The world is now more connected than ever, and while it’s easy enough to share the moments of one’s daily life, Samsung’s Gear 360 allows you to take that connection one step further by turning the mundane into the extraordinary. In fact, the camera’s ability to capture immersive content makes viewers feel as if they, too, are experiencing the sights and sounds in the same way the camera user might when capturing the subjects and settings in view.

Compact and lightweight, the Gear 360 is ideal for preserving the moments of everyday life in 360 degrees, whether you’re at a favorite local hangout with family or exploring an exotic land with new friends. With the Gear 360, Gear VR and Galaxy smartphones, anyone can experience the next generation of content creating and sharing.

See how Samsung’s Gear 360 can transform the way you share your life in the infographic below.

*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.

Even event attendees in the rear of the auditorium got an immersive, up-close look at Samsung’s new products, thanks to the more than 5,000 Gear VR headsets that were distributed at the event.

Just ahead of Mobile World Congress 2016, Samsung Electronics made waves in Barcelona with its most immersive Galaxy Unpacked event yet on February 21. The company rolled out the highly anticipated flagship smartphones, the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge, along with the boundary-breaking Gear 360 camera, much to the delight of the thousands in attendance, as well as those live streaming the event from around the world.

Held under the theme “Beyond Barriers,” the company showcased its continued efforts to push past limits and journey through the unexplored. Staying true to the theme, the event was centered around a 360-degree square stage that was “unpacked” at the start of the event, when an arrangement of glowing transformative screens hanging above it opened like a box.

This stunning 3D effect was only enhanced by the more than 5,000 Gear VR headsets that were donned by attendees during new product introductions—a memorable highlight that received cheers from all corners of the auditorium. The event was also the industry’s first to be broadcasted live in virtual reality, making it possible for viewers to get a front-row view of the action from the comfort of their homes.

The event began with “Unpacking Samsung,” a video that featured the compelling story behind Samsung’s innovation in the mobile industry. It was followed up by a motivating opening speech by DJ Koh, President of Samsung Electronics Mobile Communications Business, who discussed Samsung’s commitment to developing people-inspired innovation. There were also guest appearances by Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Tim Sweeney, founder of Epic Games, which demonstrated the company’s strong commitment to the industry.

In case you missed it, here is a recap of the highlights in photos.

Anticipation builds outside Centre de Convencions Internacional de Barcelona, where attendees await the commencement of Unpacked and the revelation of The Next Galaxy.

Event attendees gather inside the packed venue around a truly immersive stage before the start of Galaxy Unpacked.

Transformative screens open to unveil the Samsung Galaxy Unpacked 2016 stage.

DJ Koh, President of Samsung Electronics Mobile Communications Business, opens the event with a speech emphasizing Samsung’s efforts to overcome barriers to develop people-inspired innovation. “Tell us that the world should be flat,” he said, “and we will show you a galaxy that curves on endlessly into an even better future.”

Even event attendees in the rear of the auditorium got an immersive, up-close look at Samsung’s new products, thanks to the more than 5,000 Gear VR headsets that were distributed at the event.

DJ Koh unveils the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge, the newest additions to Samsung’s Galaxy S flagship lineup.

Justin Denison, Vice President and Head of Mobile Products at Samsung Electronics America, discusses the streamlined designs, refined function, advanced cameras and enhanced performance of the new Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge. The audience was especially impressed by the devices’ IP68 and expandable memory features, as well as their enhanced camera capabilities.

Tim Sweeney, founder of Epic Games and computer game programmer, makes a surprise guest appearance to showcase how Vulkan API is transforming mobile gaming.

Pranav Mistry, Global Vice President at Samsung Electronics and Head of Think Tank Team, shows off Samsung’s Gear 360, a unique, compact camera that allows consumers to create and share their own 360 degree video content. A demonstration of the device was showcased via the provided Gear VR headsets.

Facebook CEO and guest speaker Mark Zuckerberg explains the vast possibilities of virtual reality and 360-degree video, as well as the company’s partnership with Samsung Electronics.

Event attendees get hands-on with Samsung’s just-released products.

Event attendees get hands-on with Samsung’s just-released products.

