report also highlights Vietnam’s involvement in Samsung’s outsourcing strategy, with approximately 28 million units anticipated to be manufactured in Vietnamese facilities.

    Samsung’s heavy reliance on outsourcing aims to cut costs, enabling the company to offer more competitively priced budget phones.

    Samsung began outsourcing production for its affordable phone range in 2019. Although this strategy reduces production and R&D costs, it raises concerns about potential quality compromises that outsourcing might entail.

    Potential Quality Issues

    ODM partners may cut corners on materials or components to increase their profit margins, potentially affecting the overall user experience. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy A03s, believed to be an outsourced phone, was praised for its battery life and usability improvements but criticized for its cheap build quality and sluggish performance.

    Despite these possible downsides, Samsung’s strategy appears to resonate with consumers. The company was the only Android manufacturer to have phones listed among the top 10 best-sellers in both 2022 and 2023.

    Balancing Act

    Thus, the cost-effective approach achieved through outsourcing is delivering budget-friendly Android devices that find a market. Moving forward, it will be interesting to see how Samsung manages the balance between affordability and quality control in its outsourced phones.

    The company will need to ensure that its ODM partners uphold sufficient standards while providing competitive pricing for budget-conscious consumers.

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  • European Smartphone Market Grows 10% in Q1 2024 Led by Samsung

    European Smartphone Market Grows 10% in Q1 2024 Led by Samsung

    The European smartphone market exhibited encouraging signs of recovery in the first quarter of 2024, rebounding from a prolonged downturn with a 10% year-on-year rise in shipments, according to Counterpoint Research. This represents the first positive growth since Q3 2021, indicating a possible turning point for the region.

    Top Brands Drive Market Growth Amid Recovery

    Tech giants Samsung, Apple, and Xiaomi upheld their dominance, yet the dynamics within the top three varied. Samsung saw a 7% increase in shipments, securing the market leader position with a 32% share. This positive shift follows a period of decline, likely propelled by the success of their AI-powered Galaxy S24 series. The introduction of the new A35 and A55 models towards the end of Q1 may further enhance their standing in the upcoming months.

    Apple, conversely, experienced a minor 1% drop in shipments despite retaining a strong 25% market share. This decline can be attributed to the natural sales cycle of iPhones, with iPhone 15 sales waning due to seasonality. The lack of a new iPhone SE model in 2024 suggests further decreases until the much-anticipated iPhone 16 release later this year.

    Xiaomi consistently grew with an 11% shipment increase, cementing its role as the third-largest player with an 18% share. Their success was notably significant in Western Europe, particularly in Spain and Italy, driven by the well-received Redmi Note 13 series. However, Xiaomi faced hurdles in Central and Eastern Europe, where intensifying competition from Samsung and Tecno reduced their market share to its lowest since early 2022.

    Emerging Players and Market Dynamics

    Beyond the established leaders, the report identified notable trends. Realme experienced a substantial 59% growth, driven by strong performance in Western Europe and a resurgence in key markets like Italy and Spain. Their affordable C series remained top sellers, with the new Realme 12 gaining momentum as well.

    Another significant player, Honor, achieved an impressive 67% growth, surpassing Oppo to claim the fifth position in Europe for the first time. This remarkable accomplishment was fueled by their success in Western Europe, where shipments doubled year-on-year thanks to exciting devices like the Magic V2, Magic 6, and Honor 90.

    While the recovery is encouraging, Counterpoint Research analyst Jan Stryjak advises caution against over-optimism. The 2023 slump was considerable, and the European market has yet to return to pre-pandemic levels. Growth is expected to continue at a modest rate throughout the rest of 2024, but reaching pre-pandemic figures will likely require more time.

    European Smartphone Market Grows 10% in Q1 2024 Led by Samsung
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  • Galaxy Z Fold 6 Leak: Symmetrical Bezels on External Screen

    Galaxy Z Fold 6 Leak: Symmetrical Bezels on External Screen

    Samsung’s second Unpacked event of 2024 is anticipated for July in Paris, just before the Olympics. This event is expected to unveil the Galaxy Z Flip 6, Z Fold 6, along with new Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Buds models.

