Samsung

Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2017

Galaxy S8 and S8+

Samsung has announced the Galaxy S8 and S8+. The phones feature a bezel-less design with curved edges that Samsung calls the “Infinity Display.” The device features an HDR display and a pressure-sensitive home button located under the screen. It also includes an 8-megapixel front-facing camera.

For security, the phone utilizes biometric factors such as iris scanning, face recognition, and a fingerprint sensor located on the back of the device. Users can also use traditional passwords, though pattern locking is not included.

Samsung Health

The “Ask an Expert” feature connects you directly with a doctor through the app.

The Bixby Digital Assistant

Bixby is a digital assistant that understands context. You trigger it with a dedicated button on the side of the phone. Bixby is also integrated into the camera; if you see something you want to buy, it can identify the item and show you where to purchase it. Bixby also utilizes a card system similar to Google Now.

Samsung Connect allows you to control your smart home devices right from Bixby. To support this ecosystem, Samsung is releasing the Samsung Connect Home, a smart router similar to Eero or Google Wifi.

Specifications and Availability

The S8 features a 5.8-inch display, while the S8+ is 6.2 inches. Both models come in black, grey, blue, silver, and gold. The S8 starts at $720, and the Plus starts at $840. Pre-orders start tomorrow, and the phones will be released on April 21st.

Accessories

Gear VR

Samsung is releasing a new motion controller. Content updates include a Ghost in the Shell experience from Paramount, Live Nation concerts, a UFC event, and VR content from BuzzFeed.

Gear 360

The new Gear 360 shoots in 4K, supports live streaming, and includes a social app.

DeX

DeX is similar to Windows Continuum; it allows you to use the phone in a dock to project a desktop interface onto a monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

Resources