The time has finally come to get your hands on the newest smartphones in the Samsung Galaxy lineup, and the new Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ are set to be another hit for Samsung. People have been lapping up rumors and leaks about the newest devices for months now, but that early information didn’t do these newest Galaxy phones justice. While at first glance it may seem that Samsung copied Apple’s upgrade protocol - releasing newer models of the iPhones that are nearly identical in design - that couldn’t be further from the truth. Samsung has instead released a truly amazing new lineup of Galaxy phones, though the new phones do look strikingly like last year’s S8 and S8+. While there may be minor similarities, however, there are marked differences that are sure bring a whole new level of function and enjoyment to consumers. Exciting new features for the Galaxy S9 and S9+ include faster processing speeds, more RAM, significant upgrades to the cameras, photo and video capabilities, fun new graphics technology and more. Excited yet? Keep reading to learn more about what you can expect from the new Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ smartphones!
Top Features & Upgrades
- Camera, Photo & Video
- Internal Upgrades & Features
- Appearance Upgrades & Features
Camera, Photo & Video
The most exciting and anticipated Samsung Galaxy S9 upgrade over last year’s models is by far the new camera. There is no other smartphone on the market now that can compare when it comes to the camera and associated features on the Galaxy S9 and S9+. Dubbed the “Super Speed Dual Pixel,” camera, the new Samsung S9 camera technology is far sharper and faster than the tech used on any previous Galaxy models, including the Note. For starters, the Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ now have dual apertures. In low light, the aperture switches between between F1.5 - F2.5 to let in as much available light as possible, which means users can expect a dramatic improvement in their low-light photography. In addition, multi-processed images now have instant HDR images. Another improvement Samsung made is with video on the S9 and S9+, including the new “Super Slow-mo” feature. Slow motion on the new models can be captured with frame rates as high as 960 FPS at 720p HD, offering incredible smoothness and clarity in super slow motion videos.
Highlights:
- Dual aperture settings have been added for the best photo capabilities of any smartphone on the market
- Multi-processed images now have instant HDR images
- Super Slo-mo video capability allows for frame rates as high as 960 FPS at 720p HD
Internal Upgrades & Features
Much attention has been given to internal upgrades on the S9 and S9+, as well. While the screen sizes remain the same as on previous models, they are now 15 percent brighter than before. This is thanks to the faster Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 SDM85 processor in both the Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+. This means not only a brighter screen, but also significantly faster processing speeds, and with 4GB of RAM, multitasking is a breeze. You can now also add up to 400 GB of storage to your Galaxy S9 or S9+, as well. While all of these internal changes are awesome, the Samsung designers didn’t forget about adding a few fun new features to the Galaxy S9 and S9+. The S9 and S9+ also now have the AR Emoji, which allows users to take selfies and make emojis with their likenesses, creating little animations or recordings with their personalized emojis. There are a number of other characters that users can choose that mimic facial expressions and mouth movements, too.
Highlights:
- Screen is now 15 percent brighter, thanks to a Snapdragon 845 SDM85 processor
- Faster processor paired with 4GB of RAM makes multitasking a breeze
- Users can now add up to 400 GB of additional storage
Appearance Upgrades & Features
The Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ is simply a sleeker, more refined phone, though there have not been many noticable changes to the outside. The 5.8” screen of the Galaxy S9 and the 6.2” screen of the S9+ really stand out thanks to smaller bezels. In addition, Samsung made both phones more durable with stronger aluminum housing and glass that is 20 percent thicker. The S9 and the S9+ are both shorter, narrower, and just a bit thicker than previous models. To the relief of many S8 and S8+ users, the fingerprint sensor has been repositioned so that it is easier and more convenient to reach, which is especially good news for people with smaller hands.
Highlights:
- Sleeker, more refined external body with smaller bezels than previous models
- The S9 and S9+ are now more durable, thanks to stronger aluminum housing and 20 percent thicker glass
- Fingerprint scanner has been repositioned for easier, more comfortable access
Conclusion
While there are amazing Samsung Galaxy S9 features, there’s also some comfort in what has remained the same. Storage runs all the way up to 400 GB, and there’s plenty of RAM at 4GB. The 3.5mm headphone jack is the same, as is the basic button locations, battery size, screen resolution, and wireless charging capabilities. These - with the newly added technology - are qualities that simply make the Galaxy S9 and S9+ the phone to beat. The Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ are available for pre-order on March 2nd, and will be officially released March 16th. The Galaxy S9 retails for $720, while the S9+ retails for $890. Pricing is expected to vary slightly by carrier, and Samsung will sell unlocked models with financing options available.