The mobile all screen. This is how forceful the Samsung Galaxy S8 is presented, along with its older brother Samsung Galaxy S8 +. Two teams that represent a revolution in the design of the star terminals of the Korean firm. Goodbye to the physical start button. Hello to the curved screen with hardly any borders. But this is not the only one of the Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 + features that stand out. Performance, camera and special functions come together to shape one of the terminals of the year.
All this with a goodbye: the flat screen of the Samsung Galaxy S7. The two versions of this year bet on a curved SuperAMOLED panel. Its main difference is in size . While the Samsung Galaxy S8 bets on 5.8 inches, the Galaxy S8 + goes up to 6.2 inches . With the change in size come differences in dimensions, battery and price. This is our first review of the Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 + .
Main features of the Samsung Galaxy S8 and Samsung Galaxy S8 +
| screen | 5.8 ”QHD + SuperAMOLED (2960 x 1440 pixels) / 6.2” QHD + SuperAMOLED (2960 X 1440 pixels) | |
| Main chamber | 12 megapixels, f / 1.7 and optical stabilizer. 4K video | |
| Camera for selfies | 8 megapixels, f / 1.7 | |
| Internal memory | 64 GB / Expandable via microSD card | |
| Extension | microSD up to 256GB | |
| Processor and RAM | Eight-core Exynos. 4 x 1.7 GHz + 4 X 2.5 ghZ | |
| Battery | 3,000 mAh, fast and wireless charging / 3,500 mAh fast and wireless charging | |
| Operating system | Android 7.0 Nougat / Samsung Touchwiz | |
| Connections | BT 5.0, GPS, USB Type-C, NFC, 4G | |
| SIM | nanoSIM | |
| Design | Metal and glass, IP68 certified, fingerprint reader | |
| Dimensions | 148.9 x 68.1 x 8.0 mm, 155 g / 159.5 x 73.4 x 8.1 mm, 173 g | |
| Featured Features | Bixby, Samsung Dex, Samsung Connect, iris scanner | |
| Release date | April 2017 | |
| Price | Samsung Galaxy S8, 810 euros / Samsung Galaxy S8 + 910 euros |
Design
Back of the Samsung Galaxy S8 + and Galaxy S8
The design of the Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 + is renewed, improving some points and adding other differentials. What is maintained are the construction materials. Aluminum for the inside of the body and the edges and glass for its back and front . These materials have suited the Samsung Galaxy S6 or Samsung Galaxy S7 edge very well, and it was not surprising that they included it in the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus. And again, Samsung reintroduces water resistance, it remains IP68 certified, which makes it dust resistant and submersible for 30 minutes up to 1 meter deep.
At the rear of these teams we find a fundamental change. The fingerprint reader is located next to the main camera and breaks a tradition deeply rooted in Samsung's flagship phones. Just the opposite that has happened with the Huawei P10, which has brought the sensor to the front. We do not lose the curved sides at the back, which makes the Galaxy S8 more comfortable in hand.
Front Galaxy S8 +, rear Galaxy S8
On the front we see many more news. We continue with the curved screen, but the narrow frames at the top and bottom are striking . And surprise, Samsung has removed the navigation buttons, now they are directly on the screen. With this we get narrower frames, and the front of the device is used more. At the top we find the camera, the iris scanner and the other sensors.
On the frames, on the right we have the on and off button located, while on the left side the volume up and down buttons are housed. In addition to the great novelty: a button dedicated to Bixby, Samsung's virtual assistant. Without a doubt, one of the most curious features of the Samsung Galaxy S8.
At the bottom we have the USB Type C connector, the speaker and the 3.5 mm Jack for the headphones. In addition to a small microphone for calls. At the top we only find another microphone.
Compact sizes for both models
Front of the Samsung Galaxy S8 + and Galaxy S8
In terms of dimensions, the Galaxy S8 is 148.9 x 68.1 x 8.0 millimeters thick , with a weight of 155 grams. While the Galaxy S8 + measures 159.5 x 73.4 x 8.1 millimeters, with 173 grams of weight. If we compare the normal model of the Galaxy S8 with the previous flagship device of the firm, the Galaxy S7 Edge. We see a very great similarity in terms of dimensions. The S8 being a bit thicker. In the Plus model we see more differences in dimensions, being a little larger, but without going over 10 mm.
The Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus will hit the market in different color variants . Among them, a version in gold, black and Silver.
In hand, the Galaxy S8 feels great. Partly thanks to its curved edges on the back, which makes it much better grip in the hand . In addition, due to the narrow frames, the dimensions of the device are reduced, but even so, and especially in the Plus model, it is difficult for us to use it with one hand.
Screen, Samsung says goodbye to frames
As we mentioned earlier, Samsung has launched two different versions, with different screen sizes. The Galaxy S8 includes a 5.8-inch SuperAMOLED panel , with a QHD + resolution (2960 x 1440 pixels) leaving a density of pixels per inch of 570. The Galaxy S8 Plus also includes a SuperAMOLED panel, in this case, 6.2 inches and with QHD + resolution (2960 X 1440 pixels) For this model, the density of pixels per inch drops to 529.
