Mikael Krekula, a professional wilderness guide based in Kiruna, Sweden, was out on the frozen Kalix River testing sonar equipment when his Galaxy S23 Ultra slipped from his glove and fell into an ice fishing hole. The device plunged into the freezing water, settling roughly three meters below the surface.

“At that moment, I felt like I had donated my entire digital life to the river — photos, ID, credit cards and all my apps gone in an instant,” Mikael said. “It wasn’t just a phone to me. It was my work companion, essential in everything I do.”

Despite the extreme conditions, Mikael decided to attempt a recovery. Over the course of five hours, he drilled eight surrounding ice holes to get a better angle to the phone and used a series of improvised tools — birch branches, a shovel and a plastic bag on a stick — to try and reach the device.

“I could see my phone through the ice. It wasn’t lost completely — just barely out of reach,” he explained. “Eventually, I drove home, grabbed a summer fishing net, tied the net to a birch rod and came back — and within five minutes, it was in my hands.”

Remarkably, the Galaxy S23 Ultra powered on immediately, displaying three missed calls. There was no need for a reboot or drying procedures.

“We let it sit overnight in the cabin just to be safe, but the next day it was still working perfectly,” Mikael added. “And it continues to function just like it did before the incident.”

Technology That Keeps Up With the Wild

As a wilderness guide leading tours across the Arctic Circle, Mikael relies heavily on mobile technology. His Galaxy S23 Ultra supports navigation, weather updates, language translation, photography, and communication — often in sub-zero temperatures and remote locations.

“When you’re guiding guests under the northern lights or across frozen terrain, your tech can’t fail,” he said. “The Galaxy S23 Ultra also delivers outstanding night photography, which is essential for capturing this region’s unique light conditions.”

Mikael now includes a hand net in his winter packing list — and grips his phone more tightly. “This was definitely a learning experience,” he remarked. “But it also showed me that the phone can handle a lot more than I expected.”

Real-World Durability, Backed by Advanced Engineering

The Galaxy S23 Ultra is rated IP68,¹ offering water resistance in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for 30 minutes, as well as protection against dust, dirt and sand. The circumstances surrounding Mikael’s device exceeded these rated conditions, illustrating the durability Samsung builds into its flagship devices.

Today, Mikael continues to guide guests across Sweden’s far north with his Galaxy S23 Ultra close at hand. From urban jungles to frozen wilderness, the Galaxy S series are built to last wherever they are and Mikael’s experience is just the latest proof of that legacy in action — tested by the Arctic, trusted by the user and tougher than the Kalix River.

To learn more about Mikael’s guided wilderness experiences, visit www.ecotours68n.se. For more information about the Galaxy S23 Ultra, visit www.samsung.com.

¹ The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra has an IP68 rating based on laboratory test conditions. Water resistance is effective in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. It is not suitable for beach or pool use. Water or dust damage is not covered by warranty. Performance beyond rated conditions may vary and is not guaranteed.

Samsung has been leading the industry by introducing hardware (HW) and software (SW) that break the existing mold every year for the past 12 years since the unveiling of the first Galaxy S device in 2010. Some of the most game-changing so far include a large-screen smartphone with excellent immersion; a smartphone-stylus combination that enhanced productivity and creativity; and the world’s first dual-pixel camera technology. In addition, the Galaxy Note series, Galaxy tablet series and various wearable devices including Galaxy Watch and Galaxy Buds have contributed to the wider Galaxy ecosystem that has so transformed user’s lifestyles.

Ahead of the Galaxy Unpacked event set for February 10, Samsung Newsroom is providing a look back at the technological legacy of the Galaxy series. Read on to learn more about the 10 innovative Galaxy smartphone technologies that have set new standards and transformed the way we live our lives.

#1. 2010
The AMOLED Display: Bigger Is Better

One of the major benefits of a smartphone is that it allows users to enjoy content on a large screen with clear picture quality that sits right in the palm of their hand. Samsung kicked off the trend of the large screen era in the smartphone industry with the introduction of their AMOLED display. This display, developed using Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode (AMOLED) technology, is characterized by its clear picture quality, self-luminescence and larger screen size.

The Samsung Galaxy S was the world’s first smartphone to be launched with a Super AMOLED display, an ultra-thin screen that consumes less power and provides crisper and more vivid picture quality. With the introduction of the Galaxy S in 2010, users’ interest became piqued in obtaining bigger screens — such as the 4- to 5-inch screens of the AMOLED display compared to the conventional 3-inches on other phones — on which to fully immerse themselves in their favorite content.

Samsung has continued to take its AMOLED technology to the next level by unveiling devices with more powerful and more advanced screens, such as the Galaxy S10, the world’s first mobile device with a High Dynamic Range10+ (HDR10+) supported Dynamic AMOLED display, and the Galaxy S21 series, which features a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with an automatic refresh rate of up to 120Hz based on the content type. Samsung’s innovative technology has enabled silky-smooth scrolling and uninterrupted viewing experiences, even on larger screens.

#2. 2011
The Galaxy Note and S Pen: Adding Analog Touch to Digital Devices

As of 2011, it became no longer necessary to keep notebooks and writing instruments in our bags at all times. With the introduction of the Galaxy Note equipped with S Pen, it is now possible to save and share everything from memos to drawings right on our smartphone’s screen. At that time, the Galaxy Note was launched with an S Pen that supported 256 levels of pressure onto the device’s large screen. Since then, both the Note and the S Pen have become inseparable, and as the series has developed, both have evolved significantly.

For example, Samsung introduced Air Command for the Galaxy Note 3 to give users easy access to signature S Pen features when hovering their S Pen over the screen. The company also then incorporated Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology into the Galaxy Note 9 S Pen so that its stylus pen could also function as a remote control. For the Galaxy Note 10, the addition of Air Action features enabled users to remotely control their device when switching camera modes or zooming in or out, a marked change from previous models which only permitted users to take photos from a distance. In line with this innovative spirit, Samsung introduced the artificial intelligence (AI)-powered S Pen for the Galaxy Note 20 in order to provide users with a more delicate and sophisticated drawing experience, and as of last year, the innovative S Pen is now available on devices such as the Galaxy S21 Ultra and Galaxy Z Fold3 to expand its compatibility.

#3. 2013
Samsung Knox: Your Trusted Mobile Bodyguard

We are now living in the era where most of our daily tasks and experiences can be undertaken all with a singular smartphone, meaning that the importance of security cannot be overemphasized. Samsung Knox has become a reliable shield for users concerned about information leakage or virus penetration.

Samsung Knox, installed on Galaxy devices since the Galaxy Note 3 in 2013, protects devices on a step-by-step basis from the chipset to the operating system (OS) and application level, while also blocking hacking and unauthorized access. In addition, thanks to its encrypted container space, a user’s personal and business data can be separated and managed safely.

In 2021, the company launched Samsung Knox Vault with the Galaxy S21 in order to thoroughly ensure the protection of ever-growing amounts of data. In addition to offering the industry’s highest level of security chipset (eSE, or embedded Secure Element) and a secure processor that prevents HW-level attacks, Samsung Knox Vault features a tamper-resistant security memory to protect a user’s various passwords and biometric information.