Event attendees get hands-on with Samsung’s just-released products.

Guests get a first look at the unpacked Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge in the product experience zone.

Guests get a first look at the unpacked Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge in the product experience zone.

Recent years have seen smartphone cameras advance and evolve in incredible ways. While equipped with plenty of features and functions of DSLR cameras that allow users to capture great photos anywhere at any time, previous smartphone cameras didn’t quite stack up to DSLR cameras in terms of taking high quality photographs in low-light environments. However, the new Galaxy S7 has overcome these limitations by employing the Dual Pixel image sensor—a first for a smartphone.

With the new sensor, the camera of the Galaxy S7 allows for fast shooting while ensuring great image quality, regardless of lighting conditions. In addition, the flagship device includes new camera features such as Motion Panorama and Selfie Flash, to provide an entirely new phonetography experience.

Auto Focus: The True Determinant of Competitive Advantage

The Dual Pixel image sensor employed in the camera of the Galaxy S7 splits every single pixel into two photodiodes for on-chip phase detection, promising vastly improved autofocus performance.

Dual Pixel technology, which is utilized in selective, high-end DSLR camera models, as well as those of the Galaxy S7, sends light from the lens to two image sensors separately to adjust the focus, much in the same way that the human eye does. For comparison, only about one percent of image sensor pixels of the Galaxy S6 were capable of recognizing phase and contrast, while 100 percent of the image pixels of the new device can do so.

Galaxy S6 (left) vs Galaxy S7 (right)

Galaxy S6 (left) vs Galaxy S7 (right)

The advantage of the Dual Pixel image sensor in the Galaxy S7 is most evident when taking pictures in a low-light environment. The newest smartphone model is equipped with 1.4um pixels (a 56 percent increase in size compared to the Galaxy S6) and a large F1.7 aperture (which allows for 25 percent more brightness). Combined, these features enable for 95 percent more light compared to its predecessor, which subsequently results in a much brighter and sharper image. Furthermore, the new model employs autofocusing at considerably faster speeds, allowing for faster shooting.

You can enjoy more photos at the Samsung Galaxy website.

New Ways to Record Memorable Moments

Samsung introduced the Panorama Shot mode in the Galaxy S in 2010, enabling users to take a photo of a much wider scene than the one visible on the screen. The same feature was installed as the Wide Selfie mode on the front-facing camera of the Galaxy S5 in 2014 to allow for a wide-angle selfie of up to 120 degrees. With the Galaxy S7, Samsung introduced a new kind of panorama mode to upgrade the smartphone photography experience.

The Motion Panorama Shot feature lets one record the movements of the subject being photographed in the Panorama Shot mode. The resulting images are as vivid and vibrant as videos. By simply swiping the captured image or moving the device a bit, users can view the motions of the captured panorama shot.

Another new feature of the Galaxy S7 is Hyperlapse, a variation of time lapse photography tailor-made for smartphones. Through Hyperlapse, users can compress hours of recording into seconds to illustrate the subtle movements of the photographed subject. The device automatically selects frames with soft and stable images, while minimizing camera shake with its adaptive vDIS (Video Digital Image Stabilization) function to produce a stable time lapse video.

The new feature automatically adjusts shooting speed based on the subject’s movements. It shoots slow moving subjects faster, and vice versa, making time lapse recording easier and more intuitive for beginners.

Putting Your Best Face Forward

Samsung has worked to lead the development of front-facing handset cameras since 2002, when it developed the first-ever phone capable of taking selfies. The company has since continued its efforts to increase pixel resolution, support wide-angle photography and introduce brighter lenses on mobile devices. The front-facing smartphone camera has evolved yet again in the Galaxy S7 to better meet the needs of self-expressive consumers.

The front-facing camera, like the rear camera, features an F1.7 lens to delivers bright, colorful selfies, even in low light. It also supports a Selfie Flash feature, which enables the user to use the AMOLED display of the phone as a camera flash when taking selfies in a low light environment (lower than 20Lux).

Taking advantage of the large, 5.1-inch display of the Galaxy S7, the camera flash has a greater but softer light-emitting surface than that of its LED flash. This results in a much softer surface lighting effect, which translates into a more colorful expression of the whole face. Once the device’s camera recognizes your face, you can adjust the intensity and direction of the light in order to create a natural lighting effect to make your facial features appear more defined.

