The world’s largest smartphone manufacturer Samsung, unveiled their latest phone offering, the Galaxy S III on May 4 to much fanfare and anticipation. The latest device is large (4.8 inch HD screen) and powerful (dual core processor) featuring rounded edges that are a slight departure from Samsung’s previous smartphones. Akin to its brethren, the S III will run on Google’s Android platform, in this case version 4.0. Other features include but are not limited to: an 8 megapixel rear camera, 1.9 megapixel front-facing camera (both of which can shoot HD video) along with voice activated command known as S Voice.
Based on all accounts, the device is powerful, ergonomic and intuitive, which is directly in line with what the company aspired for. The device has been cited as “inspired by nature” with the goal of being highly intuitive and effortless via a plethora of face, voice and motion detection features. This vision can be seen in many of the products features including the ability to call someone directly from a text message conversation with said individual simply by placing the phone to your ear while in the conversation screen. Another interesting feature is accessing the camera from the locked screen which can be done by placing a finger on the screen and rotating the phone 90 degrees.
There is little doubt that the S III is a direct shot at Apple’s iPhone, and another wrinkle in the two companies’ battle for Smartphone supremacy. Seeing as both of the firms now account for 99% of the Smartphone industry’s profits as reported by Canaccord Genuity analyst Mike Walkley, it will be interesting to see how the 2012 year plays out for both parties. Although Apple’s soon to be released iPhone 5 is believed to be the next benchmark for all Smartphones, Samsung’s rapid rise as well as their lucrative sponsorship contract with the upcoming Summer Olympics, the battle between the two is far from over.