Tag: Samsung

  • Global smartphone market grows 6% YoY in Q1 2024

    Global smartphone market grows 6% YoY in Q1 2024

    The global smartphone market experienced a 6% year-on-year growth in the first quarter of 2024, as per the latest report by Counterpoint Research. This growth marked the highest revenue ever generated from smartphone sales in a first quarter. With a total of 296.9 million shipments, Samsung surpassed Apple to claim the top spot in the smartphone market.

    Samsung Surpasses Apple as Global Smartphone Leader

    The Counterpoint Market Monitor service’s quarterly analysis sheds light on the global smartphone market’s recent performance. The growth in shipments was primarily driven by strong showings in key regions like Europe, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East. Notably, emerging markets continued to exhibit robust momentum, particularly in Europe. Overall, consumer demand has been steadily increasing, accompanied by enhancements in inventory levels across various markets.

    The smartphone market dynamics in the first quarter of 2024 revealed some noteworthy trends. Revenue from premium smartphone offerings is on the rise at a faster pace compared to shipment growth. This trend is expected to continue, driven by innovations in form factors like foldable smartphones and advanced features. Samsung took the lead in global smartphone shipments with a 20% market share, displacing Apple. Meanwhile, Apple experienced a 13% year-on-year decline in shipments primarily due to high inventory levels from the previous quarter. Among the top five smartphone brands, Xiaomi from China saw the most substantial growth, with a 34% increase in shipments year-on-year.

    The performance of smartphone brands varied across different regions. For instance, Transsion brands like Tecno, Itel, and Infinix performed well in Eastern Europe, India, APAC, and MEA regions. In contrast, OPPO witnessed declines in several markets, indicating heightened competition. Xiaomi, on the other hand, demonstrated growth across most key markets. Looking ahead, the outlook for the next quarter appears optimistic, with trends expected to continue beyond the second quarter of 2024.


    Global smartphone market grows 6% YoY in Q1 2024
  • Samsung HW-LS60D Music Frame Wireless Speaker with Dolby Atmos

    Samsung HW-LS60D Music Frame Wireless Speaker with Dolby Atmos

    Samsung has unveiled its latest audio product, the Samsung Music Frame HW-LS60D wireless speaker. This innovative 6-speaker system comes with Dolby Atmos support and is compatible with popular music streaming services such as Spotify and Tidal. Initially showcased at the 2024 World of Samsung event, this speaker is designed to resemble a picture frame and offers seamless wireless audio streaming from a variety of devices including TVs, smartphones, digital audio players, computers, and game consoles.

    Design and Functionality

    The Samsung Music Frame is not just a speaker but a piece of art that enhances the room’s aesthetic. It can be effortlessly mounted on a wall or placed on a table, with the flexibility to swap out the frame and its accompanying 8 x 8-inch matted photographs. Featuring Adaptive Sound technology, this speaker ensures clear dialogue output across all volume levels when connected to a TV. It can function as a standalone external TV speaker or be integrated with existing Samsung TV speakers and sound bars for an enhanced audio experience. Moreover, the product offers automatic room optimization for a truly immersive listening environment.

    Advanced Features and Connectivity

    Equipped with Spotify and Tidal Hi-Fi support, the Samsung HW-LS60D enables seamless streaming of high-quality audio content. It boasts compatibility with Hi-Res and MP3 to FLAC AV decoding, along with Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity for easy pairing with Samsung smartphones. Additionally, the speaker can be linked to home theater setups using an optical Toslink cable. Smart assistants like Alexa, Airplay, and Chromecast are also integrated into this wireless speaker for added convenience.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Samsung HW-LS60D Music Frame wireless speaker is priced at $399 and is available for purchase through various retail channels including Amazon and BestBuy.


    Samsung HW-LS60D Music Frame Wireless Speaker with Dolby Atmos
  • Latest Samsung Phones Receiving One UI 6.1 Update Featuring Galaxy AI

    Latest Samsung Phones Receiving One UI 6.1 Update Featuring Galaxy AI

    Samsung has initiated the rollout of the One UI 6.1 update to a broader range of devices, beginning today. As assured by the company, the update is now being deployed to devices such as the Galaxy S22 family, the Galaxy S21 series, the Galaxy Z Flip4, the Galaxy Z Flip3, the Galaxy Z Fold4, and the Galaxy Z Fold3.

