Samsung Unveils the Galaxy S9 and S9+
This week, Samsung has finally unveiled the much anticipated Galaxy S9 and S9+ following weeks of leaks. Although the company is primarily focussed on the camera in their advertisements, the model presents an array of new features and updates.
Nonetheless, the camera is, perhaps, the most remarkable feature of the phone. Samsung has introduced new technology into the market: variable aperture on a smartphone camera. Essentially, the camera can adjust depending on how much light it is exposed to in order to take the best shot. The primary camera can switch between an F1.5 and F2.4. In addition, the S9+ model now comes with dual cameras. These updates also come with new software. For example, Samsung introduced AR Emoji, which although similar to the Animoji from Apple, allows for longer recording time, more customization, and different filters — more like a bitmoji than an emoji. Furthermore, the phone can now take super slow motion footage at 960 frames per second. However, this is only motion activated and provides only 6 seconds of footage (it doesn’t record for 6 seconds). Finally, Bixby is now built into the camera allowing for live translation of text on the camera without taking pictures.
Other less advertised changes include a revised speaker system, security settings, and updated internals. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ now allow for stereo speakers, claiming up to 40% louder audio. Also, the fingerprint sensor has been moved to under the camera, following customer dissatisfaction in the S8. Similarly, the facial recognition has been improved and iris scanning has once again been included in this model. The internal specifications have been significantly improved by using the updated Snapdragon 845 in North America (an updated Exynos will be used internationally). Samsung Dex now has a new dock with the ability to use the S9 or S9+ as a trackpad.
Although much of the phone looks similar — putting aside new colors for a minute — to its predecessor, Samsung has created a more powerful, feature packed, elegant flagship.
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