At IFA 2014 earlier today, Samsung unveiled its new phablet flagship – the Samsung GALAXY Note 4. In an unexpected move though, the Korean electronics giant also rolled out a futuristic curved display GALAXY Note Edge, giving us clues on the smartphone future.
A year ago at CES 2013, Samsung previewed a curved OLED prototype phone (codenamed “Youm”), and today it has become a reality.
The Note Edge is, in essence, every bit a Note 4. It’s packed with the same processor, memory and storage, camera, software and heart rate monitor.
It’s also got a quad HD (2560 x 1440) display but a tad smaller at 5.6 inches.
The main difference is the curved, sloping display that wraps along the right side of the phone. It’s slightly thicker overall, and comes with a familiar soft feel faux leather back.
My first impression was literally “gee, this is gimmicky” but somewhat changed my mind when I saw how apps and notifications could work with it.
When developers have access to the SDK, which is expected soon, there could be a world of possibilities to take advantage of the curved display.
The only problem with this concept is that it is built for right-handers. Left-handers would need to turn the phone upside down. Not exactly the most practical.
That aside, the strip of display space on the side bar is useful for displaying notifications, shortcuts, settings, news tickers and mini info widgets. Not super compelling, but it’s very early in the game.
If anything, Samsung has shown what can be done with curved displays on smartphones. It’s the tip of the iceberg, and plenty more to explore and discover. Samsung, being Samsung, is first to the game.
For now, it’s ahead of the game and it gives consumers a little glimpse of the smartphone future.
Nicely done, Sammie.
What do you think of the Note Edge?
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