    One UI 6.1 Update Expansion

    The current rollout is primarily focused on South Korea, with a global expansion for other regions expected shortly. The highlight of the One UI 6.1 update is the introduction of Galaxy AI features.

    For older flagship models, Samsung is offering a partial selection of these features rather than the complete suite. Nevertheless, these additions are anticipated to enhance the overall user experience in multiple aspects.

    Galaxy AI Features Breakdown

    • Galaxy S21 series: Users will have access to Circle to Search, a highly anticipated feature of Galaxy AI. This functionality enables users to draw a circle around an object they wish to learn more about, prompting AI to retrieve relevant information.
    • Galaxy Z Flip3: Similar to the S21 lineup, the Z Flip3 will also receive Circle to Search.
    • Galaxy Z Fold3: Surprisingly, the Fold3 will benefit from an extensive array of Galaxy AI features. These include AI-generated wallpapers, webpage summarization, notes summarization, auto templates in Samsung Notes, live language translation, image editing suggestions, generative AI-powered editing, Interpreter Mode, and voice transcription in Voice Recorder.
    • Galaxy S22 series, Z Flip4, Z Fold4: These devices are set to receive the complete suite of Galaxy AI features, aligning them with the Galaxy S24 series.

    Samsung is intensifying efforts to extend its smart features to a wider range of phones, with a target of surpassing 100 million devices equipped with Galaxy AI by the year's end.

    Expansion and Future Prospects

    This objective appears feasible with the latest deployment, especially considering that the forthcoming Fold6 and Flip6 will come pre-installed with these features. Overall, the One UI 6.1 update introduces advanced functionalities to numerous Samsung devices. While its availability remains limited currently, a broader rollout is imminent.

  • Latest Samsung Phones Receiving One UI 6.1 Update

    Latest Samsung Phones Receiving One UI 6.1 Update

    Samsung has initiated the rollout of the One UI 6.1 update to a broader range of devices, beginning today. As assured by the company, the update is now being deployed to devices such as the Galaxy S22 family, the Galaxy S21 series, the Galaxy Z Flip4, the Galaxy Z Flip3, the Galaxy Z Fold4, and the Galaxy Z Fold3.

    One UI 6.1 Update Expansion

    The current rollout is primarily focused on South Korea, with a global expansion for other regions expected shortly. The highlight of the One UI 6.1 update is the introduction of Galaxy AI features.

    For older flagship models, Samsung is offering a partial selection of these features rather than the complete suite. Nevertheless, these additions are anticipated to enhance the overall user experience in multiple aspects.

    Galaxy AI Features Breakdown

    • Galaxy S21 series: Users will have access to Circle to Search, a highly anticipated feature of Galaxy AI. This functionality enables users to draw a circle around an object they wish to learn more about, prompting AI to retrieve relevant information.
    • Galaxy Z Flip3: Similar to the S21 lineup, the Z Flip3 will also receive Circle to Search.
    • Galaxy Z Fold3: Surprisingly, the Fold3 will benefit from an extensive array of Galaxy AI features. These include AI-generated wallpapers, webpage summarization, notes summarization, auto templates in Samsung Notes, live language translation, image editing suggestions, generative AI-powered editing, Interpreter Mode, and voice transcription in Voice Recorder.
    • Galaxy S22 series, Z Flip4, Z Fold4: These devices are set to receive the complete suite of Galaxy AI features, aligning them with the Galaxy S24 series.

    Samsung is intensifying efforts to extend its smart features to a wider range of phones, with a target of surpassing 100 million devices equipped with Galaxy AI by the year's end.

    Expansion and Future Prospects

    This objective appears feasible with the latest deployment, especially considering that the forthcoming Fold6 and Flip6 will come pre-installed with these features. Overall, the One UI 6.1 update introduces advanced functionalities to numerous Samsung devices. While its availability remains limited currently, a broader rollout is imminent.

  • Samsung Galaxy F55 5G Specifications & Indian Price Leak

    Samsung Galaxy F55 5G Specifications & Indian Price Leak

    Samsung is gearing up to introduce its latest smartphone, the Galaxy F55 5G, in the Indian market soon. Recently spotted on Geekbench, TheTechOutlook has revealed the pricing and specifications of this upcoming device.