#4. 2014
Superb IP Rating: Ultimate Protection From Dust and Water

In the early 2010s, if you accidentally dropped your smartphone while using it in water, nothing but despair awaited you. To mitigate this, Samsung expanded the horizon of smartphone experiences by applying waterproof and dustproof functions to the Galaxy S5 for the first time in 2014.

From the Galaxy S7 in 2017 onwards, IP68,¹ the highest waterproof and dustproof rating, has been applied to Galaxy devices in order to strengthen their performance. The IP68 rating is given to devices after testing in fresh water at a depth of 1.5m for 30 minutes. Galaxy users are now able to use their smartphones with peace of mind thanks to strong waterproof and dustproof technologies.

#5. 2015
Samsung Pay: A Mobile Wallet in Your Pocket

It is no exaggeration to say that, after 2015, the trend of going ‘wallet-less’ saw a surge in increase. At this time, Samsung introduced Samsung Pay, a mobile payment service that replaces the cash and credit cards in a user’s wallet. Since this service was first introduced on the Galaxy S6 in 2015, it has established itself as a core representational service of the Galaxy smartphone.

When using public transportation, as well as when out shopping, users need just touch their smartphone instead of having to get out their wallet to pay. These days, leaving the house without a wallet has become a normal habit.

#6. 2016
Advanced Camera Technology: The World’s First Dual Pixel Sensor

Smartphone camera technologies are advancing day by day, to the extent at which if you have a smartphone, you’re able to capture pictures and videos comparable to that of professionals.

In 2016, Samsung raised the smartphone camera function to a new level by installing the industry’s first dual pixel in the Galaxy S7. At that time, the dual pixel was an image sensor only seen in high-end digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras. By increasing the amount of light received by both the front and rear cameras, the Galaxy S7 was able to focus quickly and accurately, as well as take optimal photos in dark environments.

Samsung then combined an Ultra-Wide angle lens and intelligent SW in the Galaxy S10 to help users take even sharper pictures. The Galaxy S20 features a remarkable four quad cameras, raising the level of camera functionality once again. In particular, the optical zoom performance has been greatly improved; Galaxy S20 Ultra users can harness the Space Zoom function to zoom in up to 100 times, allowing them to take clear pictures of the night sky.

#7. 2018
One UI: Making My Own Galaxy

One UI is an interface that supports the unique user experience of Samsung Galaxy, and was first introduced in November 2018.

By dividing the viewing area and the touching area, the layout of One UI allows users to comfortably perform all operations with just one hand, and all necessary essential functions are included concisely on-screen so that everyone and anyone is able to use it easily. One UI is also characterized by a unified user experience as it has been applied consistently to devices across the Galaxy ecosystem, including smartphones, tablets and wearables.

One UI 4, updated last year, harnesses a completely different color palette with which to decorate a device’s home screen, icons, notifications and wallpapers in your own style. In addition, One UI 4 features strengthened security features, such as allowing users to easily select what to share and what to keep private in order to keep up with users who increasingly value their individuality and their privacy.

#8. 2019
Galaxy Z Series: The Dawn of the Era of Foldable Smartphones

In 2019, Samsung pioneered the field of foldable smartphones by unveiling the world’s first Galaxy Z Fold, equipped with a 7.3-inch Infinity Flex Display.

Samsung’s newly developed hinge technology makes it possible to open and close the smartphone as smoothly as one opens a book, and offers users secure, long-lasting flexibility that passed a test to withstand 200,000 folds. In 2020, the company’s foldable lineup was expanding to include the Galaxy Z Flip, which features a compact design as the screen unfolds vertically.

Samsung not only pioneered a new form factor, but also new usability options through such functions as Flex mode, which allows for more usage scenarios by fixing the hinge at a specific angle, and Multi-Active Window, which can open and run apps at the same time with applications optimized for the foldable screen for a split screen view.

Last year, Samsung expanded their foldable lineup with the Galaxy Z Fold3, which saw the inclusion of an S Pen and waterproof and dustproof technology, and the colorful, pastel-toned Galaxy Z Flip3 Bespoke Edition, leading the era of foldable popularization.

#9. 2021
An AI-Powered Eraser: Removing Unwanted Objects From Photos

As part of Samsung’s mission to expand the application of innovative AI technologies to all smartphones, the company introduced the Object Eraser feature that lets you remove any unwanted objects in your photos with just a touch.

The Object Eraser function, first introduced in the Galaxy S21 in 2021, is a photo editing tool that harnesses artificial intelligence. Simply by touching the object you want to remove from a photo and tapping the ‘object erase’ button, the object is deleted without the need for a separate editing program. Currently, this function is available on smartphones with One UI 3.1 or higher, such as the Galaxy S20 and Galaxy Z Fold3.

Samsung first applied its AI-powered interface, Bixby, to the Galaxy S8 in 2017, and now users can control their major Galaxy devices using only their voice. In addition, Samsung has been incorporating AI technologies into its device OS, battery and camera in order to improve performance and convenience.

#10. 2021
Galaxy for the Planet: For a Sustainable Future

Samsung is fully committed to minimizing the environmental impact of its products throughout the entire lifecycle of its smartphones, from the design to the production stage through to their usage and disposal, in order to ensure that Galaxy smartphones contribute to greater environmental sustainability. Under the sustainability vision of its Mobile eXperience (MX) Business, “Galaxy for the Planet,” Samsung is consistently working to achieve a circular economy by reusing and recycling resources in order to build a better Galaxy ecosystem.

One such effort towards sustainability is a reduction of plastic usage in smartphone packaging. The percentage of plastics used in the Galaxy S21 packaging accounts for a mere 4 percent of the total weight, cutting down the waste generated per packaging unit by 49 percent as compared with that of the Galaxy S7. In addition, the Galaxy S21 packaging contains only 58 percent of the paper used in that of the Galaxy S7, helping save some 44,802 trees a year. Samsung plans to exclude plastic materials in its product packaging and apply recycled materials to all of its products in the MX division by 2025.

The products set to be unveiled at Galaxy Unpacked 2022 are drawing attention thanks to the revelation that they have been designed using eco-conscious materials recycled from marine waste. Samsung has succeeded in transforming discarded fishing nets, a major contributor to marine pollution, into a material with which to produce smart devices, and the company plans to apply this material to all its products in the future.

¹ IP (Degree of Ingress Protection, IP Code) is a product-related protection technology standard established by the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) and is applied to various IT products and industrial devices. IP68 is the highest rating for dust and water resistance. Ip68 has a waterproof function that can withstand 1.5m of clear water for 30 minutes, but it is recommended that the device be washed off immediately after contact with water and then dried.

Harnessing the Galaxy S10 to Get to Safety

In June of this year, Australian couple Jessica and Lindsay were enjoying a trip out on their family boat 38km off the coast of Cairns, Queensland, an area most famous for its iconic Great Barrier Reef, when their boat’s motor became entangled with the anchor rope and led to them getting swept up by the waves. With the boat then overturning, the stranded couple were tipped into the water with no time to retrieve their lifejackets or their Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB), a device used to alert rescue services in emergencies.

