Everything you need to know about the new Samsung Galaxy launch

As is customary at this time of year, Samsung have held their annual conference to launch new products for 2019. But unlike previous years, 2019 has developed an inordinate amount of buzz — with 5G developments on the horizon and rumours of brand-new tech being unveiled — and it didn’t disappoint. Samsung have revealed multiple new models, including a new flag-ship device, a budget-conscious alternative (a response to last year’s incredibly successful iPhone XR?), and a revolutionary folding device. Let’s unpack everything and find out what’s in store for Android lovers in 2019.

Samsung Galaxy S10

The S10, as you might expect, is the direct successor of 2018’s Galaxy S9, making it Samsung’s new flagship device. Unlike the S9 Note and other larger models that were released throughout last year, it does not include a smart pen, however, it is packed with improved features and ‘firsts’ for smartphone technology.

One of the most obvious changes is that the notch, which was present on the S9 and has become a trend in modern smartphone design, is completely gone in favour of an expanded screen. Samsung have identified this as their Infinity-O display, boasting an increase in picture quality and functionality. Aside from other technical innovations such as better performance and improved wireless charging, the S10 boasts “the world’s first” in-screen fingerprint scanner. Unlike other smartphone models which have the scanner button on the front, back, or side, the Galaxy S10 has an Ultrasonic display, meaning the scanner can be in-built on the screen.

In terms of price, the S10 will be starting at £899. If this price remains the same upon release, the S10 will be roughly the same price as the S9 was on its launch. But considering the price, it might be worth investing in comprehensive phone insurance to protect your device.

Samsung Galaxy S10e

Essentially, the S10e is a smaller, more budget-friendly version of the flagship model, with stripped-back features. While it retains much of the power and battery-life, the S10e has a 5.8” HD+ flat screen, missing the distinct curve of other, higher price models. Similarly, it only has two cameras on the back, rather than three, and a finger print scanner on the side rather than directly on the screen. While many of Galaxy S10e’s features do not match the S10, they are perfect for the price of the smartphone. According to Samsung, the Galaxy S10e will begin at £669 — a fairly reasonable price for a feature-packed, modern smartphone.

5G Galaxy S10

There’s been near-constant rumours circulating about which smartphone manufacturer will be the first to release a 5G-ready device. With the release of the Galaxy S10, Samsung have also announced that their 5G model will be coming in the second quarter of 2019. The features of this new model will be generally consistent with the normal S10, however, it will be more powerful and have a 3D-enabled camera, as well as the 5G connectivity. The only downside is that the 5G variant won’t be ready until 5G is rolled out across the networks, and even then, it may only be applicable in certain areas. Also, due to the costs involved, the device is likely to be more expensive than other models.

Samsung Galaxy Fold

The Samsung Galaxy Fold is by far the most interesting and innovative device to be announced by Samsung in 2019. Essentially a tablet within a smartphone, the Fold is a 4.6” smartphone device that ‘folds out’ to become a 7.3” widescreen display, allowing for increased usability and features, such as three-app multi-tasking. To accommodate the device’s dual functionality, it is incredibly powerful, with up to 12GBs of RAM, 512GB of storage, and a 4,380mAh battery. The Fold will also have 5G comparability when the network is launched. As you might expect, the Fold is going to be far more expensive than the Galaxy S10, launching at $1,980 (UK pricing TBC). While it may be the most expensive model on the market, it’s range of features and unique format may well set a trend for the smartphones of the future.