LG G5, Samsung Galaxy S7 – Quick Thoughts
After both flagship announcements, I am definitely more intrigued by the modular capabilities of the LG G5, so let’s start with the G5.
Two modules have been announced. The LG G5 CAM Plus module and the LG G5 B&O Hi-Fi audio module. Interesting, but, that being said, the price of the accessories, and usefulness of them, remains as questions to be answered. The CAM Plus module sound rather gimmicky, since it only adds a battery pack and some physical controls. Quality of the image remains the same. There’s also the LG Rolling Bot, which hey, resembles TFA BB-8. It has a lens, IR Blaster, speaker, for an awesomely cool surveillance toy that runs around your home.
LG has been rather aggressive year on year, with each generation going off on it’s own direction. The phone itself remains pretty nice, with the premium metal finish, always on display, and finally a fingerprint sensor.
It would be interesting what new modules would pop up next with LG Friends.
On the other hand, Samsung seems to be more of an incremental update, as they improved on last year phone, while focusing on the “smaller” phone category. The S7 is a refinement, with useful features like the waterproof capability, and the much requested microSD support. If you are a Samsung fan, great, since you are getting a similar phone, with the best of 2016 has to offer. However, I am not a big fan of the glass / metal look of the Samsung Galaxy series.
In this extent, both group of fans would be very happy with their respective camp flagship efforts. The Galaxy S7 will be available in Singapore on March 12, while LG G5 would likely be available around April. Personally, I think I will wait out for the LG G5 – the lure of the spherical robot is too strong!
Pre-orders and registration of interest for the Galaxy S7 4G+ and S7 edge 4G+ will commence from 26 February 2016, 10am at all Samsung Experience Stores and telecommunication operators. All successful pre-order customers will receive complimentary Samsung Gear VR worth $148 on 11 March 2016.
Price & Availability In Singapore
The Galaxy S7 4G+ and Galaxy S7 edge 4G+, both with built-in memory of 32GB will be available from 12 March 2016 at recommended retail price of $998 and $1,098 respectively. Both devices will be available in Black Onyx, Gold Platinum and Silver Titanium. To experience the S7, Samsung will be holding a consumer carnival, S7 Delights, at VivoCity Central Court A and B, from 7pm to 10pm on 2 March 2016, and 10am to 10pm from 3 – 6 March 2016. S7 Delights will comprise 4 themed experiential zones, along with a comprehensive product showcase area. These zones will let consumers enjoy a slew of interactive and immersive activities that incorporate the features of Galaxy S7 4G+ and S7 edge 4G+.
The LG G5 availability is still unknown but rumoured for in April. It will be available in four different colours, Silver / Titan / Gold / Pink, and pricing should be similar to the Galaxy S7.