Samsung Galaxy Note 2
BERLIN, Germany--Samsung has finally unveiled its highly anticipated Galaxy Note 2 (II) smartphone at the company's Mobile Unpacked event here in Europe. As expected, it features the latest Google Android 4.1 software (Jelly Bean) and is powered by an upgraded 1.6GHz quad-core processor. We got some hands-on time with the device and here are our early impressions, as well as comparison shots with the original Galaxy Note.
Design
The Galaxy Note 2 has adopted a refreshingly new design offering a brushed-metal finish in white and gray colors. Its 5.5-inch Super AMOLED screen is also marginally larger than its predecessor's 5.3-inch version, albeit at a slightly lower 1,280 x 720-pixel resolution. Even with such a huge panel, there is very minimal increase in the overall size and weight for this new model.
(Credit: Philip Wong/CNET Asia)
Gone is the filmy plastic rear, which has been replaced by a stiffer brushed-metal piece. In general, we find the new Galaxy Note II quite ergonomic and comfortable to use.
(Credit: Philip Wong/CNET Asia)
Samsung has slightly tweaked the placements of the ports and buttons as seen in the following comparison shots. The Note 2 is the one on top in these images.
(Credit: Philip Wong/CNET Asia)
(Credit: Philip Wong/CNET Asia)
(Credit: Philip Wong/CNET Asia)
(Credit: Philip Wong/CNET Asia)
Samsung has included a longer and thicker stylus, known as the Advanced S Pen, supposedly to offer a more pen-like experience with better grip and precision. New functions such as Air View have been introduced for this accessory, too. More details on that later.
(Credit: Philip Wong/CNET Asia)
New hardware
Aside from a powerful processor, Samsung has also included other significant hardware enhancements. Most notable is the onboard storage, which now comes in 16GB, 32GB and 64GB capacities--the original didn't come in a 64GB version. To take clearer photos in low-light conditions, the rear and front cameras are both equipped with backside illuminated (BSI) sensors. Matching these improved components is a 3,100mAh removable battery with fast-charging support, though an estimated battery life has not been provided by Samsung.
| Model | Galaxy Note | Galaxy Note 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Android OS | 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) | 4.1 (Jelly Bean) |
| Screen size | 5.3 inches Super AMOLED | 5.5 inches Super AMOLED |
| Resolution | 1,280 x 800 | 1,280 x 720 |
| Processor | 1.4GHz dual-core | 1.6GHz quad-core |
| Storage | 16GB internal storage; microSD card slot | 16/32/64GB internal storage; microSD card slot |
| Camera | 2-megapixel (MP) front; 8MP rear | 2MP BSI front; 8MP BSI rear |
| Connectivity options | 4G; Wi-Fi; Bluetooth; A-GPS | |
| Battery | 2,500mAh | 3,100mAh |
| Dimension | 146.85 x 82.95 x 9.65mm | 151.1 x 80.5 x 9.4mm |
| Weight | 178g | 180g |
New software
Software-wise, the chaebol claims that the Galaxy Note 2 is capable of delivering PC-like multitasking. Not only can users open multiple windows from one screen, switching among apps is easier since they can be stacked for selection, too. By "hovering" the Advanced S Pen over the screen, you can also easily preview and copy content between apps such as the photo viewer and email client. Pulling the stylus out of its silo will display a contextual page for users to select different apps such as the note pad.
Performance
To test the performance of the original Galaxy Note versus Galaxy Note 2, we have installed Aurora Softworks' Quadrant benchmark and here are the results. Please note that this is tested on a preproduction model and is not representative of the final retail set.
(Credit: Philip Wong/CNET Asia)
(Credit: Philip Wong/CNET Asia)
As you can see, the new Galaxy Note is considerably faster than its predecessor and scores well against the HTC One X powered by a quad-core Tegra3 processor.
Here is a quick test of the low-light photo capturing performance of the BSI sensor. Take note that the shot was taken through a window with the ISO setting configured to auto. While there is some graininess in the shot, the Galaxy Note 2 is able to deliver a relatively sharp image with good shadow detail, as well as maintaining proper exposure between the bright and dark sections.
(Credit: Philip Wong/CNET Asia)
Outlook
The Samsung Galaxy Note 2 will be launched starting from October in selected countries in Europe, Asia and Middle East at around US$800 for the 3G model.
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