The Galaxy S7 has also improved on its Beauty Face Shot mode by adding a 3D lighting effect to deliver brighter and clearer selfies, while Wide Selfie Shot mode creates a panorama effect. Additionally, the real-time High Dynamic Range (HDR) feature allows for images with even richer colors.

*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.

Generally, the design of a smartphone’s UX (user experience) must reflect what users want most from their devices and as such, Samsung Electronics took these needs and demands into careful consideration when refining the most recent additions to the Galaxy S line-up. Included among them are an Always On Display, which lets users check important information like time and notifications without waking the screen, as well as an enhanced processor and optimized software. Perhaps the two best words to describe the resulting UX of the new Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge are simple and soft.

Galaxy S6 (left) vs Galaxy S7 (right)

An Improved Look and Feel

One of the most visibly notable changes to the UX is the shape of the phone’s icons. Unlike the device’s predecessor, which featured icons of various shapes, the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge feature squircle (rounded square) icons to create a more organized, visually pleasing appearance. A user can even apply the squircle shape to third-party app icons by activating the icon customization function.

Samsung has also simplified the lock and home screens. Users can now customize these screens by adding two shortcut icons to their favorite apps. They also have the option of removing weather information from the lock screen.

The camera UX has also been modified. To make the function icons visible at all times, black strips were placed on the top and bottom of the screen. Users can also now launch their favorite camera modes even faster by placing shortcut icons directly on the camera screen.

Improved Usability

In terms of usability, the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge boast the recently released, user-friendly Android 6.0 Marshmallow operating system, which offers a whole host of new and improved features. Two of the most useful are Samsung Internet 4.0, which offers better privacy and functionality than the native browser, and Cross App, which lets users operate their favorite apps from within other apps.

The updated Smart Switch function lets users connect their devices’ built-in USB connector to other smartphones to transfer not only data files, but also home screen layouts and other phone settings in the same way they could with previous Galaxy models. (Support functions vary from model to model.)

A Cutting Edge UX

The most noteworthy modification of the Galaxy S7 edge’s UX is the enhanced edge screen. Rather than simply providing an aesthetic flair, the edge has been refined to provide practical functions and easier access to users’ frequently used content and tasks.

One way this was accomplished was by expanding the edge panel. While the edge panels of the Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6 edge+ boast an aspect ratio of 260 pixels, the edge panel of the latest flagship device has nearly doubled in size, enabling users to enjoy richer content on a bigger panel. The 550-pixel display also allows third party companies to showcase even more content on the edge panel, while its horizontal orientation makes it easier to read.

Through Samsung’s ever-growing partnerships, the company has established a diverse collection of content especially for the wider edge panel, and expects it to grow even more now that it has released its Edge Panel SDK. With the strengthening of this third party ecosystem, users can experience a differentiated and richer edge experience through specialized news, sports, finance and mobile shopping apps.

With the Galaxy S7 edge, users can do more, faster, thanks to added features of the edge screen. New functions include Tasks edge, a panel that provides shortcuts to often used app features and tasks, as well as Quick tools, a panel that assists in simplifying everyday life with tools such as a ruler, compass and customizable flashlight.

Existing edge functions have also been improved. The number of apps that users can register in the Apps edge has increased from 5 to 10, while People edge now provides the names in addition to photographs of one’s top contacts, enhancing intuitiveness and readability.

Users can now access all these panels more easily by customizing the location, size and transparency of the Edge handle—the fixed tab that activates the edge features. The Handle will not interfere with any apps in use, so users are free to work or play without the edge panel getting in the way.

Together, these changes promise to let Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge users get even more out of their devices.

*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.

Throughout the development process of the Galaxy S7 models, Samsung made a great deal of effort to add valuable functions and reintroduce consumers’ favorite features, all the while preserving the design heritage of its predecessor, the Galaxy S6. To do so, the company took the smallest details into account, from the materials utilized to its overall aesthetics.

Boasting a comfortable grip, ergonomic curves and a streamlined silhouette, the end result is a design of elegance, durability and comfort—one that delivers supreme mobile efficiency.