The couple managed to remain afloat by grabbing hold of the anchor float after the boat overturned – but their ordeal was far from over as they had concerns about what marine wildlife might be nearby given that they had caught a six-foot shark right before capsizing. While floating overturned and in the water, the stern (rear) of the boat was weighed down as the anchor line was wrapped around the motor while it faced the sea swell.

However, Jessica was able to use her Galaxy S10 to contact the emergency services via phone and text after capsizing.

After having spoken with the local Chief of Police, she shared screenshots of their location with the rescue team using the Galaxy S10’s GPS and Google Maps functions. This information then helped guide the helicopter and boat emergency teams dispatched to find them.

Able to maintain contact with the authorities as they patrolled the ocean to find them, Jessica was also able to draw the attention of the rescue boat upon its arrival thanks to her Galaxy S10’s flashlight – the couple had spent several hours in the water and night had since fallen.

Jessica and Lindsay’s experience is a sobering reminder about the importance of water safety and conduct, and furthermore, it is also a unique example of the power and endurance of Galaxy smartphones, even in unusual or difficult situations; Jessica’s Galaxy S10 is still functioning as normal.^*

^*The Samsung Galaxy S10 has an IP68 rating, meaning that it has been tested to withstand submersion in fresh water for up to 30 minutes up to a depth of 1.5m. If the product is submerged in water other than fresh water, it is recommended that the device be immediately rinsed with fresh water and dried with a soft cloth. Samsung recommends reviewing the user manual for care instructions.

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Take a look at the infographic below for an in-depth look at 10 of the Galaxy range’s leading innovations that have redefined the smartphone experience over the past 10 years.

1. AMOLED Displays

First featured on: the Galaxy S (2010)

Samsung’s introduction of the first smartphone with a Super AMOLED display laid the groundwork for AMOLED technology to become the industry standard, and ultimately helped pave the way for the era of large-screen smartphones.

The Galaxy S10’s Dynamic AMOLED display takes the immersive viewing experiences that Samsung devices are known for to the next level, combining exceptional color accuracy (100 percent color volume in the DCI-P3 color range) with a peak luminance of 1,200 nits, and without requiring a filter or compromising picture quality, blue light reduction provides maximized eye comfort.

Those stellar specs, along with the display’s groundbreaking support for HDR10+, a next-generation open standard for HDR video, allow Samsung’s newest smartphones to offer a level of picture quality that’s so spectacular, you have to see it to believe it.

2. The S Pen

First featured on: the Galaxy Note (2011)

Since its launch, Samsung’s category-defining Galaxy Note line has introduced a variety of intuitive tools designed to help users maximize their productivity. Chief among these is the devices’ signature stylus: the S Pen.

Each new addition to the Note family adds convenient capabilities to this handy feature; for example, the S Pen that debuted with Note devices starting with the Galaxy Note7 harnesses electromagnetic resonance (EMR) technology, keeping the S Pen and its device connected without relying on static electricity – meaning the functionality of the S Pen is unaffected by water.

Furthermore, while the Galaxy Note3’s S Pen was 1.6mm in diameter, the S Pen of last year’s Galaxy Note9 is just 0.7mm in diameter, and while the debut Galaxy Note’s S Pen supported a pressure level of 256, the Galaxy Note9’s S Pen supports a pressure level of 4096, providing users with a natural writing experience just like that of a real pen.

The S Pen equipping the Galaxy Note9 is also the most versatile yet, thanks to its Bluetooth Low-Energy (BLE) support, customizable clicks, and deeper integration with fan-favorite Note features.

3. Samsung Knox

First featured on: the Galaxy Note3 (2013)

Built into the company’s smartphones, tablets and wearables at the manufacturing stage, Samsung’s comprehensive security platform, Samsung Knox, offers Galaxy device users a simple and secure environment for storing and managing sensitive data.

Since its introduction, Samsung Knox has helped countless Galaxy users safeguard apps, photos and more from malware, viruses and other malicious threats. Its multi-layered security technology runs through each and every component of a device, from its chipset to its OS through to its applications. Secured by Knox, all your data is securely encrypted and hosted, completely isolated, on a secure place on device to keep your data private.

IT developers and administrators have been driving the security leadership agenda in the mobile industry, and today, Samsung continues to strengthen and enrich Samsung Knox with updates and enhancements that offer businesses and individuals greater security, and greater peace of mind.

4. Biometric Authentication

First featured on: the Galaxy S5 (2014)

Speaking of stalwart security, over the last ten years, Samsung has continuously enhanced its Galaxy lineup with the latest advancements in biometric technologies in order to offer users more tools to protect their devices and personal data.

The Galaxy S5 and Galaxy Note4 were the first devices in the series to offer biometric security in the form of home button-embedded fingerprint scanners. It wasn’t long before Samsung expanded its biometric authentication arsenal with iris and facial scanning respectively.

The Galaxy S10 line takes biometric convenience a step further with an Ultrasonic Fingerprint Scanner that’s incorporated into the display, and utilizes ultrasonic waves to recognize the real, 3D contours of a user’s physical fingerprint, more secure than just 2D image recognition.

5. IP68 Dust and Water Resistance

First featured on: the Galaxy S5 (2014)

The Galaxy S5 was the first device in the Galaxy series to achieve an international standard rating of IP67 for dust and water resistance. The Galaxy S7 then achieved an IP68² rating, the highest possible in this certification, meaning that Galaxy users can rest assured that their smartphones are built to stand up to the odd splash, spill or storm.

Prior to this technology, devices stood higher risks of hardware erosion and suffering from electrical shorts when up against adverse conditions. However, Samsung’s technology means that people can use their devices more safely, even in wet environments.

This premium durability standard has now become a staple of Galaxy flagship devices. It’s all part of Samsung’s commitment to ensuring that its devices will be there for users whenever they need them.

6. Wireless Charging

First featured on: the Galaxy S6 (2015)

Samsung has been at the forefront of wireless charging innovation since the technology’s beginnings, introducing advancements that have helped usher in an era in which charging your phone is as simple as placing it on a pad.

After introducing built-in wireless charging support to the Galaxy lineup with the Galaxy S6, Samsung took the technology to new heights with the introduction of Wireless PowerShare on the Galaxy S10, giving users the power to share their device’s impressive battery capacity supported by the Galaxy S10’s Fast Wireless Charging 2.0. Now, the Galaxy series’ latest additions are not only capable of charging wirelessly, but they’re also capable of wirelessly charging other devices, including Qi-certified¹ smartphones and wearables.

7. Samsung Pay

First featured on: the Galaxy S6 (2015)

Simple, secure, and available almost anywhere, Samsung Pay has quickly established itself as a mobile payment platform that consumers can trust.

First introduced with the Galaxy S6, Samsung Pay supports seamless payments via both near field communication (NFC) and magnetic secure transmission (MST). Samsung Pay uses three levels of security to ensure and enable secure payments: biometric authentication through fingerprint or iris recognition, tokenization³ and Samsung Knox, Samsung’s defense-grade mobile security platform.