Frameless display on the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 +
The screen ratio also changes on these devices. We now have an 18.5: 9 aspect ratio , something that matches the LG G6. It is more like the format used in motion pictures. With this, we get a greater display when watching videos or movies in horizontal format. And adding the narrow edges, we managed to further increase our experience when we watch multimedia content on the Galaxy S8, and, above all, on the Galaxy S8 Plus. Since its screen is larger. Finally, we must mention that both models include the always-on screen. We can view the time and different notifications from the terminal. We can configure all this through an option in settings and change the design of the clock, add photos, etc.
As for resolution, what could we expect. Bright, sharp and very well rendered colors. Good viewing angles and above average brightness.
More size, more resolution
Galaxy S8 + screen
Comparing the Galaxy S7 Edge to the screen of the Galaxy S8, we can see a significant improvement. Above all, in interpretation of colors and screen brightness . Although the pixel density decreases in the new Samsung smartphone, it increases the quality and the colors.
Galaxy S7 Edge display: 5.5-inch SuperAMOLED QHD resolution (1440 x 2560 pixels)
Galaxy S8 panel: 5.8-inch SuperAMOLED with QHD + resolution (2960 X 1440 pixels)
Galaxy S8 Plus screen: 6.2-inch SuperAMOLED with QHD + resolution (2960 X 1440 pixels)
Processor, storage and connections
There has been a lot of speculation about the processor of the new Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus. Now, we can confirm it. The Korean firm has once again opted for its own processors. Exactly, the one that mounts the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus is the Exynos 8895, with eight cores. Four at 2.3 GHz and another four at 1.7 GHz. With 10-nanometer technology and 64-bit architecture. Being 10% more powerful than the Galaxy S7. 4 GB DDR4 comes with RAM . It should be noted that Samsung will also launch a model with Snapdragon 835 in some countries. In Spain, the version with Exynos will arrive.
The configuration is more than enough to run any type of game and application. In addition, it includes the game mode already seen in other terminals in recent months such as the Samsung Galaxy A5 2017. This mode will help us improve the experience while we play, offering the possibility of freeing up RAM memory, recording the screen, etc.
As for the internal storage. The Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus will have a memory that starts at 64 GB . It is expandable by microSD cards of up to 256 GB capacity.
About connectivity. The Samsung Galaxy S8 includes 4G category 16, Wi-Fi up to 5 GHz, NFC and Bluethoth 5.0 , which will allow transfers of up to 2 Mb per second. On the other hand, the Galaxy S8 and its plus model will include GPS with Glonass. Regarding the connectors, we have to highlight that Samsung will continue to include the 3.5 mm Jack for the headphones. In addition to the now classic, USB type C connector. And of course, wireless connectivity for charging.
Security
Unlocking Galaxy S8 by iris scanner
Samsung has placed a lot of emphasis on security as one of the most prominent features of the Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus and S8. To do this, it implements different software modifications, as well as different unlocking methods. The most traditional in high-end smartphones is the fingerprint reader. In this case, it is also implemented by the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus, but it takes a back seat. The star is the iris scanner. Yes, the one that already incorporated the Galaxy Note 7. In this case it works more than fast, and just by looking at the terminal it is automatically unlocked. As a novelty, the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus include facial recognition unlocking .
On the other hand, we cannot forget about the secure folder. This tool is present in both the Galaxy S7 and the Galaxy A5 and A3. It is an application where we can save our photographs or personal information , safe from any gossip or hacker.
Spectacular camera
Galaxy S8 camera
The Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge camera was already one of the best on the market . And the Samsung Galaxy S8 and Samsung Galaxy S8 + could not be less. The Galaxy S8 has a 12 megapixel camera, accompanied by an f / 1.7 aperture. In addition, it includes an optical image stabilizer and fast focus. And video recording up to 4K resolution.
As for the front camera, in this case it stays at 8 megapixels, but it also includes an f / 1.7 aperture.
As we might expect, the camera on the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus is very bright. It offers good results in almost any circumstance, even in very dark environments. In the front camera we also get very good results. In addition, it includes different filters, being perfect for our selfies and video calls.
On the functions it offers, it seems that Samsung has not wanted to leave anything and has achieved a more than complete camera application. Its interface is very similar to that of previous versions. It has a Material Design style and a menu of modes. To access we will have to slide from left to right, within the modes menu we can select several. Including effects and filters similar to those of the Snapchat application. If in the camera application we slide from right to left, we will give access to its settings. From here you can change the resolution and different parameters of the camera.
In short, a camera that on paper looks more than good, in the absence of which we can test it in all kinds of conditions when we do the analysis of the Samsung Galaxy S8 in depth.
Software and features
Applications panel on the Galaxy S8
The Samsung Galaxy S8, and its older brother, the S8 Plus , come with Android 7.0 Nougat out of the box . And like every year, they incorporate a redesign in their famous customization layer. Android Nougat on the Galaxy S8 brings a new icon design. Now they are more minimalist and continue with the pastel color palette. The main applications also undergo a redesign, with pastel tones and 2D buttons. In addition, they incorporate simpler settings and shortcuts. The pitcher has also undergone a small change. Now we can access all the applications by sliding up. And we can scroll through the drawer of all applications horizontally. We also see a change in the animations, much more fluid.