The Beauty of Curves

Samsung has done its best to bring every aesthetic detail of the exteriors of the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge closer to perfection.

Perhaps the most significant change in the latest design of the Galaxy S flagship series is illustrated in the sleek curves of the devices. All four sides of the device’s glass surfaces are carefully contoured, emulating the form of a three-dimensional water drop. The Galaxy S7 edge in particular features 3D curved glass on both the front and back.

To complete the design, Samsung spent months perfecting the 3D Thermoforming process. This method involves the insertion of glass between two molds, heating it to a pliable forming temperature, and then allowing it to then be pressed into a symmetrical shape. In this process, the glass is shaped in multiple directions at once, giving it its curved form.

To this end, Samsung was able to produce an even more seamless connection between the glass and metal parts from all angles, while smoothly aligning the side keys to the frame. In doing so, the design delivers maximum continuity when the products are held in one’s hand. In addition, the devices boast a slimmer rear camera to lessen the protrusion on the surface, which has increasingly become an area of focus as smartphones get thinner and thinner.

To best accentuate the luxurious appearance of the glass surfaces, the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge will be available in four different colors: Black Onyx, Gold Platinum, White Pearl and Silver Titanium.

A Grip on Design

Not only do the flagship devices look great, but they feel great, too. With an even slimmer bezel, both the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge boast a narrower body compared to that of their predecessors, resulting in a compact grip despite their large display size (5.1-inch and 5.5-inch, respectively). Combined with the curvy form of the rear glass, these models now provide an even better grip and naturally fit in one hand.

Durability for All Lifestyles

Despite the highly sophisticated design of the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge, the devices are also rich in features and strong in performance.

With an IP68 rating, the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge are both water and dust resistance, making them convenient for users of all lifestyles. The models’ USB ports are also now waterproof, even without USB cap. This is highly advantageous, as users need not open and close the port cover to charge the phone’s battery or transfer data.

Furthermore, a MicroSD slot allows for expandable storage and can support just about any SD card on the market, while a larger battery and fast wired and wireless charging speeds mean the devices can do more, longer. Without making any compromises, Samsung took just about everything to the next level with the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge.

*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.

With the rise of virtual reality devices like the Gear VR, 360-degree video is becoming one of the hottest trends in digital content. Until now, 360-degree video cameras were bulky and expensive, out of reach for most consumers.

But what if that were no longer true? What if an easy-to-use camera were capable of shooting in an immersive 360 degrees? Such a device could utterly change the way people capture and share their memories.

With the unveiling of the Samsung Gear 360, shooting in 360 degrees is no longer a fantasy. It has become a reality that anyone can explore, and is the latest new experience in Samsung’s ecosystem of industry-leading products.

360 Degrees in a Small Ball

The Gear 360 is a simple and sleek looking ball, featuring dual fisheye lenses—195-degree field-of-view cameras on either side of an aerodynamic white sphere. Software then automatically combines those two images together, cutting together two 180-degree images and stitching them together at the points where they overlap, to create a 360-degree look at the world all around the camera.

Or, should users choose to do so, they can use a single camera to capture videos and pictures for a simpler 180-degree view of half of the world.

High Resolution Camera for High-Quality Images

The Gear 360 camera comes in high definition, 3,840 pixels by 1,920 pixels, capable of capturing images of up to 30 megapixels. And the bright F2.0 lenses will help users to capture images even in low light conditions.

People can also use the Gear 360 to shoot in a variety of modes, including standard video, photos, time lapse videos or looping videos.

Seamlessly Connecting Your Videos

What makes the Gear 360 really useful is how easily it can be synced to smartphones and other devices. When connected to a smartphone, users can preview their content in real time, while they film. Then, just as easily, that content can be saved to the smartphone or uploaded to social media channels or Google Street View.

The Gear 360 is also ready for all sorts of connectivity options, including WiFi-Direct, Bluetooth, NFC and USB, to make sharing and transferring data incredible easy. A microSD slot makes the memory expandable to 128GB, too.

