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Review: Samsung Galaxy S4 16GB

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17th Jul 2013
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The rivalry between Samsung and Apple is fast becoming the new Coke v Pepsi of the tech world, and Samsung's latest S4 certainly gives Apple something to be nervous about.

In my view, Apple will have to pull a few really good tricks out of the bag for the 5s (better than redesigning the iOs interface) to beat this smooth piece of equipment. 

I currently use an iPhone 4s, a phone that is almost two years old. But side-by-side with the S4, it feels older and, dare I say it, outdated. 

The S4 may take some getting used to for those used to using smaller phones. However, the large screen and oblong shape, along with the sleek black screen and slim, smooth plastic finish gives it a very professional look and feel.

I tried out the 16GB version, which boasts (and I don't say boasts lightly) a 1.9GHz quad core processor, plus 13MP (megapixel) back and 2MP front camera with full HD in both playback and recording. 

The screen resolution will knock your socks off - or at least impress you somewhat - with images taken from the 13MP camera looking even sharper and visually stunning than, for example, an iPhone 4s. 

The Galaxy S4 is also 4G capable, which is a plus for those lucky enough to be in 4G areas.

The interface isn't entirely new, but does work well, and is built on top of Andriod Jelly Bean 4.2 which is a signficant upgrade from the previous version.

But let's get down to brass tacks. While it's definitely an object one could have a lot of fun with as an almost tablet-smartphone hybrid, it costs roughly the same as an iPhone 5. If accountants are going to buy this phone, it'll be for business purposes (and for looking at AccountingWEB and appreciating our new responsive bulletins, obviously). So, what can the Galaxy S4 offer you as a professional? 

Getting used to typing - text messages, emails - can take a while, especially for those with less than steady of fingers. The letters are too close together for my liking, but if you can get used to the switch from physical letters to an iPhone's on-screen keypad, then you can get used to this. 

The lock screen takes getting used to as well, since you have to swipe an area of the screen at the bottom to unlock.

The phone comes with some impressive native apps, from the usual email synch apps, to a nice-looking calendar, health apps, including 'walking mate', a news service app, Google Plus, Flipboard, Trip Adviser and Dropbox. 

Others can be purchased from the Android store and would definitely 'make' the phone: Google Drive, Outlook, Adobe would all look and operate magically on this speedy processor and HD screen.

While not new, the infared blaster on the top of the phone is useful in an office setting, too, as it allows you to control the air conditioning, DVD player, TV (handy for presentations).

Making calls has also been enhanced with the smart dial function. Instead of scrolling through your contacts, just type, for example 7-2-2 for R-A-C on your screen and the number will appear. There's also quite a useful function that allows you to adapt call sound (i.e. make it softer, clearer). 

Messaging, apart from the close-together keyboard keys, is also quite easy to use and Samsung has included ChatOn, their version of WhatsApp or Viber. However, I can't see it overtaking those popular messaging apps anytime soon.

I'm the type of person to whom aesthetics and design are also important; if you're using it for business, you need to have something that looks the part too. 

The weather widget changes your home screen background to reflect the skies outside, while with a flick of the finger your next featured app will appear. 

As far as appearances go, the plastic cover looks pretty sturdy, but the screen may be prone to scratches or dents - so if you are opting for this phone, it might be a good idea to buy a good, strong case for it. 

Samsung Galaxy s4

What we liked

● Both hard and software aesthetically pleasing
● 4G-ready
● 13MP camera 

What we didn’t like

● Keyboard keys too close together for our liking
● The outside could be a bit more dent-resistant (although we haven't tested that out!)

For more info, visit Vodafone.co.uk

Vodafone UK BusinessThis review was conducted using a trial Vodafone UK Business packageThe Samsung Galaxy S4 is available on pay monthly plans from Vodafone from £37 per month.

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Replies (3)

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By petersaxton
22nd Jul 2013 09:48

EE plan

My wife got this phone on an EE 24 month plan and it's £20 + VAT per month. I am not sure about the allowance but it's either a lot or unlimited.

She loves it.

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FT
By FirstTab
22nd Jul 2013 19:05

Video

Any chance of video reviews? This just does not work for me. 

After reading I then go to you tube.

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By petersaxton
23rd Jul 2013 09:46

Video

there's lots of video reviews of it on youtube

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