Samsung Pay is available across six continents, with more markets joining the fold each year – and the service’s rapid growth and expansion are revolutionizing the mobile payment landscape. As of August 2018, Samsung Pay has surpassed 1.3 billion transactions globally available in 24 markets.

8. The Infinity Display

First featured on: the Galaxy S8 (2017)

Samsung’s introduction of the Infinity Display in 2017 marked the beginning of a bold new chapter in screen design, following the legacy of the increased screen real estate and better grip experience provided by the world’s first curved display, Edge, that debuted on the Galaxy Note edge.

Featuring a bezel-less, dual-edge design that elegantly spills over the edges of the phone, the Infinity Display pushes the boundaries of immersion, enabling users to see and do more than ever before. Seamless and sleek, the display is a beauty to behold – which makes it the perfect canvas for the likewise stunning viewing experiences that Galaxy devices are known for.

Since its introduction on the Galaxy S8, the Infinity Display has become a signature feature of Samsung’s flagship phones. Each year, the company introduces enhancements that make the display even more engrossing and maximizes screen real estate for users to enjoy. The Infinity-O Display available on the Galaxy S10 range is the series’ most immersive, advanced and revolutionary yet.

9. Bixby

First featured on: the Galaxy S8 (2017)

Introduced alongside the Galaxy S8, Samsung’s scalable AI platform, Bixby, was created to offer users a more personal, intelligent and intuitive AI assistant.

Samsung continuously enhances its AI platform with ever-more convenient capabilities designed to help users save time and simplify their day. Users also now have access to Bixby Marketplace, a new ecosystem resource for third-party services – known as ‘capsules’ – that are custom-fit for use with Bixby and allow users to do more of what they need with the assistance of Bixby.

10. Pro-grade Camera (Dual Aperture)

First featured on: the Galaxy S9 (2018)

Smartphone users have come to expect groundbreaking innovations from the Galaxy series – especially when it comes to the devices’ cameras. The Dual Aperture technology included in the series’ recent flagships is one such example of pioneering camera innovation.

Samsung officially debuted the technology on the Galaxy S9, making the device the first smartphone to feature a Dual Aperture camera. In a nutshell, the technology enables the camera to automatically adjust to various lighting conditions just as the human eye would. It does this by combining an F1.5 aperture lens with an F2.4. The ability to let in more light when it’s dark and less when it’s bright enables the camera to minimize visual distortion and ensures that photos are crisp and clear anytime, anywhere.

The Galaxy S10’s camera comes with intelligent software and professional lenses so that users can capture exactly what they see, as they see it, thanks to an unprecedented Ultra Wide 123° panoramic field of view among other innovations that allow users to capture pro-grade photos and videos.

¹ Qi is an open interface standard for wireless charging that was created by the Wireless Power Consortium – an industry group that includes device manufacturers, accessory makers and others.

² An IP68 certification means a device has received a 6 ranking (out of a possible 6, with 6 being the best) in terms of protection against solid damage, and an 8 ranking (out of a possible 8, with 8 being the best) for protection against water of up to 1.5m in depth for up to 30 minutes (not advised for beach or pool use). In the case of contact with water, users are advised to immediately rinse any residue and dry the device.

³ Tokenization is a process that generates virtual information for a transaction without the storing of financial details in a device. This protects users’ financial information.

Samsung Electronics today introduces the Galaxy Tab Active2, a new business-rugged tablet built for business through a customer-centric design inspired by professionals with the latest innovations from Samsung. The Galaxy Tab Active2 helps accelerate the digital transformation of industries among key verticals like transportation, public safety and manufacturing by offering a wider range of features such as biometrics integration, multi-window screens and S Pen capabilities that function in extreme working conditions, ultimately improving worker productivity and flexibility.

“The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active2 was built based on in-depth customer and partner feedback and has been carefully developed to create a whole new category of tablet for the global workforce,” said Suk-Jea Hahn, Executive Vice President of Samsung Electronics’ Global Mobile B2B Team. “We strategically worked to build a wider partner ecosystem for extended functionality through collaborations with leading industry players, such as IBM, ECOM Instruments, Gamber-Johnson, Ram®Mounts, iKey, Otterbox and Koamtac. With IBM Maximo, we are delighted to bring to Samsung, for the first time, industry leading asset management features for field workers to simplify their daily lives.”

Building a Partner Ecosystem with Industry Leaders

Samsung Mobile embraced an open approach with partners to expand the experience for the Galaxy Tab Active2 including working with IBM Maximo to integrate the capabilities of Asset Management and Work Management. By combining IBM’s advanced asset management capabilities with device features such as biometrics integration, multi-window screens and S Pen capabilities, tasks such as equipment inspection and maintenance will be easier and more efficient for workers, regardless of the complexity of the environment they are working in.

“With this collaboration, IBM Maximo and Samsung Mobile B2B are solving ever-changing business requirements for industrialized mobile devices and empowering field technicians with new tools designed to work where and how they do,” said Sanjay Brahmawar, general manager, IBM Watson IoT Sales. “Users will be able to conduct crucial on-premise analysis, such as updating work orders or counting inventory items, in an intuitive, friendly interface on a robust and reliable device.”

Additionally, the Galaxy Tab Active2 has professional-grade vehicle mounting options for commercial fleets and law enforcement through partnerships with Gamber-Johnson and Ram®Mounts. Other collaborations bring new features such as explosion protection for oil, gas, pharmaceutical and chemical industries with support from ECOM Instruments, portable barcode scanning from Koamtac, hand straps from Otterbox and rugged vehicle and portable keyboards from iKey.

Customer Inspired Innovation

The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active2 is MIL-STD-810 certified, ensuring that the tablet is durable enough to survive excessive pressure, temperatures, environments, vibration and drops. The Galaxy Tab Active2 offers business-rugged features such as a 1.2m anti-shock inbox protective cover, IP68 water and dust resistance and better display touch mode for gloved and wet touch. These features provide greater durability in extreme environments with a simple design and interface for one-handed input and holding.

Latest Innovations for Field Workers

The thin and light tablet in class designed specifically for worker ergonomics, Samsung’s latest tablet has features that expand the productivity tools for those on the job, including a new advanced and popular S Pen that brings precise input options with 4096 pressure level and air command feature. The S Pen also features IP68 water and dust resistance for use in outdoor environments, even during rain and wet conditions.

Using the improved 5MP camera with 8MP Auto Focus, business users will experience better quality photos for work purpose such as ID card and passport scanning. A new fingerprint scanner offers enhanced security authentication, and the facial recognition feature is a convenient option for unlocking the device using just one hand. When paired with new gyroscope and geomagnetic sensors, employees will also benefit from a wide range of augmented reality (AR) capabilities. AR can now be used with Galaxy Tab Active2 for employee training and customer support experiences allowing businesses to train employees in a realistic environment before ever reaching the job site. It also contains NFC feature.

The device also features LTE connectivity, easy and convenient power charging with efficient battery control of multiple devices and additional data signal pins for optional keyboard connection.