In addition, the Gear 360 is designed to be compatible with most accessories already on the market, including tripod attachments. It is also compatible with Galaxy devices that work with the Gear VR: Galaxy Note5, Galaxy S6, S6 edge, S6 edge+, S7 and S7 edge.

Changing How Memories Are Made with a Camera On-the-Go, Wherever You Go

The Gear 360 is easy to carry for maximum portability—just 153 grams and 66.7×56.2×60 millimeters—making it convenient to use just about anywhere. And with IP53 certified dust and water resistance, consumers can feel comfortable using it in everyday life, even if there’s a chance it may get wet.

Furthermore, the shutter, settings and shooting modes can be operated directly from the Gear 360 with just a few simple clicks, so it is truly a device designed for the masses.

With the Gear 360, it’s now simple for anyone to shoot video and photos of stunning vistas, spectacular cityscapes and intimate gatherings, immersing viewers in any environment. It’s a small, easy-to-use device that empowers people to capture and share their lives like never before, expanding our horizons by putting our real lives into virtual reality. The evolution of VR is only just beginning, and thanks to Samsung’s Gear 360, now anyone can be at the forefront of this exciting new way of looking at the world.

Gear 360 Videos:

*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.

**Battery performance may vary depending on configuration, and device usage.

Since the Galaxy S series of flagship smartphones was introduced in 2010, these devices have consistently led the way forward for mobile innovation, always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Now the 5.1-inch Galaxy S7 and 5.5-inch Galaxy S7 edge once again have set new standards for the industry, in terms of design, technology and, most importantly, what they can do for consumers.

Setting a New Standard in Style

Following in the footsteps of the Galaxy S6 series, the Galaxy S7 phones are again seamless, elegant devices of metal and glass, now using a process known as 3D Thermoforming to shape the curved glass backing. Combined with a thinner bezel, the ergonomic curves of the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge make for a more comfortable grip than ever, feeling completely natural in one hand. Even the tiny protrusion for the camera has been reduced to just 0.46 millimeters, so the phone is entirely streamlined.

Smartphones are an essential part of people’s lives, and now Samsung ensures that they will keep working even when faced with challenging environments. With a new water and dust resistant design, with an IP68 rating, the Galaxy S7 devices are guaranteed to function normally even when submerged more than a meter deep in water for up to 30 minutes.

In addition, Samsung has added a hybrid SIM card slot, capable of being used with a single SIM card with microSD or a dual SIM, giving the Galaxy S7 expandability up to 200 gigabytes of memory. But despite that added slot, the Galaxy S7 is still dust and water resistant, even without an added slot cover.

A UX Designed for People

Galaxy S7 models are also stylish and seamless on the inside when it comes to the user experience (UX). Now running on Android 6.0 Marshmallow, the Galaxy S7 UX is as powerful as it is easy to use, with enhanced privacy and security functions and optimized controls and management for more efficient battery life. It also works with the ever-growing Galaxy ecosystem, like Samsung Pay, leading security solution Samsung KNOX, and wearables like the Gear S2 and Charm lifestyle band.

The new super AMOLED Always On Displays allow consumers to use their phones for longer and more conveniently than ever, without ever worrying about missing a call or important notification. With Always On, users can constantly see the date and time and get all their notifications, without having the turn on the display and use up valuable battery life. With a variety of attractive designs for the display — date and time, calendars or personalized — Always-On gives consumers a truly seamless experience.

For the Galaxy S7 edge, with its dual curved sides, the Edge UX has also grown even more functional, with more personalization abilities. Apps edge, Tasks edge, People edge and third-party panels together provide incredibly convenient shortcuts so any consumer can quickly and easily get to the apps and contacts that they most need, with just the flick of a finger. The newly added Tasks edge has added additional shortcuts for important tasks, as well as tools like a ruler, compass and flashlight.

Sharp Images Even in Low Light: The Essence of a Camera

To be a great camera, it needs to be able to capture the vitality of a moment, in sharp vivid detail and bright colors. Low-light photography in particular can be a challenge for many cameras, especially smartphone cameras. But with so many of the important events in our lives taking place in low-light conditions—like dining in nice restaurants with loved ones or going out at night with friends—this really is an essential task for cameras, so they can fully document our lives.