    Galaxy Z Fold 6 Display Changes

    Leaks about the Galaxy Z Fold 6 indicate a wider outer display compared to its predecessor. Credible source IceUniverse has seemingly confirmed this information. The insider recently posted an image of part of the Z Fold 6’s external screen on X (formerly known as Twitter), showing symmetrical bezels on the outer display.

    Samsung is reportedly increasing the screen ratio of the outer display to improve usability when the phone is unfolded. However, according to rumors, this wider display will not quite match the dimensions of the Pixel Fold or OnePlus Open.

    Model Variants and Rumors

    In response to an X user, IceUniverse clarified that there will likely be only one model of the Z Fold 6 this year. The Z Fold 6 Ultra might require more time before its release.

    There are also whispers about an affordable Galaxy Z Fold FE variant and a slim Galaxy Z Fold. However, these rumors seem improbable, as it would be difficult for Samsung to develop and differentiate three additional Fold models.

    We will keep you updated with any new information regarding the Galaxy Z Fold 6 or any other upcoming Samsung foldable devices.

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  • iFixit Ends Samsung Repair Hub Citing Misaligned Repairability Goals

    iFixit Ends Samsung Repair Hub Citing Misaligned Repairability Goals

    After two years of launching the Samsung Repair Hub together with the company, iFixit is now concluding this collaboration. Starting next month, they will cease to be Samsung’s designated third-party distributor for parts and tools.

    Samsung Galaxy A55 Teardown

    iFixit stated, “Our goal was to set the gold standard for repair documentation and empower local independent repair businesses with the necessary tools and parts, all while keeping Galaxy devices operational.”

    Samsung Reportedly Didn’t Want to Support Local Repair Shops

    However, iFixit has been unable to achieve their objectives. They argue that the high prices of repair parts and tools have led users to opt for replacing their devices instead of repairing them. Samsung hasn't been cooperative in aiding local repair shops. Additionally, Samsung has not provided official parts for its recent models since the Galaxy S22.

    As a result, iFixit is terminating its partnership with Samsung after two years of effort. They noted that Samsung’s repairability approach did not align with their own. The following changes will occur:

    • Starting June 2024, iFixit will no longer be Samsung’s designated third-party distributor for parts and tools.
    • Beginning next month, the limit of seven Samsung parts per repair shop per quarter will be removed.
    • Existing information on iFixit will remain, but there will be no new collaboration with Samsung to develop manuals.
    • iFixit will continue selling parts and repair kits for Samsung devices, sourcing OEM parts when available and indicating clearly whether parts are original or aftermarket, similar to their approach with Apple repair parts.

    Samsung has responded to a request for comment, essentially affirming their desire to maintain control over the process.

    Here’s what they said: “Samsung is committed to providing quality, accessible device care to our customers with flexible options to suit their needs, including walk-in, mail-in, and ‘We Come to You’ services. For those interested in our self-repair program, we offer Samsung-certified parts, tools, and information for our qualified products in one convenient location: SamsungParts.com, powered by Encompass. We’re proud of the work we’ve done with iFixit. We can’t comment further on partnership details at this time.”

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  • Samsung Galaxy Buds 3: Major Redesign Boosts Performance

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 3: Major Redesign Boosts Performance

    Samsung is rumored to be significantly redesigning the Galaxy Buds’ “kidney bean” shape with the forthcoming Galaxy Buds 3 series. According to a Korean publication, the new design will incorporate a stem, making the earbuds longer and giving the impression that the bean is sprouting.

    While the description remains somewhat unclear and no prototype images are available, the inclusion of a stem hints at a design similar to Apple’s AirPods.

    Possible Advantages of the Longer Design

    Samsung has maintained the same design since the initial release, and call quality has been considered subpar due to the microphone not being directly oriented towards the sound source. Incorporating a stem, similar to the AirPods, could facilitate improvements in this area.