Security and Management Businesses Demand

The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active2 provides businesses with enhanced options for security, supported by the defense-grade Knox platform and convenient biometric authentication including a new fingerprint scanner offering improved security authentication and facial recognition for convenient hands-free access.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab Active2 will be available from October 2017 in select markets. For more information on the Galaxy Tab Active2 visit http://www.samsungmobilepress.com, news.samsung.com/galaxy or www.samsung.com/galaxy.

*All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

Samsung Galaxy Tab Active2 Product Specifications

The Power to Do More

Providing up to 6GB of RAM memory plus up to 256GB of expandable memory via microSD card,* the Galaxy Note8 provides large-scale capacity for running and storing essential data such as documents, movies and music. These features along with the phone’s 10nm application processor (AP) give users the power they need to browse, stream, play games and multitask.

The Galaxy Note8 is also gigabit LTE and gigabit Wi-Fi ready, meaning that it is built to give users superior connection speed by tapping into network speeds that can go as high as 1 gigabit per second.

Protection Against the Elements

Because the entire device including its S Pen is IP68 water and dust resistant,** the Galaxy Note8 lets users take photos, check email and jot down their thoughts without interruption – even when the screen is wet.

To create a water resistant device, Samsung engineers had to ensure the protection of every component.

In particular, the S Pen required the integration of multiple technologies including printed circuit board (PCB) molding and rubber sealing. The molding covers the surface of the PCB and consists of a special epoxy material. Rubber sealing, meanwhile, prevents water damage by sealing off all vulnerable passageways and by covering important components without affecting their functionality.

The S Pen’s pen tip, for example, reaches to the internal components of the pen and makes tiny movements that trigger the pen pressure switch. In addition to preventing water from flowing in, the sealing process also ensures that there is enough room for the pen tip to move as needed.

Unlock at Once

Equipped with the latest version of the industry-leading security platform Samsung Knox, the Galaxy Note8 provides strengthened security features and enhanced convenience through a combination of biometrics. Leveraging Samsung’s innovative iris and fingerprint scanning, the Galaxy Note8 offers various services to provide an additional layer of security while facial recognition capabilities enhance convenience.

Users can opt to access Secure Folder, an encrypted folder that lets users manage private apps and files securely via PIN, pattern, passcode or biometric authentication to keep private and personal data sandboxed separately on their smartphone. Similarly, Samsung Pass enables people to quickly and easily log into mobile banking apps and websites on the Samsung Internet Browser using biometric authentication rather than having to repeatedly input usernames and passwords.

Galaxy Note8 users can also make use of iris and fingerprint scanning to access Samsung Pay, enabling a secure, yet more convenient way to pay.

Charged Up and Ready to Go

The Galaxy Note8 features a 3,300 mAh battery and charges quickly using a USB-C port. The phone also supports the most advanced wireless charging capabilities yet, so users can get a quick, convenient charge without having to mess around with ports or wires, and have more time to get things done.

Furthermore, the Galaxy Note8 has passed the 8-Point Battery Safety Check, the most rigorous in the industry.  It is also approved by UL, a leading independent safety science company.

* MicroSD card sold separately.

** Water resistance rating is based on test conditions of submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for up to 30 minutes.

Built for the Great Outdoors

While well-fitting boots, goggles and a stylish jacket are all important components of slope wear, the Gear S3 is the ideal addition to one’s gear.

The Gear S3 Frontier, in particular, was made for the outdoors and adds a touch of sophistication to an otherwise sporty look.  But it doesn’t just look good. With military-level durability and IP68 water and dust resistance, it is also able to stand up to low temperatures, strong winds and even snow, should you happen to take a few spills.

Ultimate Functionality, Right from Your Wrist

The Gear S3 makes it easy to check the weather, even before walking outside. Detailed weather information including the current conditions and temperature, daily highs and lows, rainfall probability and UV index are available at a glance, right from your wrist.

Once on the slopes, you don’t even have to take off your gloves to check the altitude and air pressure. Simply rotate the bezel to navigate between widgets.

Thanks to its embedded sensors, the Gear S3 can accurately measure these conditions, and track changes over the previous six hours. This information is especially useful in the case that the weather becomes inclement, and can help you adjust your plans as needed.

As exhilarating and exciting as skiing can be, it’s sometimes necessary to stay connected. Fortunately, with the Gear S3, you can take calls, check messages and send quick replies with a twist of the bezel, without ever taking your smartphone out of your pocket. The Gear S3 LTE model, meanwhile, will allow you to connect even without your smartphone, so you can leave it back at the ski lodge.

Safety Features You Can Count On

Getting caught in bad weather is a big concern for winter sportsmen and women. The Gear S3 is equipped with an SOS feature that can be used in the case of a snowstorm or other emergency.

All it takes to activate the feature is a triple push of the button on the bottom right corner of the smartwatch. Once an SOS is triggered, the Gear S3 sends a call to your pre-programmed contact. Location tracking functionality then lets responders pinpoint your position in real time.

Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding or just along for the ride, enjoy winter sports with the Gear S3!

The Gear S3 offers two bold, refined designs with sophisticated features such as standalone wireless network connectivity*, a built-in GPS, MST technology and IP68 dust and water resistance. Furthermore, enhanced personalization features, such as customizable watchfaces and interchangeable bands, allow users to make the device their own.

So, whether you’re an adventurer, an on-the-go professional, Superdad or a gearhead, the Gear S3 adds both convenience and fun to your everyday life. See how in the videos below.

*LTE support will be available on the Gear S3 frontier in the U.S. and select countries.

**All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

Samsung Electronics has officially released its sixth color edition of the Galaxy S7 edge: Blue Coral. Starting November 1, the Blue Coral Galaxy S7 edge will be available in selected markets around the globe. Specific availability details will be announced by each market’s wireless providers and regional Samsung offices.

The new Blue Coral edition follows this year’s color trends, which are less vivid and more tranquil. Inspired by nature, the color shimmers as if it is illuminated from the inside of the phone’s glass surface.

In particular, Samsung applied a contrasting gold tone hue to the phone’s metallic frame. The resulting two-toned combination is at once calming and sophisticated.

Featuring a sleek design with ergonomic curves, the Galaxy S7 edge incorporates cutting edge mobile technologies that enhance the user experience. Included among these features are its Dual Pixel camera—the first to be implemented on a smartphone—that delivers brighter and sharper images, even in low light, as well as its Always On Display, IP68 water and dust resistance and microSD card slot.

In addition to Blue Coral, the Galaxy S7 edge is available in Black Onyx, Gold Platinum, White Pearl, Silver Titanium and Pink Gold.

With the Galaxy Note7’s global replacement program well underway, Samsung Electronics has announced that new Galaxy Note7 devices will soon be available for purchase in markets across the globe. Sales of the new Galaxy Note7 commenced on October 1 in Korea, and will follow suit in markets worldwide in the coming weeks.

On September 30, the eve of the resumption of Galaxy Note7 sales, Samsung opened Galaxy Note7 experience zones in a number of locations across Korea. The experience zones allowed people to enjoy the device’s best-in-class productivity, security and entertainment features, and attracted large crowds of consumers eager to get their hands on the Galaxy Note7.