Galaxy S6 (left) vs Galaxy S7 (right)

Galaxy S6 (left) vs Galaxy S7 (right)

With aperture F1.7 lens cameras on the front and rear, and larger pixels on the image sensor—increasing 56 percent from the Galaxy S6—the new Galaxy S7’s camera is able to capture brighter and sharper images, even in low-light conditions.

In addition, the Galaxy S7 has the first Dual Pixel camera sensor for smartphone, ensuring incredibly fast and accurate autofocus even in low light conditions. With Dual Pixel technology, every pixel is used for phase detection—as opposed to less than 1 percent of pixels for most smartphones cameras —and two photodiodes capture the light independently, making autofocus time more than twice as fast as the Galaxy S6.

The new camera also has several new features that can create new and fun experiences. For example, the Motion Panorama feature brings the ability to capture motion to traditional panoramic photos, creating a new kind of immersive experience. Hyperlapse makes it easy for anyone to create stunning time-lapse, tracking videos. And selfies are better and brighter now, thanks to features like Selfie Flash and Spotlight.

Optimized for Gaming

Mobile gaming is a market that is constantly growing, and the new Galaxy S7 and S7 edge are the ultimate mobile gaming devices. These smartphones are optimized for the best gaming performance, which means graphics run smoother and users can enjoy a with longer playing time. The cooling system in these phones, with a very thin thermal spreader, keeps devices cool, so gamers can focus on winning.

Also improving usability are features like Game Launcher. Game Launcher allows for additional power savings, taking screenshots during games, turning off non-game alerts, and tracking records and game rankings.

The Galaxy S7 phones are also the first to use Vulkan API, which can significantly reduce CPU loads. Vulkan API is the industry’s first that supports mobile devices as well as desktop and consoles, giving users the ability to play high-performance, graphics-intensive games for even longer.

Enhanced Hardware Across the Board

The Galaxy S7 and S7 edge feature more power and functionality, with the most advance hardware yet. Both models have significantly larger batteries—the Galaxy S7 is 3,000 mAh and the Galaxy S7 edge is 3,600 mAh each model now has enough power to let people watch an entire 13-episode season of their favorite TV show on a single charge, so consumers can concentrate on using their phones longer without worrying about battery life.

Additionally, their wired and wireless battery charging have also been improved, so consumers can power up and keep using their phones faster and easier.

Both smartphones also feature improved CPUs and GPUs, along with RAM that has been expanded to 4GB, the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge have the speed and robustness to take performance to the next level.

Breaking Down All the Barriers

With a great-looking design and powerful performance, the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge let users do more than ever. In nearly every way, these new Galaxy smartphones have broken past the old limits to create the ultimate mobile device experience—transforming technology so people can transform their lives.

Galaxy S7 and S7 edge will hit the shelves starting March 11. Preorders will begin in a matter of days.

*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.

*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.

*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 Co. Ltd today announced the Samsung Gear 360, a 360-degree camera that lets consumers easily create, view and share their favorite experiences through video and still image content. Gear 360 is designed for travel, festive gatherings and every activity in between to provide an all-encompassing visual experience. The new camera leverages the best of the Samsung Galaxy experience so users can become the creator of their own virtual reality content to enjoy through Gear VR.

“Samsung continues to push the boundaries of the mobile experience to extend beyond the smartphone,” said DJ Koh, President of Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics. “On the heels of last year’s Gear VR release, Gear 360 continues to push the limits on immersive content – providing a visual experience that makes capturing and sharing life’s moments even easier.”

Compact Design with High Performance for Every Activity

Samsung Gear 360 is equipped with dual fisheye lenses, which both have 15 megapixel image sensors, giving users the ability to capture high-resolution (3840×1920) 360-degree video that also supports 30 megapixel still images. Users are also able to shoot 180-degree wide angle video and images with only using one side of the camera lens. Built for any time of day, Gear 360 offers Bright Lens F2.0, which creates high resolution images even in low-light conditions, where users can create full panoramic videos.

With a light and compact, spherical shaped design, Gear 360 maximizes portability to film on the go or for indoor activities. Gear 360 features a user-friendly tripod and is also compatible with a wider selection of accessories and mounts currently available on the market.

