Samsung has officially announced its latest Galaxy series: the Galaxy A8 (2018) and A8+ (2018). The new premium mid-range series is slated for a January 2018 release.
After several leaks on the web, it looks like Samsung has had to “unpack” the new A series earlier than expected. Save the thunder for the Galaxy S9 later then?
Samsung continues to pack flagship design and features into its A series devices. The Galaxy A8 (2018) series boasts an Infinity Display, IP68 water and dust resistance, and for the first time—dual front cameras with Live Focus.
Made from sleek durable glass and metal frame, the Galaxy A8 (2018) is super sleek and smooth, and houses an immersive 18.5:9 Infinity Display. The Galaxy A8 (2018) features a 5.6-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED (1080×2220) display while the A8+ (2018) packs a 6-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED (1080×2220) display.
Like what we’ve seen on the flagship Galaxy S8, S8+ and Note8, the fingerprint sensor now moves to the rear, mounted below the main shooter.
In the official release, Samsung cheekily fails to mention the specific processor that runs the new A8 series, preferring to disclose “Octa Core (2.2GHz Dual + 1.6GHz Hexa).” This points to the Exynos 7885, but availability may differ in different markets.
The A8 gets 4GB of RAM with 32GB or 64GB storage options, while the bigger A8+ gets a bumped up 6GB RAM with 64GB of storage. Both support microSD storage expansion.
Oddly, Samsung has chosen to give the dual-camera treatment on the front of the new A8 series. The front features a 16MP f/1.9 + 8MP f/1.9 camera setup that supports Live Focus. Expect some very bokehlicious portrait photos, and thanks to Live Focus you can adjust the depth of fiel before or after you take the picture.
The rear camera, while a single unit, is a commendable 16MP f/1.7 with PDAF. It gains electronic image stabilisation which Samsung calls “video digital image stabilisation.” It also gets a hyperlapse feature.
Like the previous A series, the A8 (2018) series offers an Always On Display, Samsung Pay (MST + NFC) and supports Bixby. It’s also the first in the A Series to support Samsung’ Gear VR.
The Galayx A8 by the way, carries a 3,000mAh battery that supports fast charging, while its bigger sibling sports a 3,500mAh unit.
The Galaxy A8 (2018) and A8+ (2018) will be available in three colours: Black, Gold and Orchid Gray. Both will be available in January 2018.
No pricing has been revealed yet, although one might wonder if it will breach MYR2,000 for the first time?
For more information, visit www.samsung.com/my/mobile-galaxya-2018/
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