    Samsung Galaxy Buds 3: Major Redesign Boosts Performance
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  • Galaxy Devices That Won’t Receive One UI 7 (Android 15) Update

    Galaxy Devices That Won’t Receive One UI 7 (Android 15) Update

    Android 15 is poised to be a significant update, packed with a variety of intriguing features and crucial enhancements. However, several Galaxy devices won't qualify for this much-anticipated upgrade.

    If you're eagerly awaiting the Android 15 update on your Samsung Galaxy, check the list of devices that won't get the Android 15-based One UI 7 update to see if you need to upgrade to a newer model to enjoy the latest features.

    Samsung One UI 7 (Android 15) Ineligible Devices List

    Galaxy S series

    • Galaxy S20 Ultra
    • Galaxy S20+
    • Galaxy S20 FE
    • Older S-series phones

    Galaxy Z series

    • Galaxy Z Fold 2
    • Galaxy Z Flip 2
    • Older Z-series phones

    Galaxy Tab series

    • Galaxy Tab A8 10.5 (2021)
    • Galaxy Tab A7 Lite
    • Galaxy Tab S7 FE
    • Older Tablets launched before 2021

    Galaxy A series

    • Galaxy A72
    • Galaxy A52
    • Galaxy A52 5G
    • Galaxy A52s 5G
    • Galaxy A32
    • Galaxy A32 5G
    • Galaxy A22
    • Galaxy A22 5G
    • Galaxy A13 5G
    • Galaxy A12
    • Galaxy A12 Nacho
    • Galaxy A03
    • Galaxy A03s
    • Galaxy A03 Core
    • Galaxy A02
    • Galaxy A01 Core
    • Older A-series phones launched before 2021

    Galaxy M series

    • Galaxy M04
    • Galaxy M13
    • Galaxy M13 5G
    • Galaxy M53 5G
    • Galaxy M33 5G
    • Galaxy M23 5G
    • Older M-series phones launched before 2022

    Galaxy F series

    • Galaxy F04
    • Galaxy F13
    • Galaxy F23 5G
    • Older F-series phones launched before 2022

    This list is not final. It has been created based on the software update policy for all Galaxy devices. However, Samsung occasionally provides additional Android updates or extends software support for select devices.

    Update Policy

    Galaxy S-series models post-S20 get four years of OS updates, while the latest Galaxy S24 series offers up to 7 OS updates. In the Galaxy Z series, all models launched after the Fold 2/Flip 2 are eligible for four OS upgrades.

    Samsung also provides four years of Android updates to Galaxy Tab S8 series models and all S-series tablets launched after the Galaxy Tab S8. Other Galaxy tablets get two or three OS updates.

    Select Galaxy A and Galaxy F series models come under Samsung’s four-generation OS update promise, while most only receive two Android updates.

    Samsung One UI 7 (Android 15): What’s New and When It’s Coming?

    If your Galaxy device qualifies for the One UI 7 upgrade, you’re probably eager to explore the new features and changes. The wait may seem long as Android 15 is still in the beta phase.

    Google is expected to release Android 15 in October, and if Samsung follows last year’s timeline, the One UI 7 rollout will begin in November. However, newer Galaxy flagship smartphones may get an early look at Android 15 by joining the beta program.

    Expected Features in Android 15

    Satellite Connectivity Support

    Android 15 introduces support for satellite connectivity, allowing you to send texts even without nearby cell towers, provided you have access to the open sky. This feature supports SMS apps and preinstalled RCS apps, extending beyond emergency use.

    Find My Phone Network

    The Find My Phone feature gets a significant update. Android 15 phones can ping each other via Bluetooth to help locate lost devices. Nearby Android devices in the Find My network can pick up Bluetooth signals from the broadcasting device and upload encrypted location details to Google’s servers, which can be decrypted by the broadcasting device owner.

    Battery Health

    Android 15 could introduce the much-requested “Battery Health” feature, indicating remaining battery capacity to help users replace the battery at the right time. Though unconfirmed by Google, it may appear in upcoming beta releases.

    App Archiving

    App Archiving lets you uninstall apps while retaining user data, allowing you to resume where you left off when reinstalling. While Google already offers this via the Play Store, Android 15 will extend this capability to apps installed outside the Play Store.

