The Samsung Galaxy S3 Review: A Comprehensive Look at This Anticipated Phone Launch
Hey guys, it's Austin here, and today I'm excited to share with you my review of the Samsung Galaxy S3 for T-Mobile. As one of the most anticipated phone launches of the year, there's a lot riding on this device, so let's dive in and see if it meets our expectations.
First, let's talk about the hardware. The Galaxy S3 comes equipped with a 4.8-inch Super AMOLED HD screen, which boasts a resolution of 1280x720 pixels. While technical jargon aside, it's clear that the display is huge and excellent-looking. The text is very clear, and colors really pop thanks to the 306 pixel-per-inch screen. This size gives you tons of room for content, making it a great option if you're coming from something smaller like the iPhone.
In terms of design, the Galaxy S3 comes in two colors: blue and white. I have the Pebble Blue variant, which features a metal-like texture finish that adds a touch of sophistication to the device. The speaker grille, notification LED, proximity sensor, and light sensors are all located at the top of the phone, while the physical home button and capacitive back and menu keys sit below. One notable feature is the placement of the sleep/wake button on the right edge of the phone, which might take some getting used to for those accustomed to other manufacturers' designs.
The left side of the phone features a slight curvature, making it comfortable to hold in one hand. The power button and volume controls are located at the top, while the SIM card slot is found on the bottom. Overall, the build quality is good but not spectacular, which might be a disappointment for some users who were expecting something more premium.
Moving on to the specs, the Galaxy S3 is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 System-on-Chip with a dual-core 1.5GHz processor and Adreno 225 graphics, just like in the US version of the HTC One X. What sets it apart is the whopping 2GB of RAM, which ensures that apps tend to stay open forever without any issues. The device also features a 1.9-megapixel front-facing camera, which might not be the most impressive in terms of quality, but still gets the job done for Skype, Google+ chats, and checking your hair out in the mirror.
Now, let's talk about the software. The Galaxy S3 runs on Android 4.0.3 (ICS), which brings a host of new features and improvements to the table. The TouchWiz interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, with a range of preloaded apps that enhance the overall user experience. One notable feature is the presence of NFC-enabled stickers called "TouchWiz Stickers," which can be used to launch apps, make calls, or change settings when tapped.
In terms of performance, the Galaxy S3 is incredibly responsive, rivaling some of the best phones I've ever tested. The device is perfect for those who want a snappy and smooth experience, with no lag or stuttering to speak of. Whether you're browsing the web, checking email, or playing games, this phone delivers.
The camera, which is 1.9 megapixels, might not be the most impressive in terms of quality, but it still takes excellent photos, especially considering its price point. The Burst Shot feature allows for rapid-fire photography, and the ability to snap 6-megapixel stills while recording 1080p video adds an extra layer of flexibility.
The Galaxy S3 is available on all major US carriers, including AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, and US Cellular. I'm taking a look at the T-Mobile version, which features HSPA+ connectivity, whereas the rest come with LTE. In my testing, the device performed perfectly well, holding onto signals very well even in areas with poor T-Mobile service.
Finally, let's talk about the battery life. While it might not last as long as some other phones on the market, the Galaxy S3 still delivers a respectable day of usage without any issues. Whether you're using it for basic tasks like browsing or more demanding activities like gaming, this phone should meet your needs.
Overall, the Samsung Galaxy S3 is an impressive device that has surpassed my expectations in many ways. While there are some minor areas where Android falls short compared to iOS, the screen is great, speed is top-notch, battery life is good enough, and the camera is excellent. If you're looking for a reliable and feature-packed phone without breaking the bank, look no further than the Galaxy S3.