To kickstart the year 2018, Samsung Electronics Singapore debuted their latest smartphones in the Galaxy A series – the Galaxy A8(2018) and the Galaxy A8+(2018). Samsung prided their A-series as a mid-range smartphones for the young.
So how far has Samsung achieved in attracting the young to switch from iPhones to their Galaxy Series? Let’s take a closer look of the Galaxy A8 and A8+.
Enhanced Front Camera Capabilities – Dual Front Camera with Live Focus and Face-Unlock Features
The new Galaxy A8(2018) and the Galaxy A8+(2018) feature a new 16MP + 8MP F1.9 Dual Front Camera in addition to an impressive 16MP rear camera, allowing users to capture important moments and memories at any time and location. As the Dual Front Camera is made up of two separate cameras, users have the flexibility in choosing the type of selfies to take – from close-ups with the background, to portrait shots with a clear and crisp background. With the advanced Live Focus feature, users can easily create and adjust the bokeh effect on the smartphones before or after taking a picture.
Also fitted with facial recognition security features, consumers can opt for a quick and hassle-free way to unlock their Galaxy A8(2018) or Galaxy A8+(2018) with just a look. By simply scanning your face with the front camera and enabling the facial recognition feature under the security settings, consumers are ready to unlock their phone in a quick and effortless manner.
Though I like the idea of putting 2 cameras on the front, I still find it strange that they didn’t do it like-wise for the back.
Galaxy S8’s and Note 8’s Infinity Display on Galaxy A8
For the first time on the Galaxy A, Samsung brings in the Infinity Display which is the key feature of their Samsung’s premium Galaxy S8 and Note 8. The Galaxy A8 and A8+ comes in 5.6-inch and 6.0-inch screen size respectively. With an 18.5:9 display ratio that goes beyond the bezel, the device provides users with the ultimate cinematic experience. The smartphone screen is also supported with a premium metal frame and a curved glass on the back and front, providing users an ergonomic and comfortable grip when using the sleek and stylish device.
Water Resistance – IP68 – Certified, Separated Dual Sim Card Slot and MircoSD card slot
Continued from the previous Galaxy A series, the new Galaxy A8(2018) and A8+(2018) are equipped with IP68-certified water and dust resistant capabilities, allowing them to withstand elements including rain, sweat, sand and dust.
One thing to note, the Galaxy A8(2018) and Galaxy A8+ (2018) supports Dual Sim and microSD cards expandable storage upto 256GB and they have the 2 slots separated from one another. Unlike their previous Galaxy S series which use a hybrid microSD and Sim card slot, you could use both Sim cards and microSD simultaneously.
Supports Samsung Pay and Gear VR models
Both the Galaxy A8(2018) and A8+(2018) are also the first in the Galaxy A line-up to support most of their Gear VR models.
The Galaxy A8 and A8+ are equipped with Samsung Pay where users can make safe and secure mobile payments almost anywhere. Simply swipe up to bring up the last transacted credit or debit card, scan your fingerprint or key in your PIN and make payment.
Local Pricing and Availability
The Galaxy A8(2018) and A8+(2018) will be available from 27 January 2017 at a recommended retail price of $648 and $798 respectively, including GST. Available in Gold and Black, the devices will be available at all local telecommunication operators, selected consumer electronic stores, authorised mobile retailers, Samsung Experience Stores and selected online marketplace.
In celebration of the revamping of the Samsung Electronics Store at VivoCity, customers who purchase any Galaxy smartphone or tablet at a recommended retail price of $400 and above will receive a $30 Mapletree voucher at the point of purchase. Customers who purchase a Galaxy Note8, S8+, S8 or Tab S3 will receive a $50 Mapletree voucher instead. This promotion will commence from 18 January 2018 on a while stocks last basis.
Also published on Medium.