    Partial Screen Sharing

    Partial screen sharing allows users to share and record a single app rather than the entire screen, adding a privacy-focused feature to Android 15.

    Notification Cooldown

    Android 15 introduces the “Notification Cooldown” feature to prevent users from being overwhelmed by multiple notifications from the same app, reducing the volume of successive notifications.

    Sensitive Notifications

    Sensitive notifications in Android 15 prevent malicious third-party apps from reading your OTPs.

    Which Samsung Galaxy device do you own? What are your expectations from One UI 7? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Also, don’t forget to check out our One UI 7 section for the latest news on the new OS.

    More on Android 15:

    1. Android 15 Will be the Final Major Update for These Galaxy Phones
    2. Samsung One UI 7 Update: Eligible Devices, Release Date, and New Features
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  • Tipster Reveals Release of Galaxy Watch Ultra and Watch FE

    Tipster Reveals Release of Galaxy Watch Ultra and Watch FE

    Samsung is preparing for a significant product launch event this summer. Among the anticipated releases are the Fold 6 and Flip 6, but a new leak has revealed the complete lineup we might see at the event.

    Upcoming Samsung Products

    Evan Blass, a reputable tech leaker, has disclosed a list of Samsung products slated for 2024. This lineup includes the newly introduced Galaxy Book 4 Edge and Edge Pro laptops, which are equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X processors.

    Also on the list are two new wireless earbuds: the Galaxy Buds 3 and the premium Buds 3 Pro. Perhaps the most intriguing item is the Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra.

    Exciting Wearables

    Rumors about a high-end smartwatch from Samsung have been circulating for a while, and this leak adds credibility to those claims. Although details are limited, a prior report hinted at a Samsung watch with a square dial and 32GB of storage, though it's uncertain if this pertains to the Watch 7 Ultra.

    The Ultra model will join the standard Watch 7 and is anticipated to run the newest Wear OS 5, layered with Samsung’s One UI Watch 6. Additionally, Samsung is expected to introduce a Galaxy Watch FE, a likely updated version of the Galaxy Watch 4, aimed at a more budget-friendly price point.

    Expanding the Galaxy Ecosystem

    Samsung’s first smart ring, the Galaxy Ring, which made its debut late last year, might also receive a broader release at the forthcoming event.

    Here’s the list of devices shared by the tipster:

    • Laptops: Galaxy Book 4 Edge and Edge Pro (already launched)
    • Audio: Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro
    • Wearables: Galaxy Ring (smart ring), Galaxy Watch FE, Galaxy Watch 7, Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra
    • Foldable: Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Z Fold 6
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  • Samsung’s ‘Back to Campus’ Campaign: Exclusive Student Discounts

    Samsung’s ‘Back to Campus’ Campaign: Exclusive Student Discounts

    Samsung has rolled out special discounts on select Galaxy Book, Galaxy Tab, and Galaxy smartphone models under its latest ‘Back to Campus’ initiative in India. Branded with the slogan ‘Show Them How It’s Done,’ this campaign is designed to provide students with affordable technology solutions to aid their academic and personal development. Here are the details about the new student-centric campaign.

    Key Features of Samsung’s ‘Back to Campus’ Campaign

    Samsung unveils ‘Back to Campus’ campaign

    Samsung’s ‘Back to Campus’ initiative includes discounts up to 10 percent via the Student+ program, bank cashback offers up to Rs 12,000, and upgrade bonuses reaching Rs 8,000 on a variety of Samsung laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Additionally, the company is offering no-cost EMI options for up to 24 months.

    The campaign encompasses a variety of devices including laptops like the Galaxy Book 4, Galaxy Book 3, and Galaxy Book 2 series; tablets such as the Galaxy Tab S9 and Galaxy Tab A9 series; and smartphones from the A-series and S-series.

    Student Exclusive Offers

    Galaxy Book 4 Pro 360: Available at a net price ranging from Rs 153,990 to Rs 1,69,990. The Book 4 lineup boasts Intel Core Ultra processors and Intel Arc GPU for enhanced performance and visuals. It also features a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with anti-reflective and Vision Booster features.