The Galaxy Experience

Samsung continues to push the boundaries of hardware, software and services to create devices that are designed to improve how consumers connect, share, organize and get more out of life. The company is redefining what is possible, beyond the limits of today’s technology, by introducing a constellation of seamless mobile experiences.

When Gear 360 is synced with a Samsung smartphone, users will be able to preview content in real time when recording. Also, Gear 360 will automatically bring up filmed content for users to view and save on their smartphone or to upload and share directly on social channels including Google Street View. For a real 360 viewing experience, users can simply watch self-created content through Gear VR. All these features will be available through a dedicated mobile application for download from Galaxy Apps, Google Play and PC software for more in-depth editing capabilities.

Gear 360 is compatible with select Samsung smartphones including the newly released Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge, Galaxy S6 edge+, Galaxy Note 5, Galaxy S6 edge and Galaxy S6.

Gear 360 will be available starting Q2 2016 in select countries.

For more information, visit www.samsungmobilepress.com

Samsung Gear 360 Specifications

*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.

**Battery performance may vary depending on configuration, and device usage.

Samsung Electronics announced the newest additions to the Galaxy family of products, Samsung Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge. Created for today’s consumer lifestyle, Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge lead the industry with a refined design, more advanced camera, streamlined software functionality and unparalleled connectivity to a galaxy of products, services, and experiences.

“We believe in a world that is brighter, sharper, more convenient, and more fun. We strive to deliver on that vision with the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge by marrying elegant design with functionality and providing a seamless mobile experience,” said DJ Koh, President of Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics. “We empower consumers with technology to help them get more out of life and will continue to push the frontier of what’s possible.”

Advanced Camera: High Quality Images No Matter the Time of Day or Location

Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge introduce the first Dual Pixel camera on a smartphone, delivering brighter and sharper images, even in low light. Thanks to the revolutionary Dual Pixel technology, brighter lens with wider aperture, and bigger pixel, the camera has a faster shutter speed and a more accurate autofocus even in low-light conditions. Motion Panorama, a new camera mode, brings movement to traditional panoramic photos, giving the user a completely immersive visual experience.

Refined Design and Function

The 5.1-inch Galaxy S7 and 5.5-inch Galaxy S7 edge are constructed with 3D glass and metal – all in a sleek design with durability and ergonomic curves for a comfortable grip. From work to play, the device’s new Always On Display, gives users a simplified, zero touch experience where they don’t need to worry about missing a call or important notification.

Without compromising design, Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge both have increased utility with IP68 water and dust resistance. Edge UX, the advanced edge experience available on Galaxy S7 edge, provides convenience and increased efficiency by creating easy shortcuts to users’ most loved functions such as email, selfie mode, panorama mode or third party applications.

Enhanced Performance: From Charging to Gaming

Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge deliver fast wired and wireless charging technology. Additionally, the hybrid SIM card tray allows users to insert a microSD card for up to 200GB of additional storage and in some select countries, the tray can be used with a dual SIM card.

Samsung also made significant hardware and software updates to optimize gaming performance on Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge. The powerful processer and bigger battery capacity ensure longer playing time, and the internal cooling system keeps the device from overheating. Game Launcher, a new add-on for gamers, allows users to manage battery consumption and minimize notifications. Additionally, users can record their gaming experience or share their screen to play with others. Paired with Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge, Vulkan API gives users the ability to play high-performance graphic games with lower battery consumption.

The Galaxy Experience

Samsung continues to push the boundaries of hardware, software and services to create devices that are designed to improve how consumers connect, share, organize and get more out of life. The company is redefining what is possible, beyond the limits of today’s technology, by introducing a constellation of seamless mobile experiences.

Whether it’s the seamless connection between Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge and the new Gear S2 Classic to monitor fitness, or connecting with Gear VR to “travel” the world – Samsung redefines what’s possible for the mobile experience and beyond.

Beyond the phone, Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge users can also get the best mobile payment service with Samsung Pay; it’s secure, easy-to-use and accepted almost anywhere. Protected by Samsung KNOX, fingerprint scanning and advanced tokenization, Samsung Pay works with NFC (Near Field Communication), MST (Magnetic Secure Transmission) and Barcode technology, making mobile payments available to more merchants and consumers than ever before.

Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge will be available starting mid-March 2016.

Galaxy S7 Specifications

Galaxy S7 edge Specifications

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The Next Galaxy will be one packed with refined features and functions that promise to make you rethink what a phone can do. To get an immersive look at Samsung’s newest Galaxy devices, join the Galaxy Unpacked event from wherever you are in the world via the industry’s first-ever live 360 broadcast.

There are four options for where to watch—from the auditorium, stage left, stage right or from center stage. Pick the one that is right for you, then access the 360 livestream via your PC, mobile device, or Gear VR headset to get a complete view of the event from every angle.

Galaxy Unpacked will begin in three hours and can be livestreamed via http://www.samsung.com/ or http://news.samsung.com/galaxy.

For all the latest news, media resources and content related to The Next Galaxy, check out Samsung Newsroom’s special page.

Pio Schunker, Senior Vice President of Mobile Communications Business at Samsung Electronics, recently sat down for an interview about what he’s learned about Samsung since joining the company last year and what his plans are for the future. In addition to the highlights of that interview, which can be seen in the video above, Schunker also talked about how branding and marketing work at Samsung, and the kind of company that Samsung is at its core.

“The only way to succeed in building a true brand that lasts is to base it on something that is inherently true of the DNA of the company and the very behavior of that company,” said Schunker. “So what I looked at first was what Samsung believes in—which was this notion of engineering, technology, ingenuity, this ability to adapt so quickly to what was happening. That is inherently who Samsung is.”

Schunker joined Samsung early last year and was given two major goals: to turn Samsung into one of the world’s most-loved brands, and to create a singular brand identity that consumers all over the world could understand. With more than 20 years’ experience working on some of the biggest brand names in the world, Schunker said he is drawing on that background, but he also recognizes the unique nature of Samsung that sets the company apart.

One difference is the decentralized way Samsung’s branding works, emphasizing the relationships between regional offices and the company’s headquarters—rather than a top-down, command and control structure, Samsung relies on collaboration with regions to realize its vision. Schunker also noted how, despite being decentralized, Samsung operates extremely quickly—“at the speed of technology,” he said. “Once we nailed down the regions, we moved to execute with the speed that I think only a Samsung can execute at.”

Schunker said he found inspiration in learning about the company’s history and its foundational principles, and learning that “this company wasn’t just a tech company,” he said. “It had actually been created with the intent of being of benefit to its fellow human beings and to mankind. This notion of collective human progress was a crucial foundational element for the company’s creation and point of origination.”

Ultimately, he said, creating Samsung’s message is really about telling the company’s story, in vivid and compelling language that people can fully appreciate. “All I’ve done is taken what is inherently true of the company and made it manifest in a way that is emotionally relevant to today’s consumers,” Schunker added.

As for what is coming next in the process of redefining the brand, Schunker said his aim is nothing less than a long-term shift in how Samsung defines itself. It might take three to five years, but his goal is a long-term rethinking of who Samsung is. “This is a journey we’re on,” he said. “This is how big, bold brands are created and how big brands endure.”

With Schunker’s first branding video, “Unpacking Samsung,” viewers can see the beginning of that rebranding. He calls the film a “celebration” of Samsung’s history and how it is defined by a relentless drive to push boundaries and never be satisfied. But more than just engineering, Samsung’s brand identity is also about how those innovations are transforming people’s lives, giving them purpose and meaning.

Think back to the first time you picked up a mobile phone. What did you make of it? Perhaps you imagined the unlimited possibilities such technology could offer in the future. Or, maybe you were simply content to be able to connect with your loved ones without being connected to a plug in the wall. Either way, it’s safe to say that mobile phones have changed and enhanced the way we live in countless ways over the years.

Such incalculable benefits have inspired Samsung to relentlessly innovate and challenge convention in spite of barriers and difficulties. This video illustrates the most noteworthy moments of Samsung’s dynamic history. Watch to see the progression of Samsung’s innovative mobile devices that have been developed to provide value and convenience to people’s everyday lives.