Samsung Galaxy S review

Looks like an iPhone. But now tastes like Gingerbread

Samsung Galaxy S
The Samsung Galaxy S

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Samsung galaxy s review

There's no doubt that the Samsung Galaxy S has fallen from the top of Samsung's portfolio to second place now that the Galaxy S2 is here.

But as we've mentioned, that means that you're likely to get some great deals on a handset that is still one of the most advanced Android models available at the moment. It may not be dual-core, but few people will notice or care at £20 per month.

Samsung is obviously confident, and we're pleasantly surprised that it has upgraded it to Gingerbread, because it's rare to see a manufacturer give an Android device TWO upgrades following launch (we won't hold our breath for Ice Cream sandwich, though).

It's still being heavily marketed in phone shops, and we think that as prices begin to fall, the Samsung Galaxy S can only continue to generate huge sales until stocks eventually run dry.

We liked

We can't underestimate just how much of a bargain you may be able to get with this phone. It's not the most advanced Samsung Android handset out there, but it was just a few months ago. And now operators have the Galaxy S2 to promote, they'll be keen to get rid of their Samsung Galaxy S stocks – which can only be good news for the consumer.

Form-wise it's incredibly light, and yet, while plasticky, feels like a premium device. Android is the most popular operating system on the planet right now and we love the fact that you can customise almost every aspect of it.

That Super AMOLED screen is still beautiful to look at, and still has wow-factor down the pub (although you better hope nobody has an S2 to compare it to).

And with every form of connectivity you can shake a dongle at – plus effectively being a full, free sat nav unit – the Samsung Galaxy S is a great handset for first-timers and social media old timers alike.

We disliked

We sound like a broken record, but the omission of a flash for the Samsung Galaxy S's camera is unforgivable, and could be a real deal-breaker for some. It's inconceivable that it didn't include one, yet did include so many advanced features.

The battery is a real improvement from before, but remember this is all relative, and you'll get much better power from a non-smartphone if just making calls and sending the odd text is your bag.

We also wish there were some more video options, because it feels at times like it takes second place to the camera.

And the customisation options within the SMS app are a bit of a letdown. Plus, if you're clumsy (especially if you're right-handed), you may be prone to dropping this slippy little blighter, so bear that in mind.

Verdict

Samsung obviously sees a future in the Galaxy S line, which is why it is continuing to push an 'old' handset when the new one is selling by the truckload.

There are a few faults, but on the whole it's a cracking bit of kit, and you really could do a lot worse. You can't do much better for the price, put it that way.

If the Apple iPhone is the 'Jesus Phone' as many fanboys suggest, the Samsung Galaxy S is definitely one of the disciples. But that's at the very least. It could very well be the second coming of an already top-end phone.