    Pricing and Configurations

    According to reports, the Galaxy F55 5G will be available in three configurations in India: 8GB/128GB, 8GB/256GB, and 12GB/256GB, priced at Rs.26,999, Rs.29,999, and Rs.32,999, respectively. Additionally, Samsung will offer bank discounts on specific cards, reducing the cost of each variant by Rs. 2000.

    Design and Features

    The Samsung Galaxy F55 5G boasts a Vegan Leather back panel that has undergone rigorous testing for durability against extreme temperatures, cosmetics exposure, solar radiation, and salt spray. It will be released in two colors: Raisin Black and Apricot Crush.

    Specifications

    The device will sport a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED+ Infinity-O display with Full HD+ resolution, a 120 Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 1000 nits. Powering the phone is the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 processor.

    Camera and Battery

    On the rear, the Galaxy F55 5G will house a triple camera setup with 50MP main, 8MP, and 2MP sensors, while the front will feature a 50MP camera for high-quality selfies. It will come equipped with features like enhanced night photography and super HDR video. The device will be fueled by a 5000 mAh battery with 45W fast charging support.

    Security and Updates

    For security, Samsung has integrated the Knox Vault and an in-display fingerprint sensor. The Galaxy F55 5G is expected to receive four years of OS updates and five years of security updates. Although there is no official launch date announced by Samsung yet, teasers indicate that the unveiling is imminent.


  • Samsung One UI 7 Update: Eligible Devices, Release Date & Features

    Samsung One UI 7 Update: Eligible Devices, Release Date & Features

    Google has commenced testing its upcoming operating system, Android 15, with developer preview versions already in circulation. The new OS is currently in the beta testing stage, set to continue until July. Although the stable release of Android 15 is still a few months away, Samsung Galaxy users are eager to learn about its launch date, anticipated features, and the devices eligible for the One UI 7 upgrade.

    Android 15-based One UI 7 Update Details

    Samsung Galaxy device owners are keen to know about the Android 15-based One UI 7 update. Here is a breakdown of eligible devices for this upgrade:

    Samsung Galaxy One UI 7 (Android 15) Eligible Devices List:

    • [Galaxy S series]
    • [Galaxy Z series]
    • [Galaxy Tab series]
    • [Galaxy A series]
    • [Galaxy M series]
    • [Galaxy F series]
    • [Galaxy Xcover series]

    This list, although unofficial, is expected to align closely with Samsung’s software update policy and past update rollouts.

    Samsung guarantees a minimum of two Android updates for all Galaxy devices. Consequently, devices launched with Android 13 or 14 will be eligible for the Android 15-based One UI 7 update. Moreover, flagship and mid-range phones receive four years of OS upgrades, ensuring that devices launched with Android 11 or later will also be upgraded to Android 15.

    Android 15 Release Timeline

    The release of a new Android OS involves various developmental and testing phases before the stable version is made public. As Android 15 transitions from the developer preview to the beta testing phase, which concludes in July, the platform approaches stability to address bugs and issues for a smooth release.

    While Google has not disclosed the exact release date for stable Android 15 builds, it is anticipated to arrive around October 2024, coinciding with the launch of the Pixel 9 series. Following the Pixel devices, Samsung devices are expected to receive the Android 15 update, with a post-stable release period dedicated to integrating One UI with the new OS.

    New Features in Android 15

    Several features have been unveiled or uncovered in Android 15 beta builds, including:

    1. Satellite Connectivity Support
    2. Partial Screen Sharing
    3. Notification Cooldown
    4. Sensitive Notifications
    5. High-Quality Webcam
    6. Universal Keyboard Vibration Control

    These enhancements aim to provide users with improved functionality and security within the Android ecosystem.

    For those eagerly anticipating Android 15, what are your expectations? Additionally, which Samsung Galaxy device do you currently own? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.

