Samsung Galaxy S8: Does it Blow?

After the disaster that was the Note 7, with its battery problems, Samsung is prepared to bounce back with their two new flagships: the Samsung Galaxy S8 and the S8 plus. Now that the phones are official, here is everything you need to know about them.

Display

S8 on the left. S8 plus on the right

At glance you are immediately drawn to the phones large screen and lack of bezels; the jaw dropping edge to edge display is where Samsung decided to go all out with this phone. The S8 screen is 5.8 inches corner to corner with a resolution of 2960 x 1440. The S8 plus, on the other hand, is rocking a 6.2 inch screen with the same resolution. Both screens are OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) , meaning colors are much more accurate (blacker blacks and whiter whites) compared to older devices. As seen in the photo, the screen disappears along the edges. Samsung has also incorporated software buttons instead of physical ones pushing the screen both further up and farther down. 

Camera

Camera and fingerprint sensor

The camera on the S8 is the exact same camera found on last years S7. Although sad Samsung decided not to upgrade, last years camera was still rated as one of the best. Users that use their phone as their everyday camera will continue to be pleased with Samsung's top of the line specifications. 

Fingerprint Sensor

A fingerprint sensor in 2017 is essentially a must now as it is much quicker and safer compared to a digit or word passcode. The fingerprint sensor is on the back of the phone unlike the iPhone but this is nothing new as many Android devices have been doing this for a few years. What is different is the position as the sensor is unfortunately located to the right of the camera. Because the S8 and S8 plus are tall phones, the fingerprint sensor can sometimes be out of reach, forcing users with smaller hands to sometimes use two. I'd say this is no deal breaker when purchasing but its something that can't be ignored. 

Software

Bixby and the cards

Like most new Android devices, both the S8 and S8 plus will run the latest version of Android, Android 7.0. However, Samsung does include its own skin on top with its colorful icons and abstract animations. But the biggest feature is actually Bixby, a personal software assistant. What Bixby does is essentially what Google Now does; swipe left to show a row of cards based on your personal lifestyle. The cards can show weather, news, your calendar, box scores, or whatever you like to view throughout your day. It will be quite interesting how users will use this new feature. 

Conclusion

Both phones feel like they belong in 2017 with futuristic like designs. They both have the possibility of being the device we all dream of, however, without scarifying functionality and features. S8 and S8 plus are still razor thin, will the newest chips inside to power them and include a headphone jack as well! It appears that Samsung has hit it out the park once again.