    Galaxy Tab S9 WiFi 128GB: Priced at Rs 60,999, reflecting a Rs 12,000 discount. This series is equipped with a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display supporting HDR10+ and offers an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. The bundled S Pen has improved sensitivity for a better user experience.

    Galaxy S24 (8GB+128GB variant): Starting at Rs 61,999 with a total discount of up to Rs 13,000. The Galaxy S24 series is notable for being Samsung’s first device to feature Galaxy AI, including functionalities like Live Translate, Chat Assist, and Circle to Search. These AI features are also accessible on the Galaxy Tab S9 series through the One UI 6.1 update.

    These offers are available on Samsung.com, select retail stores, and other online platforms starting May 17. For more information, visit the Samsung website or your nearest store.

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  • Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6: Durable UTG Panel for Crease-Free Experience

    Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6: Durable UTG Panel for Crease-Free Experience

    Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 6 may feature a significant display improvement. Reports from Korean media outlet TheElec suggest that Samsung plans to use a thicker Ultra Thin Glass (UTG) on the Z Flip 6’s foldable screen.

    The new UTG is expected to be 50 microns thick, compared to the 30 microns on the Z Flip 5. This increased thickness aims to make the crease on the foldable display less visible and enhance the screen's overall durability.

    Galaxy Z Flip 5

    Samsung has already made strides to reduce the display crease on its current foldable model. For the Flip 5, the company moved away from the traditional hinge mechanism used in previous models and introduced a new waterdrop-style hinge design.

    This new hinge design allows the foldable device’s two halves to close flat without putting excessive pressure on the screen. According to TheElec, the Z Flip 6 will retain the same hinge mechanism as its predecessor.

    Potential Upgrades

    However, the next iteration might see enhancements with a new UTG structure and hinge design. These improvements could further reduce the crease visibility and enable slimmer bezels around the display.

    If the reports are accurate, the thicker UTG could help Samsung better compete with Chinese brands that have been offering nearly crease-less displays on their foldable devices for several years now.

    Additional Features

    Besides the new screen, the Flip 6 is anticipated to come with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, an upgraded primary camera, and a larger battery.

    Samsung is likely to unveil the Galaxy Z Flip 6 alongside the Fold 6 during the Unpacked event, which is rumored to take place in July. We will keep you updated with any new information that comes in regarding these foldable devices.

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  • Samsung Highlights Apple’s iPad Pro Mistake in New Ad

    Samsung Highlights Apple’s iPad Pro Mistake in New Ad

    Apple has introduced its 2024 iPad Pro featuring the M4 chip, but the launch didn’t go as smoothly as planned due to a controversial advertisement. The commercial was intended to highlight the iPad’s sleek design and multifunctionality, capable of replacing various musical instruments, paints, books, cameras, and more.

    The Ad Controversy

    In the ad, Apple destroyed an array of instruments and tools using a massive hydraulic press to unveil the new iPad Pro, claiming it to be their most powerful and thinnest yet. This “Crush!” ad upset many viewers who felt it symbolized a disregard for artists and creatives. Samsung took notice of the backlash.

    Samsung’s Response

    Samsung responded with a commercial promoting the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, emphasizing that “creativity cannot be crushed.” Unlike Apple’s ad, Samsung’s commercial demonstrated how technology can complement traditional tools, showing respect for the artistic process.

    Samsung’s ad featured a person picking up a damaged guitar and playing it, with the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra displaying musical notes, highlighting a harmonious blend of technology and creativity.

    Apple’s Apology

    Apple quickly issued an apology for the controversial ad before Samsung released its counter-commercial. The apology acknowledged that the ad “missed the mark” and announced the cancellation of the TV campaign. Apple’s VP of marketing communications stated, “Creativity is in our DNA at Apple, and it’s incredibly important to us to design products that empower creatives all over the world. Our goal is to always celebrate the myriad of ways users express themselves and bring their ideas to life through the iPad. We missed the mark with this video, and we’re sorry.”

    However, the “Crush!” ad remains available on YouTube and can be viewed below.

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