Samsung debuts biometric scanner-enabled Galaxy S5

Samsung Electronics’, the world’s largest maker of mobile handsets, has taken the lid off its highly anticipated Galaxy S5 smartphone, adding a new Galaxy device to its range of products in this category. The fifth generation of the Galaxy S series was unveiled at an ‘Unpacked’ event during the 2014 edition of the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona and will be available for purchase in 150 countries, including Nigeria, on April 11.

[pull_quote_center]The Galaxy S5 has a new fingerprint sensor, which is integrated with the device’s home button. The finger scanner will provide consumers with a safe, biometric screen-locking feature and also make their mobile payment experience more secure.[/pull_quote_center]

Powered by a 2.5GHz quad-core processor, the Galaxy S5 sports a 5.1-inch super AMOLED display, making it slightly larger than its predecessor, the Galaxy S4.  The device also boasts an upgraded 16-megapixel camera, new fitness tracking features, a heart rate scanner and is dust and water resistant. The highlight of the Galaxy S5 is a new fingerprint sensor, which is integrated with the device’s home button. The finger scanner will provide consumers with a safe, biometric screen-locking feature and also make their mobile payment experience more secure.

Speaking at the unveiling of the device, Director of Hand Held Products, Samsung Electronics West Africa, Mr. Emmanouil Revmatas said the new Galaxy S5 offers consumers a refined experience with the added advantage of innovation on essential features for everyday use.

“With the Galaxy S5, Samsung is going back to basics to focus on delivering the capabilities that matter most to consumers. A great number of innovations have been injected into the device towards delivering new value to enhance their lives and also provide them with the ultimate communication experience. The Galaxy S5 represents an iconic design with essential and useful features to focus on delivering the ultimate smartphone in the market today through people-inspired innovation,” he said. He added that the device will set the benchmark for how a smartphone can be integrated into daily life.

The new Galaxy S5 features a perforated pattern on the back cover creating a stylish and modern look. It comes in an array of colors, including Charcoal Black, Shimmery White, Electric Blue and Copper Gold. The device is expected to become the best-selling smartphone in the world once it goes on sale in April.

Samsung also expanded its industry-leading wearable device line with Samsung Gear Fit, a breakthrough and futuristic fitness tracker that offers the convenience of Samsung Gear technology with comprehensive fitness tools that empower consumers to stay physically active without sacrificing personal style or mobile connectivity. The wrist-worn device incorporates a built-in heart rate monitor and a lightweight swappable strap, alongside its signature curved AMOLED screen. The Gear Fit will also be available globally from April.

Speaking of the Gear Fit, Revmatas said: “Samsung understands that the next generation of wearable mobile solutions must directly reflect the diverse interests and needs of consumers. In response, our Gear product portfolio continues to expand with unique devices for a wide range of lifestyles, including the new Gear Fit, which is designed to help consumers live fit and active lives without forfeiting their ability to stay connected on the go.”