In the short time leading up to a new flagship device, the likelihood of a credible leak tends to skyrocket. With mere hours before the Samsung Galaxy S IV is unveiled, 19 high quality photos and 4 videos have made their way into the world. The pictures have excellent lighting, well chosen angles, and spec-rich text bubbles - there is no denying that they look like shots for the Chinese market. The videos, posted by istevencom on YouTube, clearly demonstrate features of the new handset. These new leaks corroborate some of the previously seen cases and pictures.
At this point, we should consider this a spoiler alert. If you want to save any surprises for the presentation, give up reading right now. Let's start with the images.
Here are the specs:
- Exynos 5, 1.8 GHz 8-core processor
- 2 GB RAM
- 16 GB Storage + MicroSD slot
- 4.99" 1080P display
- 13 MP rear camera, 2 MP front camera
- Dimensions: 140.1mm x 71.8mm x 7.7 mm
- Weight: 138 grams
- Dual SIM card slots
- Android 4.2.1
Of course, these images are targeted at the Chinese market and some details may change for the US, particularly the Dual SIM slots. The photos also give us a great view of the back and bezel design, which have taken on a kevlar-like appearance.
Now for the videos. Each one gives us a brief demonstration of some new features the S IV should be equipped with. The first two demos illustrate that the screen can detect a finger hovering at short range and that gestures above the screen can be used to control the web browser, albeit unreliably. The third delves into an addition to the eye-tracking technology which can now pause video when the user turns away. Finally, we are treated to a look at the new lockscreen, featuring another subtle use of the hover detection.
Obviously, all of this stuff could be a very elaborate prank, but it's hard to imagine why. The handset looks pretty great, with every feature and spec in line with other rumors for this year's flagship. The official announcement is only a few hours away, but who is ready to commit to buying this phone right now?