On the other hand, the Galaxy S8 and Samsung Galaxy S8 + include the main Google applications , such as Gmail, Maps, Duo, Play music etc. And also the main ones from Microsoft, such as Word, Excel, Onote, Skype and Ondrive.
Samsung Connect
Samsung has also launched an application, very similar to what we had already seen in Google Home. It is a specific app to control all our connected devices . For example, if we have a robot vacuum cleaner, through the application we can make it turn on at a certain time, and clean the floor. At the moment it is only available for the electrical appliances of the firm itself. But the most important thing in this section is not only the design and the pre-installed applications, but the exclusive functions of the Samsung Galaxy S8.
Bixby
It sounds like the name of a dog, but it is much more. Bixby is the new personal assistant for Samsung mobiles . It is a kind of Gogle Assistant, but with many more options, which comes to compete with Siri or Cortana.
Bixby interface on the Samsung Galaxy S8
To wake up Bixby, we can do it through the specially dedicated button, which is located on the left side of the device, below the volume buttons. Pressing that button will open the wizard, which is an application where we can see different information, such as the weather, the news, etc. And configure different parameters. On the other hand, we can also talk to Bixby through different voice commands, and ask what the weather is like, the traffic, etc.
One of the most striking functions of Bixby is the interaction with objects. We can take a photograph of an object, such as a television, and once it recognizes it. We can look for similar images or even see if it is available in a store to buy it. All this, without leaving the assistant.
At the moment , Samsung's virtual assistant will only arrive on the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus. It will come standard in English and Korean . But it is expected that in a short time it will be updated to support Spanish (American) and Chinese. It is estimated that in the second half of this year it will be able to arrive in the official language of our country.
Samsung Dex
It has already been rumored about this new configuration on the Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus, and it has finally been made official. Through a small base, which will be sold separately, we can connect our device and link it to a monitor with HDMI. If we connect a keyboard and a mouse to the base, we can use the computer function of the Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus . It continues to work under Android 7.0 Nougat, but with some modifications to be able to use the services of Samsung, Google and Microsoft in a simple way.
Without a doubt, some very interesting functions, which will make this Galaxy S8 a perfect smartphone for entertainment and productivity.
Battery
The Samsung Galaxy S8 includes a non-removable battery, with a capacity of 3,000 mAh. While the Samsung Galaxy S8 + model increases the capacity to 3,500 mAh . Both models include Samsung's new fast charging technology in addition to wireless charging.
On paper, it should reach the day of normal use without problem.
accessories
This year, the Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus come packed with accessories. And not just official covers. Accessories that allow us to interact with the device in a different way, and designed for entertainment and productivity.
But of course, the official wireless charging base could not be missing , which in this case includes fast charging. We also have different covers with covers and the well-known Samsung keyboard cover. Also an external battery, also with fast charge.
Samsung 360 degree camera
But the big news is the Gear VR glasses with GamePad. It will make our experience when driving and playing with the virtual reality glasses much better. In addition, it includes configurations in the system, such as its own application, which will facilitate the user experience with the new Gear VR.
And surprisingly, Samsung brings us a renewal of its famous 360-degree camera. The new Gear 360 can record videos in 4K and with the maximum supported angle of view (360 degrees) . In addition, it presents a more manageable and ergonomic design. It also allows us to edit and share the videos and photographs taken, in a very simple way.
Conclusions
One more year, Samsung's flagship device has been going strong. It already did it with the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge, and it couldn't be otherwise with the S8. This terminal is ready to compete with the best smartphones of this year. Your weapon? Implement all the possible functions in a smartphone with a good design, powerful, with unbeatable screens and cameras that promise a lot. But without a doubt, what will make this device a star are all the functions it offers us. Like the wide variety of accessories and the different options of its new customization layer.
Bixby is one of the great novelties . The Samsung assistant we've been waiting for so long is now official. The Korean firm Samsung has wanted to give it a twist, and not only implement an assistant with commands, but a kind of application where we can see and control all the information of our interest. Also, we hope to see improvements to this wizard in future updates.
On the other hand , Samsung Dex also makes the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus climb a notch towards the position of the best smartphone of the year . And although the options are a bit limited, it is a very good option for home productivity.
We also see a small jump to the internet of things with the new Samsung application . Where we can control our different electrical appliances quickly and easily.
Direct to compete with the best mobiles of 2017
If we look at the past, we see a huge evolution between all the models. The Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge marked a before and after for the company, although they needed to polish some details. The Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge came to solve it, becoming the best phone of 2016. Of the characteristics of the Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus we do not expect less. It still needs to be tested in more depth. View as render all configurations, sections and applications of this device on a daily basis . But for the moment, (and in the absence of knowing its official price and that of its accessories) it points to ways to be the smartphone of the year.