    For more stories on Android 15:

    1. Android 15 adds audio sharing to multiple devices via Bluetooth Auracast
    2. Android 15 lets you find your smartphone even when it is powered off
    3. Android 15’s Dessert-themed Codename Is Apparently ‘Vanilla Ice Cream’

    Samsung One UI 7 Update: Eligible Devices, Release Date & Features
  • Samsung Confirms Premium Galaxy Watch Models

    Samsung Confirms Premium Galaxy Watch Models

    As per speculations, Samsung is rumored to be expanding its Galaxy Watch lineup by introducing three models instead of the usual two, signaling a strategic shift for the company. This shift is supported by insights from Samsung’s Q1 earnings call announcement. The South Korean tech giant recently disclosed key details regarding its future wearable devices strategy.

    Samsung’s Enhanced Wearables Strategy

    In its press release, Samsung highlighted its intention to enhance the overall Galaxy ecosystem experience by introducing new models and different form factors such as the Galaxy Ring. This emphasis suggests that Samsung may soon unveil additional models within the Galaxy Watch series, although the specific naming conventions are yet to be revealed. Reports suggest that Samsung is developing a more budget-friendly Galaxy Watch tentatively named the Galaxy Watch 4 (2024). Furthermore, there are hints that Samsung might return to a rectangular design for one of the forthcoming models in the Watch 7 series.

    Evolving Towards Premium Galaxy Watch Models

    Samsung’s official statement also hints at the launch of more wearable devices resembling the Galaxy Ring in terms of form factor. The press release mentions that "the company will strive to meet demand for upgrades through the launch of new premium models." This implies that user-requested enhancements are likely to be incorporated into the upcoming premium Galaxy Watch models. While the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic currently serves as Samsung’s premium offering, consumers can anticipate a higher-tier model, possibly named Pro or Ultra, within the upcoming Galaxy Watch 7 series.

    Anticipated Unveiling at Galaxy Unpacked Event

    The Galaxy Watch 7 series, along with the speculated Galaxy Ring, is highly anticipated to make their debut at the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event scheduled for July 10th.

  • Samsung to Mass-Produce 2nm Chips with GAA Technology in 2025

    Samsung to Mass-Produce 2nm Chips with GAA Technology in 2025

    Samsung's semiconductor foundry division has encountered challenges in attracting clients for its latest chip manufacturing technologies, particularly the 3nm and 4nm processes. Despite these hurdles, Samsung remains committed to advancing its technology, with plans to introduce the 2nm process.

    Advancements in Chip Manufacturing

    Samsung is set to commence mass production of chips utilizing the 3nm technology later this year. The upcoming 2nm process will integrate state-of-the-art gate-around transistor (GAA) technology, slated for mass production by 2025. Samsung intends to unveil this cutting-edge technology at forthcoming industry events.

    Gate-Around Transistor Technology

    The GAA technology represents a novel transistor design that enhances efficiency and performance by facilitating improved current flow. Initially incorporated in Samsung's 3nm process, GAA technology has only been utilized in their Exynos processors to date. The first-generation 3nm GAA chip surpasses 5nm chips in terms of area reduction, performance, and energy efficiency.

    Future Prospects

    Samsung aims to scale up chip production using the second-generation 3nm GAA technology by 2024, anticipating even more significant advancements. While rivals like TSMC have yet to adopt GAA technology, both Samsung and TSMC, as well as Intel, are expected to integrate it into their upcoming 2nm processes.

  • China-exclusive Galaxy C55 launching in India as F-series phone

    China-exclusive Galaxy C55 launching in India as F-series phone

    Samsung has officially announced the introduction of the Galaxy F55 in the Indian market. Initially speculated to be a rebranded Galaxy M55, it has now been clarified that the F55 is essentially the Indian version of the Galaxy C55 which was previously exclusive to China.

    Design and Color Options

    The Galaxy F55 inherits the design elements of the C55, featuring a vegan leather back cover with a stitched design. While the teaser showcases an Orange color variant, it is anticipated that a Black version will also be available, similar to the C55.

    Specifications Overview

    In terms of specifications, the Galaxy F55 is expected to mirror the features of the Galaxy M55 and C55. Powered by a mid-range Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 processor, the device will offer options of 8GB or 12GB of RAM along with 256GB of storage capacity.

    Display and Battery

    The smartphone will sport a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED+ panel with FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals. Fueling these capabilities will be a substantial 5,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging support.

