Samsung Galaxy S3 launched

Samsung has launched the latest model in its flagship Galaxy S range of Android smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy S3, at an event in London tonight (3 May 2012).

Refuting the original rumour of a full HD display, Samsung announced that the Galaxy S3 boasts a resolution of 720×1280 on a 4.8-inch Super AMOLED screen.

According to Samsung, the device will have a 2,100mAh battery and be housed in a frame 8.6mm thick, weighing 133g.

To charge the battery Samsung said it would offer a number of options, including a charging stand and a wireless charging kit. The manufacturer wasn’t clear about whether these would be included with the device or be sold separately.

The device will come in 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB variants and have the ability to expand the available storage space with a microSD card of up to 32GB.

Another rumour that proved false was that sparked by an Amazon Germany listing which mentioned a 12 megapixel camera – the Galaxy S3 includes an 8 megapixel rear-facing camera with no shutter lag.

Samsung Galaxy S3

However, Samsung said that the Galaxy S3 isn’t just about the improvement in specs, but includes a number of features to improve usability.

While the Galaxy Nexus had a camera with no shutter lag, for instance, the Samsung Galaxy S3 uses the technology in a feature it calls “Best Photo”.

This lets you take a series of photographs and the device chooses the best one, according to Samsung.

Samsung went so far as to say that the device “sees you, listens to you, and understands you.”

With “Smart Stay”, the Galaxy S3 recognises your eye movements as you’re watching the screen and keeps it on while you’re using it.

“S Voice” is a voice recognition and natural language processing application included with the device that Samsung said understands 8 languages.

Apple launched a similar feature on the iPhone 4S last year and although the comparison was never made by the presenters, it is impossible not to call S Voice “Siri for Samsung”.

Another usability feature announced for the device is “Direct Call”, which lets you dial by just picking up the device.

The Galaxy S3 will also have a “Smart Alert” feature which lets you know about missed calls and messages when you pick it up.

Samsung said that the device will be launched in 145 countries, partnering with 296 mobile operators around the world. The 3G version will be launched on 29 May 2012, starting with Europe.

Samsung Galaxy S3

Related articles

Samsung Galaxy S3 rumour control

Samsung Galaxy S3 confirmed for South Africa

Jan Vermeulen attended Samsung Mobile Unpacked as a guest of Samsung South Africa