Samsung Introduces To The World The Galaxy S9 and S9+

Source: Samsung Mobile / Samsung Mobile

Since their battery debacle with the Galaxy Note S7, Samsung has been on the right track restoring customers faith in their smartphones. Last years’ Galaxy S8 was well received and regarded as one of the best smartphones on the market. To keep that momentum going, at The Mobile World Congress, Samsung #unpacked the newest model in their flagship smartphone line, the Galaxy S9, and S9+.

The new model doesn’t stray too far from what made the S8 popular with owners as far as the look and feel but it does come with some pretty slick new features. At first glance, the S9 and S9+ look very similar to its predecessor by keeping the attractive sleek slim design, curved sides complimented with a full glass body. The S9 sports a 5.8-inch Quad HD + Curved Super AMOLED, 18.5:99,10 (570ppi) screen while the S9+  6.2-inch Quad HD + Curved Super AMOLED, 18.5:99,10 (529ppi). So a sturdy case is very necessary with your purchase of the new models to preserve your phones sexy at all cost. Unfortunately, even though they look and feel similar you won’t be able to reuse your S8 case for the S9. Another reason your old case will not work is the relocation of the fingerprint scanner below the camera which allows for easier use.

Source: Samsung Mobile / Samsung Mobile

Under the hood, both phones feature a Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 845 processor, 4GB (S9) or 6GB (S9+) with 64GB of storage and expanded memory thanks to microSD card support. The batteries are rest assured not grenades this time around the S9 will have a 3,000mAh while the plus will sport a 3,500mAh battery and will support wired and wireless fast charging. Both models are also IP68 dust and water resistant.

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Photo: Samsung Mobile

Like every new smartphone, the biggest upgrade comes with the camera and the S9 and S9+ camera system sounds very impressive. The S9 features a single lens while the S9+ plus sports a dual camera. Both systems will utilize mechanically adjustable aperture a first for Samsung, which will allow you to switch between f/1.5 to  f/2.4  depending on the lighting conditions. The brighter aperture will allow for more crisper shots in low-light situations and allows in 28 percent more light than the S8’s f/1.7 lens while the f/2.4 will help combat overexposure in your photos while shooting in bright conditions.

Source: Samsung Mobile / Samsung Mobile

The new camera system also sports a 12-megapixel camera sensor and second-generation dual-pixel autofocus that promises to deliver more reliable and quicker focusing. To combat noise from showing up in your pictures taken in low-light situations improved multi-frame noise reduction claims to improve low-light performance by 30 percent and helps provide “super slo-mo” recording at an amazing 960 frames per second at 720p resolution. The S9+ camera gets some slight tweaks over the S9’s even though it does not have the variable aperture feature. Its camera system does have a f/2.4 lens with a telephoto capability and “Live Focus” mode which Samsung’s answer to Apple’s Portrait Mode.

AR (Augmented Reality) is all the rage now and Samsung will also be releasing their own animated emojis. Integrated into the camera is AR Emoji their rival to Apple’s Animoji feature. Instead of talking unicorns and other animals, it will allow you to create a 3D character with your features by capturing an image of your face, and using 100 points. The app will then create 18 animated gif stickers that will be available in the keyboard and can be used in messaging apps.You will also be able to customize your emoji’s appearance with new outfits, glasses, and hairstyles.

Source: Samsung Mobile / Samsung Mobile

The new phones will also have an updated Bixby app that boasts some pretty impressive camera features. By just pointing your camera at food items it will estimate how many calories for you and also provide a faster real-time translation. Samsung also partnered up with companies such as Sephora and Cover Girl to allow ladies to actually try makeup products on the phone and if they like them purchase them through the app. Sam’s Club and Nordstrom will also allow you to purchase items through the app.

Source: Samsung Mobile / Samsung Mobile

Now for the million dollar question, how will they cost? The S9 and S9+ will be available unlocked for $719.99 and $839.99. All major US phone carries will carry both models and cost will range from $720 and $840 to $800 and $930. Different payment plans will be available as well. Samsung’s newest toy will be available for pre-order March 2nd and arrives on shelves March 16th.

Checkout the video of the S9 and S9+ in action below and let us know if you plan on buying one or making the switch in the comments below.