    Camera and Pricing Details

    Rumors indicate that the Galaxy F55 will boast a triple-camera setup at the rear, featuring a 50MP main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 5MP additional sensor for macro or depth sensing. For selfies, a 50MP front-facing camera housed within a punch-hole cutout is expected.

    Samsung India has yet to disclose the pricing and availability specifics for the Galaxy F55. However, recent leaks have surfaced suggesting the pricing for different variants in India. The base model with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage is estimated to retail at Rs 26,999. The mid-tier option with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage is projected to be priced at Rs 29,999, while the top-tier variant offering 12GB RAM and 256GB storage is anticipated to be available for Rs 32,999.

  • Galaxy Devices Excluded from One UI 6.1 Update

    Galaxy Devices Excluded from One UI 6.1 Update

    One UI 6.1 presents a thrilling advancement by introducing several exciting AI features like AI wallpaper, circle to search, generative edit, chat assist, and live translation. Alongside these AI enhancements, the update also brings a host of non-AI features and improvements. Regrettably, not all Galaxy devices will be able to enjoy these new features, as One UI 6.1 will only be available for select devices.

    List of Devices Ineligible for One UI 6.1 Update

    Samsung has not yet released an official list, but based on previous One UI rollout patterns, the following Galaxy phones and tablets are unlikely to receive the One UI 6.1 update:

    [Galaxy S-series]

    • Galaxy S20 series
    • Galaxy S10 series
    • Galaxy S9 series
    • Prior S-series launches

    [Galaxy A-series]

    • Galaxy A12
    • Galaxy A32 (4G & 5G)
    • Galaxy A03 / A03s / A03 Core
    • Galaxy A12 / A12 Nacho
    • Galaxy A22 / A22 5G
    • Galaxy A32 / A32 5G
    • Galaxy A02 / A02s
    • Devices launched before 2021

    [Galaxy M-series]

    • Galaxy M04
    • Galaxy M52 5G
    • Galaxy M21 (2021)
    • Galaxy M32
    • Galaxy M42
    • Galaxy M12
    • Galaxy M62
    • Galaxy M02s
    • Galaxy M02
    • Devices launched before 2021

    [Galaxy F-series]

    • Galaxy F04
    • Galaxy F42 5G
    • Galaxy F22
    • Galaxy F52 5G
    • Galaxy F12
    • Galaxy F02s
    • Galaxy F62
    • Devices launched before 2021

    [Galaxy Z-series]

    • Galaxy Z Fold 2
    • Galaxy Z Flip 2
    • Galaxy Z Fold
    • Galaxy Z Flip

    [Galaxy Tab-series]

    • All Galaxy Tabs launched before 2021 will not receive the One UI 6.1 update.

    [Galaxy Xcover-series]

    • All Galaxy Xcover phones launched before 2021 will not receive the One UI 6.1 update.

    If your Samsung Galaxy device is not listed above, it is likely eligible for the anticipated One UI 6.1 update.

    Expectations for One UI 6.1

    For those fortunate to have a Samsung Galaxy device eligible for the upcoming One UI upgrade, anticipation for new features and enhancements is high. Here are key highlights to look forward to:

    1. Galaxy AI Features
      • The AI features included in One UI 6.1 are reserved for select Galaxy devices such as the Galaxy S22 series, S23 series (including S23 FE), Galaxy Tab S9 series (including Tab S9 FE, Tab S9 FE+), Tab S8 series, Galaxy Z Fold 5/Flip 5, Galaxy Z Fold 4/Flip 4. Users of these devices can enjoy features like AI Wallpaper, Real-Time Translation, Circle to Search, Note Assist, Browser Assist, and Generative Edit post the One UI 6.1 update.
    2. Smoother Animations
      • Users will notice smoother animations in One UI 6.1, enhancing the overall device experience.
    3. Better Battery Protection
    • The update brings improved battery protection with three modes: Basic, Adaptive, and Maximum, catering to different user needs for battery health and longevity.
    1. New Widgets
      • Discover new widgets for the home screen and lock screen, enriching personalization options.

    These are just a few highlights of the many changes, enhancements, and additions that One UI 6.1 offers, which users can explore further in the changelog upon updating their devices.