Using the camera is one of the top three functions for smartphone users, along with making calls and browsing the internet. Users usually produce most of their content with their smartphone camera. Because people are increasingly using smartphone cameras in situations in which they previously used a digital camera, they have become more demanding about smartphone camera features.

Many people expect high-quality shots even in low light, while others want cameras that can take good photos while on the move. In addition, consumers constantly share pictures and communicate through social media. With all these factors in mind, we came up with a camera for the Galaxy S6 that more than satisfies users’ needs.

As smartphones and the use of social media become more and more widespread, the culture of taking selfies has now grown into a social phenomenon. In order to meet the demands of users, the size of the image sensor of the front camera on the Galaxy S6 is 1.4 times larger in size compared to the Galaxy S5 and the Galaxy Note 4. The camera resolution, 5 megapixels, is also greater than previous models. This is the first time that we have enlarged the sensors. Until now, we increased the resolution while minimizing the sensor size because of the trend of thinner and lighter smartphones. But this time, we focused on gaining resolution with bigger sensors. We also considered the fact that users take a lot of selfies with front cameras.

Read Part 1: [Editorial] Starting at Zero: The Story Behind the Design of the Galaxy S6 and S6 edge

We managed to increase the camera sensor size while maintaining its overall thinness. The sensors on the rear camera could not be increased without making them any thicker. So instead, the rear camera lens was built with a lowered f-value (aperture value). The Galaxy S6 can take high quality dark shots as well as brighter shots since it can gather more light in the same situation with the improved aperture value. In addition, the shutter speed is quicker so that people can take pictures of whatever moment they want. Moreover, the software algorithm has been improved to provide photographs with higher definition.

The Galaxy S6 was the first to apply Auto Real-time HDR (High Dynamic Range) on both front and rear cameras. HDR is a function that merges images with different luminance into one. In a picture, the bright part may be blown off or the darker part may appear even darker. The HDR helps overcome such limitations. However, the way the previous HDR worked was by developing one image by merging separate images with different levels of brightness. Since this method required processing time, the user could not check the results instantaneously. In addition, the HDR technology could not be applied to video filming.

The Auto Real-time HDR allows real-time adjustments of light and dark spots for a balanced result. With photos and videos, users can check the images on the spot since there is no processing time required. Users can take pictures quickly without missing the important moments.

In particular, the Auto Real-time HDR proves its true merits when filming videos because it efficiently adjusts various levels of brightness while filming in different spaces. Moreover, the Galaxy S6 added the Low-light Video function as well as the Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS). Under dark conditions or when shooting nightscapes, the Low-light Video function comes into action and raises the brightness, while the OIS modifies shaky videos due to hand movements.

Of course, not all smartphone users have an expert-level of knowledge of all the features of the camera. However, users want to be able to capture the beautiful moments of their everyday lives with high-quality pictures and videos, even if they don’t have expert knowledge of their phone’s features. The Galaxy S6 allows users to take high quality pictures at any time by simply pressing the shutter, without having to consider any background factors or conditions. The ‘Pro Mode’ is an option for those who want to control specific camera settings, satisfying users with professional knowledge over cameras.

How will the mobile camera trend evolve? The main focus will shift from pictures to videos. The OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) in Galaxy S6 and S6 edge was significantly improved, and shooting videos with difficult lighting will be easier with Auto Real-time HDR. Enhancement in the Low-light Video feature and image algorithm allows users to get excellent, brighter videos in low-light settings such as cafés or even in nighttime settings.

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[What Comes Next?] Camera on Samsung Galaxy S6

We began at zero. It was about returning to the beginning. The prime point of focus was the product’s fundamentals. The prototype of the Galaxy S6 took shape in the midst of heavy contemplation to preserve that essence.

An essence refers to a core without superfluous details. The ideal Samsung design was to be simple and yet innovative. As a designer, refining the smartphone, which is an integrated form of cutting-edge technology, is an attractive challenge. Until now, we were focused on delivering everything we could offer but this time, we returned to the very beginning to capture the essence of what Samsung wanted to extend to its consumers.

This was how the concept of “Beauty Meets Purpose” was born. Galaxy S6’s delivers an elegant balance between innovative form and ergonomic function.

By focusing on core design principles, the first step was to incorporate organic materials to deliver authenticity. After much consideration, glass became the obvious choice. Glass has depth even at its thinnest, so it was a perfect solution as a key component of its design.

Water was the inspiration behind the design because of its purity and malleability in color and depth. The Galaxy S6 uses 2.5D glass, which creates a water-like appearance with its rounded edges and flat surface. Samsung has used this glass since the Galaxy S3. Like a metal bowl filled to the brim with water, the glass is beautifully wrapped in metal to symbolically represent a dynamic harmony of reliable technology and creative design.

The back glass consists of a color pattern that delivers the depth of reflected light. If you inspect the glass closely, it looks diamond-cut for this reason. If you magnify the structural layer, you can see thousands of layers emitting light. Through the reflection of light from different angles, diverse and enchanting colors are created to deliver a mystical feel. The process to achieve a successful end result with various colors and a vacuum plating effect was developed after numerous attempts to get it just right.

The sleek metal and glass design is at the core of the Galaxy S6’s beauty. The refined sides were created with an elaborate cutting process, creating lines that resemble a metal bowl overflowing with water. The design enables a comfortable grip, while providing convenient access to the side keys.

Sidelines have been part of Samsung smartphones’ unique design identity since our Galaxy Alpha. Producing thinner phones made it increasingly more difficult to maintain this aspect, but we were able to stay true to Samsung’s design heritage.

Above all, the peak point of unique and differentiated sculptural beauty lies in the dual edge glass of Galaxy S6 edge. Samsung had already launched the Note edge with a curved display. This evolved into the dual curved display of the Galaxy S6 edge. The concept for the edge screen of Note edge was more of an extra screen that is attached to the main display. Galaxy S6 edge, on the other hand, is a design aspect that provides a 3D effect with both sides curved. It appears to feature one display, and the device’s grip has also been improved.

Galaxy S6 is aimed at customers who want an innovative and classic product featuring the usability of prior models. Galaxy S6 edge, on the other hand, was designed to surprise and delight consumers through the innovative form factor.

The best part of this project was that we could continuously develop and refine the original design. With Galaxy S6, we had one voice and goal from start to end. Similar to the tempering process to harden metal, we pushed forward with one goal. New material, color and construction methods were used to develop a simple design that delivered the fundamentals to customers without added complexities.

If I had to sum up the core of our philosophy in one word, it would be innovation. Innovation is the keyword that captures the immutable philosophy of our design. We focus on innovation in all that we do.

From left: Hong-Ku Yeo, MinHyouk Lee, Ji-Young Lee, Hye-Jin Bang, Hyok-Su Choi