Europe Welcomes Samsung's Galaxy S Android Smartphone

There has been much talk of the Galaxy S on the web recently, unsurprising considering that it is expected to become Samsung's new Android-based flagship handset. In fact, no leak shortages can be said to have been associated with this electronic, as the most recent report emerged just last week. Now, the time for unofficial rumors has come to an end as the official announcement has been made.

The news is bitter-sweet. While the specification sheet is about as impressive as end-users hoped, and expected, the availability details are not. In short, only European carriers will have this smartphone on shelves and there is, currently, no exact date set for release in the US. In the meantime, however, Samsung expects its newest offspring to “change the way people think about smartphones.”

The most important component of the 4-inch smartphone is, unsurprisingly, the 1GHz ARM applications processor. This is because it will be able to play a variety of audio and video formats, including in High-Definition (HD) 720p resolutions. The 16GB (or 8GB) of internal flash storage should also prove more than intriguing, as should the 512MB of RAM and the external memory slot of up to 32GB. Not only that, but the WVGA Super AMOLED display, with a resolution of 800 x 480, should prove most eye-pleasing, especially when viewing shots taken with the built-in 5.0 megapixel webcam.

The feature set of the Galaxy S also includes an accelerometer, a digital compass, GPS, 3G connectivity, 802.11 b/g/n WiFi, Bluetooth 3.0 and an USB port. As for software, in addition to the Android 2.1 operating system, there is access to the Android market and the Samsung Apps app stores, among other things. Unfortunately, the likely uncompromising price point has not been revealed, although it will probably vary depending on which of the over 100 enlisted carriers is offering it.

“The Android-powered Samsung Galaxy S will set a new standard for smartphones, and the excitement we’ve seen from operators and retailers for this device is testament to that,” said JK Shin, president and head of the Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics. “The Samsung Galaxy S is the perfect device for people in all corners of the world who want that extra edge; to be more effective, productive, better connected, and in tune with their smart life – both personal and professional – all in a very easy and simple way. We’re extremely confident that this device is going to be very successful in every market.”