“Along with the several other experience zones showcasing Samsung’s latest product, guests have crowded our Galaxy Note7 experience zone since this morning,” said Junghyun Kim, Manager of the Seoul-based Samsung D’light shop. “We found that many people are excited to check out the iris scanner, the new S Pen features, such as S Translator, and the camera,” he continued. “Many existing Galaxy Note7 users have already visited and exchanged their phones for a new Galaxy Note7 or other Galaxy device, and more and more people are inquiring about purchasing the Galaxy Note7.”

As Galaxy Note7’s sales resumed, Samsung opened Galaxy Note7 experience zones in several locations in Korea on September 30.

A customer checks out Galaxy Note7’s new and innovative S Pen features.

A customer tries to see how fast the Galaxy Note7’s camera can capture the moment for himself.

Customers were excited to explore Galaxy Note7’s new features including the iris scanner at the experience zone.

To help users enjoy their Galaxy Note7 with complete confidence, Samsung has implemented three specific software changes affecting the battery indication. The new Galaxy Note7 features a green battery icon that’s visible on the Status Bar, the Always On Display screen and the Power Off prompt screen—accessed by long-pressing the power key. Additionally, users can easily verify that they’re using the latest Galaxy Note7 by looking for a square symbol on the label of the phone’s packaging.

The Galaxy Note7 was designed to help users do more than they may have thought possible with a smartphone, featuring a 5.7-inch curved QHD Super AMOLED display perfect for both productivity and entertainment, as well as the ever-versatile S Pen, which is much more than just a writing tool. The phone’s iris-scanning technology, backed by Samsung’s defense-grade Knox platform, introduces a new standard in mobile security, while IP68 water resistance affords users more freedom to utilize their phone’s innovative features.

Customer safety remains Samsung’s highest priority. As the company introduces new Galaxy Note7 devices to the market, Samsung continues to strongly encourage all Galaxy Note7 users who have not yet participated in the exchange program to immediately do so by contacting their place of purchase or calling a designated local call center as soon as possible.

The S Pen is an unmistakable trademark of the Galaxy Note series, providing a unique experience that extends beyond traditional writing and navigational capabilities. With the Galaxy Note7, Samsung made enhancements to the S Pen, providing unsurpassed convenience so users can do even more on their smartphone, faster than ever before.

An Analog Feeling in Digital Form

The most noteworthy enhancement of the new S Pen is that it replicates the ease and accuracy of a real pen.

The optimized pen tip—which is possibly the most important component of a writing utensil—is made from an elastomer material that allows it to glide smoothly over the smartphone screen. It is also about 60 percent smaller than its predecessor, measuring 0.7 millimeters in diameter. The pen tip is comparable in size to that of a traditional writing tool, allowing for finer penmanship, and it is sharper to make the writing experience more natural and enable more detailed illustrations.

Together, these components work to emulate the feeling of ink on paper—a comfortable transition from analog to digital. The button on the S Pen has been moved to a new location to eliminate the possibility of unintentionally pressing it, making the writing and drawing process even more comfortable.

Also, the pressure sensitivity levels on the new S Pen have been improved from 2,048 to 4,096.

Enhanced Hardware

Unlike other devices on the market, the Galaxy Note S Pen is battery-free and does not need to be charged. Furthermore, it is stored in the phone itself, making it easily accessible anytime, anywhere.

The Galaxy Note7, including the S Pen, is water and dust resistant with IP68 certification.* Making the S Pen water resistant was made possible because of the electromagnetic resonance (EMR) technology. The S Pen’s internal coil and the phone’s digitizer recognize each other’s electromagnetic fields, and utilize signals to identify the pen’s location and pressure to enable writing and drawing functions. Unlike a stylus or the human finger, which both use static electricity to work, the functionality of EMR technology is unaffected by water.

To make the S Pen water resistant, Samsung engineers had to ensure the protection of every component. They did so by integrating multiple technologies, including printed circuit board (PCB) molding and rubber sealing.

The molding in particular covers the surface of the PCB and consists of a special epoxy material. This material is ultra-thin but is durable enough to ensure complete water resistance. The molding shape was also carefully crafted, taking into consideration the S Pen switch.

Rubber sealing, on the other hand, prevents water damage by sealing off all vulnerable passageways, and by covering important components. This sealing process provides the ultimate protection from water without affecting the S Pen’s functions or components. Take the S Pen’s pen tip, for example. This structure reaches to the internal components of the pen and makes tiny movements that trigger the pen pressure switch. In addition to preventing water from flowing in, the sealing process also ensures that there is enough room for the pen tip to move as needed.

The Evolution of Digital Doodling

Inspiration can strike anytime – even if your phone is off. That’s why Samsung designed the Galaxy Note7 so the S Pen can be used even when the screen is off.

With the new Screen off memo on Always On Display feature, users can simply pin a memo to the Always On Display for a quick reminder about important events and tasks. In the same way they might jot down a memo on a sticky note, users can scribble short messages directly on the display.

Memos remain displayed on the screen for an hour, and are automatically stored in the Samsung Notes app. They can be checked at a later time by double tapping the memo icon.

Because the S Pen handles multiple functionalities, note-taking functions were previously divided into several apps such as Action Memo, S Note, Scrapbook and Memo. With the Galaxy Note7, Samsung integrated all of these functions into a single consolidated application called Samsung Notes.

With Samsung Notes, users can create, edit and manage all S Pen creations as well as other types of memos from one convenient location. They can also import existing content from S Note and Memo and continue using it on the app.

Another convenient addition to the Galaxy Note7 is its optimized text input options. With support for check boxes, numbering and font colors, organizing to-do and shopping lists is a breeze.

In addition to text, the phone offers a wider array of drawing tools. The Galaxy Note7 boasts six types of specialized drawing tools that let users better express themselves and bring their creative ideas to life. The oil paintbrush allows users to mix multiple colors and the watercolor paintbrush enables color layering. Additionally, with the calligraphy brush, by applying different pressure levels, users can change the thickness of the strokes.

Tools to Do More

The S Pen uses an electromagnetic field so the display is able to recognize the S Pen even when it is not in direct contact with the device. In fact, it can be detected by the smartphone from a distance of up to 14 millimeters. Accordingly, Samsung has improved hovering capabilities that enable certain functions when the S Pen is within this specified distance from the display.

These new features add even more fun and convenience to the smartphone experience. It’s now easier to create, save and share not only images, but also animated GIFs, which can be captured from videos with Smart Select.

Translate** is another example. Without opening a dictionary, users can effortlessly look up the meaning of a word by simply hovering over it with the S Pen. This includes words formatted as images, which are recognized by Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology. Translate can identify 38 languages and translate recognized words into 71 languages.

The new Magnify feature can be used to enlarge small text from news articles, documents and even images on websites that do not permit zooming.

Whether painting, scribbling or jotting down ideas, the smoother, faster, more intelligent Galaxy Note7 S Pen lets users push the limits of what they can do on their smartphone—whether it’s for work or for play.

For more product information, please visit www.samsung.com/galaxy

*S Pen IP68 water resistance was tested in a controlled environment (1.5 meters of clean, 15-30 degree Celsius water for 30 minutes).

