SamsThe Samsung Galaxy Note 8 has been announced and includes a dual-lens camera, a first for the Korean electronics giant.
The launch comes at an important time for Samsung after the Note 7 disaster which cost the company an estimated $17 billion. A revised version known as the Galaxy Note Fan Edition was released in July 2017, using refurbished Note 7 models.
The device features a 6.3-inch 1440p AMOLED infinity display with an 18.5:9 aspect ratio, the same as the S8. It incorporates a similar glass design with metal trim around the edges, although the corners are more square. The headphone jack has again been retained, while connectivity is USB-C. The S-Pen makes a return and is largely similar to the one found on the Note 7. It also retains waterproof status, achieving IP68 certification.
Inside is a Samsung Exynos 8895 processor (Snapdragon 835 in USA and China) and 6GB RAM. Internal memory starts from 64GB, with the highest model having 256GB. A microSD slot allows further expansion up to a further 256GB. It also includes the latest Bluetooth 5.0 technology, allowing higher bandwidths and the ability to connect multiple wireless headphones to the same device.
The Galaxy Note 8 marks the first Samsung handset to ship with a dual-lens camera, following in the footsteps of Apple, Huawei and LG. It features a 12 megapixel camera with phase detection autofocus and optical image stabilisation; the second sensor is used to create depth effects and optically zoom 2x. The front camera is 8 megapixels and sits alongside an iris scanner which can be used to unlock the device hands-free.
The battery has been a major talking point with the Galaxy Note 8 and it seems that Samsung has decided to play it safe. The capacity is a frugal 3,300mAh, which is less than the smaller S8+. It’s clear that the company is striving for safety over usage here. Samsung has said that the Galaxy Note 8 will employ the same three stage battery check system used when manufacturing the S8 cells. This was introduced shortly after the disaster which overshadowed the Note 7.
Android Nougat 7.1.1 will ship at launch on the Samsung Galaxy Note 8. The device will be updated to Oreo, though the exact date is yet to be confirmed. It will also come with the company’s own virtual assistant, Bixby. It can be activated via voice control or using the dedicated button on the side.
The Samsung Galaxy Note 8 will cost £869 in the UK, making it one of the most expensive Android handsets currently available. It will come in four colours: blue, gold, black and silver.
