Samsung has officially taken the wraps off its new Galaxy Note 4 and Galaxy Note Edge phablets, as well as the new Gear S smartwatch.
The company kicked off its Unpacked Episode 2 event as expected, where it finally introduced its highly-anticipated Galaxy Note 4. The new flagship phablet, however, made its debut with a twin brother by its side, in the form of the new Galaxy Note Edge. The Gear S smartwatch, meanwhile, made its debut a bit earlier, but Samsung is nonetheless showcasing it at the show for more information.
"Offering a new dimension to Samsung's unique Note culture, the Galaxy Note 4 and Note edge strengthen Samsung's category leadership with the most progressive devices on the market," the company touts in its press release on Wednesday, Sept. 3.
"The Galaxy Note series signaled extraordinary innovation within the technology industry. Its larger screen size and iconic S Pen technology launched a new standard in smartphone culture," further boasts JK Shin, CEO and Head of IT & Mobile Communication at Samsung Electronics. "With the introduction of the Galaxy Note series, we brought the age-old culture of the pen and notepad into the digital world. The new Galaxy Note 4 introduces the most refined Note experience to-date by combining all the latest technology that users expect from the Galaxy series."
Samsung Galaxy Note 4
As expected, the new Samsung Galaxy Note 4 boasts notable improvements over its predecessor. First of all, the new-generation phablet comes with a stronger and lighter design, complete with a metal frame around its edges that makes it look not only sturdier, but also more stylish.
When it comes to specifications, the Galaxy Note 4 boasts a 5.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a QHD resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels, marking a 30 percent increase in pixel density compared to the Galaxy Note 3.
Other specs include a 16-megapixel rear camera with sharp zoom, as well as a 3.7-megapixel front shooter perfect for high-quality selfies and video chats. The new phablet's battery life is also arguably better, charging half-way in just half an hour, according to Samsung.
In terms of availability, the new Samsung Galaxy Note 4 will hit AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, T-Mobile, and US Cellular in the U.S. Color options will include Charcoal Black, Frost White, Bronze Gold, and Blossom Pink.
Samsung Galaxy Note Edge
Samsung also launched a new Galaxy Note Edge, which marks an important step forward for the company. The Note Edge boasts a neat curved touchscreen with an independent edge, aiming to further enhance the Galaxy Note experience.
"Samsung's relentless pursuit of the best in innovation through the optimization of mobile technology and the user experience has led to the debut of the innovative and unique Galaxy Note Edge," Samsung further touts in its press release. "Taking the Galaxy Note experience to the next level, the Note Edge provides users with a new way to access information, engage with their mobile device, and express their personality and tastes. The Galaxy Note Edge's unique curved Edge screen provides quick access to frequently used apps, alerts and device functionality - even when the cover is closed - all with the swipe of a thumb. Users can also receive notifications directly on the Edge Screen while watching videos without disturbing their viewing."
The Galaxy Note Edge is virtually identical to the Note 4, save for the sharp display that wraps around its edges. At the same time, its display is also slightly smaller, measuring 5.6 inches instead of the Note 4's 5.7 inches. The rest of the specifications are the same as the ones found on the Note 4, including the QHD resolution. Samsung promised to grant developers access to the software development kit (SDK) to build apps for the Edge display.
The Samsung Galaxy Note Edge will be available in Charcoal Black and Frost White color options in select markets later this year. In the U.S., the handset will land on AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile.
The company has yet to provide pricing details for the Galaxy Note 4 and the Galaxy Note Edge, but it will offer more information closer to launch.