**This feature may differ by country.

***All functionality features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

These are just some of the major enhancements that users will get with the Galaxy Note7. Explore some of the other ways Samsung made its newest flagship smartphone the best yet.

* All functionality features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

• A water resistant body and S Pen (IP68)*
• Top-of-the-line security that combines Samsung Knox with biometric authentication including a new iris scanning feature
• Immersive entertainment capabilities with HDR video streaming capabilities.

The Galaxy Note7 strikes a balance between work and play, enabling people to achieve more than what they thought possible on a smartphone.

“The Galaxy Note7 combines productivity and entertainment, and strong security features. Powering a robust ecosystem, it is the ideal device for those who want to achieve more in life,” said DJ Koh, President of Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics. “Life moves faster than ever now so we created the Galaxy Note7 to move with users – helping them get things done more easily wherever, whenever.”

Galaxy Note7 S Pen: Quickly and Easily Bring Ideas to Life

The enhanced Galaxy Note7 S Pen is more than just a writing tool – it is the gateway to getting more done efficiently and accurately. Users can bring ideas to life the moment inspiration strikes without unlocking the screen by using Screen off memo and simply pinning the memo to the Always On Display. The S Pen also gives users the ability to easily create and share GIF animations with Smart Select, and new Air Command functions, including Magnify and Translate, enable users to zoom in on the screen or convert languages by simply hovering. It is even easier to access the best of the S Pen’s creative abilities with Samsung Notes, a new unified app allowing users to jot down handwritten notes, draw, or edit memos from one location.

The new S Pen writes with ease and precision. The smaller 0.7mm tip and improved pressure sensitivity provides a real pen-like experience. With the peace of mind that IP68 water resistant provides, the Galaxy Note7 S Pen lets users jot down their thoughts without interruption, even when the screen gets wet.

Advanced Security: Now in the Blink of an Eye

Samsung understands the importance of keeping content on your phone protected. Coupled with Samsung Knox, an industry-leading security platform, the Galaxy Note7 provides heightened security and privacy, with highly advanced biometric authentication, including fingerprint scanner and iris scanning technology. The Galaxy Note7 offers more authentication options that can be used interchangeably depending on how you use your phone, where you are, or what you’re doing.

The Galaxy Note7 instills a new level of user confidence with Secure Folder, a separated folder that adds an extra layer of security to keep private and personal information safe. The iris recognition technology will also be used to authenticate secure purchases people make with Samsung Pay. The Galaxy Note7 will also support Samsung Pass, bringing authentication such as iris scanning and fingerprint recognition to more apps and services.

Best-in-Class Entertainment

The phone is one of the most important screens in a user’s life because it’s with them all of the time. The Galaxy Note7 features a gorgeous, curved 5.7-inch QHD Super AMOLED screen delivering a bold and immersive picture on a smartphone. It is ready to stream HDR video, enabling a cinema-like experience including brighter colors and a deeper black, which ensure users get the full experience that the filmmaker intended. The Galaxy Note7 also features Game Pack, available through Google Play, including top game titles, an easier redemption process and new user benefits.

By pairing the Galaxy Note7 with the new Gear VR powered by Oculus, users can experience premium virtual reality almost anywhere. Galaxy Note7’s incredible Super AMOLED screen and powerful processor delivers an ultra-immersive experience. The vast and ever growing library of apps, photos, games and more puts users in the center of the action. Whether it’s next level gaming or journeying to places users have never been before, there’s always something new to discover.

For people who live to create, tell stories and transport people to entirely new worlds, the Galaxy Note7 can be used with the new high-resolution (3840×1920) Gear 360 camera, to capture, edit and share 360-degree images videos on the go. These memories can then be shared with friends via platforms including YouTube 360 and Facebook, and relive the moment with the ultra-immersive Gear VR.

Galaxy Foundation with Refined Craftsmanship

Samsung continues to defy boundaries of engineering with the Galaxy Note7 to perfect the user experience through innovative design. Every edge, surface and detail of the device’s design has been refined to provide a comfortable grip and easier one-handed operation, while remaining durable with Corning® Gorilla® Glass 5. Although the Galaxy Note7 features a large-screen, the unique front-to-back symmetrical dual-edge curve remains balanced and light with the sleek feel users have come to love from the Galaxy series. The curved screen lets the Galaxy Note7 add the powerful Edge Panel for one-tap user access to applications, news and functions.

The Galaxy Note7 is equipped with the advanced camera introduced on the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge The dual-pixel sensor technology, wide aperture and fast auto focus work together to create sharp and beautiful photos even in low-light environments.

In addition to 64GB of internal memory, the Galaxy Note7 offers expandable storage and microSD support up to 256GB. The Galaxy Note7 is equipped with a 3,500mAh battery, easy Power Management UX through Smart Manager, and charges quickly using the new USB-C port. Refresh the Galaxy Note7 wherever you find wireless charger, especially on Samsung’s Fast Charge Wireless Pads.

A new line of accessories will be available to complement the Galaxy Note7, including the new S View Standing Cover, a light and portable cover that can be used to prop the device at a 60-degree angle for easy viewing of content, as well as an IP68 water resistant Backpack for on-the-go charging.

Creating a Phone+ Ecosystem of Connected Experiences

The Galaxy Note7 is more than just a smartphone; it’s a connection point to Samsung’s ecosystem of devices, software and services. Users can monitor their fitness activities on the Gear Fit2 or Gear IconX and track their data through S Health 5.0.** In addition to accurate and robust fitness tracking and measurement, the new S Health enables users to stay connected to family and friends by sharing fitness updates or competing in friendly challenges with one another. All health information is encrypted and protected with Samsung Knox.

With the Galaxy Note7, consumers can use the iris scanner to access value-added Samsung services like Samsung Pay** for quick and easy mobile payments.

The Smart Switch feature has been enhanced further with Samsung Cloud, which supports a seamless device experience by providing continuous backup and easy transfer of content including data, apps, settings and layouts between devices. Galaxy Note7 users will be able to use up to 15GB of free space to store and restore information on Samsung Cloud.**

The Galaxy Note7 will be available starting on August 19, and will be offered in Blue Coral, Gold Platinum, Silver Titanium and Black Onyx.

For additional product information, please visit www.samsungmobilepress.com, http://news.samsung.com/galaxy or www.samsung.com/galaxy.

Samsung Galaxy Note7 Product Specifications

Samsung Gear VR for Galaxy Note7 Product Specifications

*Dust and water resistance based on IP68 rating, which tests submersion up to 5 feet for up to 30 minutes.

**Service availability and scope may vary by each region and market condition.

***All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation.

The Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge are designed to be water and dust resistant, so that it can join you wherever you go – through rain or shine. The new feature solves one of the biggest pain points of mobile devices, yet developing this innovative technology and applying it in a way that maintained Samsung’s design heritage was no easy feat.

Suk Chul Park and Jong Min Choi, senior engineers of the Mechanical R&D, Mobile Communications Business, explained what went into developing the device’s water and dust resistant feature, as well as the challenges and rewards that came along with the process.

(From left to right) SukChul Park and Jong Min Choi, senior engineers of the Mechanical R&D

Q. What differentiates a water and dust resistant phone from other devices on the market?

Jong Min Choi: Normally, when a mobile phone is exposed to water, the liquid leaks into the body, eroding its hardware and causing electrical shorts. These phones are designed with special materials or tapes that safeguard them when they are exposed to small amounts of water. However, these measures cannot protect them against larger quantities of water.

In contrast, water and dust resistant phones are equipped with a more advanced technology that prevents moisture from reaching their inner workings. This technology allows people to use the phone safely, even in very wet environments.

Q. What is most notable about the water and dust resistant features of the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge?

Suk Chul Park: Most other water and dust resistant phones come with bulky detachable covers or a clunky design, but the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge offer excellent protection without sacrificing the aesthetics of the phone.

To ensure exceptional water and dust resistance, we conducted rigorous experiments to find the right materials to seal the device’s USB port without using protective caps. We were looking to do this without compromising the devices’ compact look and feel.

It is definitely not easy to apply the water and dust resistant feature to s mass-produced flagship smartphone, but to design a metal-body phone without a cap was a huge challenge as well.

Q. What technology did you use to accomplish this?

Choi: To start, we looked at making potentially vulnerable parts more water and dust resistant. Non-corrodible materials like Nickel and Platinum were selected for frequently used parts such as an USB port or an earphone jack, not to harm the functionality.

Another point was to use special elastic material during assembly for sealing to block the moisture. When assembling individual parts like USB port, earphone jack or SIM card tray, there has to be a slight hiatus. Special silicon-type material is used to close that gap to prevent water from getting into the phone.

Q. What unique development challenges did you have to tackle when making the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge?

Choi: Finding the right liquid-sealing material was probably the biggest challenge. We needed a material that was fairly solid to repel water, but also flexible enough to function as a sealant.

We also needed it to be easily removable to allow people to make repairs to the device, and also to ensure it would not be affected by temperature and humidity changes. Finding the right materials involved a lot of trial and error.

Park: One of those efforts was to apply water and dust resistant feature within the limited bezel space in order to maintain its size.

In particular, the Galaxy S7 edge has an extremely narrow bezel and curved display which made it impossible to apply water protective tape around the edge. To maintain and highlight the curved display of the Galaxy S7 edge, a different approach was needed. The material and location of the water protective tape were changed and liquid sealing material was used for the curvy area and to connect the taped part. Also, curved display itself is made up with water resistant material.

Q. What did you need to do to enable functionality without negatively affecting the devices’ aesthetic appeal?

Park: Through our research, we were able to develop ultra-thin water protective tape that provides high levels of water and dust resistance. We also developed a special sealant that can protect against water in both flat and curvy parts of the devices.

Special connection technology was also used to seal the space between the device’s metal frame and plastic parts for the antenna placement, replacing the plastic resin method used in previous devices. We also used non-corrodible materials and an erosion-free coating to protect the exposed parts of the device from humidity.

Q. Is it possible to use the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge underwater? Can users take them to the waterpark or the beach?

Choi: It won’t present any problems if you use these devices under fresh water for a short time, but it is recommended that you do so according to the product specifications. In fact, the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge are certified with an IP68 rating, which is the highest rating available for water and dust resistance of electronic appliance. However, ratings do not guarantee a device’s performance beyond the specified depth of water, or in liquids other than water.

We would recommend against using the phones for longer periods of time under high-pressure water taps, or in the ocean or other saltwater environments.

Q. What was the most significant moment for you personally during the development process?

Park: In the very first water and dust resistance tests, we actually failed a lot more than we succeeded. People from just about every department watched our tests, so it was a bit embarrassing. Some were skeptical about applying water-resistant features to the phones, but we saw a lot of hope in the success cases, and soon began to weed out the problems one by one until we finally got to IP68 standard.

Choi: We conducted so many experiments with so many materials that I started to have dreams about testing the devices! Ensuring durability for a device as uniquely designed as the Galaxy S7 devices was obviously going to be tough, but everyone was excited about the challenge. When the phones were revealed to the public, it was rewarding for us to see such an enthusiastic response to their water and dust resistance.

Watch how Samsung conducted water and dust resistance tests on its newest Galaxy smartphones.

What makes a good smartphone?

Extraordinary design? Groundbreaking features? High-powered performance?

In short, a good smartphone is one that answers to the needs and demands of the user.

Created for today’s mobile lifestyle, the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge do just that by leading the industry with a unique mobile experience that features a refined design, higher-quality camera, enhanced software functionality, and unsurpassed connectivity to a galaxy of services, products and experiences. In addition, Samsung’s latest flagship devices marry sleek design with powerful performance so users can do even more, faster and easier.

Here are seven reasons why the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge are the most anticipated smartphones yet.

1. High Quality Images, No Matter the Time of Day or Location

The most raved about new features of the latest additions to Samsung’s Galaxy S line-up are its new camera capabilities. As the first smartphones to apply Dual Pixel technology, the devices are able to capture high quality images in low light environments, while a large F1.7 aperture ensures brighter, sharper photographs. New Motion Panorama and Selfie Flash functions let users have an entirely new phonetography experience.

2. Refined Design

While preserving the design heritage of its predecessor, the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge boast an even more seamless connection between its glass and metal materials, along with a slimmer rear camera. Thanks to the curvy form of the devices’ glass, these models now provide an even better grip and naturally fit in one hand. And, bringing back the microSD slot, the new flagship smartphones are more functional than ever.

3. Water and Dust Resistance

For people who work, travel and play in all kinds of locations and environments, the upgraded IP68 water and dust resistance of the devices is especially well-received. As the premium standard of protection against water and dust, the feature allows users to enjoy the sleek, curvy design of Samsung’s latest flagship smartphones without the inconvenience of a bulky additional case.

4. Made for Gaming

With their optimized hardware and enhanced UX, which allow for smoother graphics and longer playing times, Samsung’s new smartphones can satisfy even the most demanding mobile gamer. And with the new Game Launcher app, users now have the ability to take control of their mobile gaming experience with numerous customization options.

5. A Phone That Stands Out, Even When the Screen is Off

The Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge offer a new Always On Display (AOD) feature that delivers constant information and notifications, such as the time or number of missed calls, while utilizing a miniscule amount of battery. With plenty of customization features, the AOD can be as unique as its user.

6. Simple and Soft UX

Customizable lock and home screens, beautified icons and the user-friendly Android 6.0 Marshmallow operating system have taken the user experience of the new Galaxy smartphones to an entirely new level. In particular, the refined edge screen of the Galaxy S7 edge provides practical functions and easier access to users’ frequently used content and tasks.

7. An Assortment of Accessories

No smartphone is complete without its accessories, and Samsung offers a collection of them to complement the design and enhance the features of its just-revealed devices. From battery packs and a LINE Friends collection to a new LED View Cover and the lifestyle band, Charm, these new accessories offer seamless integration to enhance one’s personal style.

The Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge will be available starting March 11 in select markets.