What are some of the features?
We would probably advise you to check out the other information on this page. We have detailed specification information, a full review of both the hardware and the software and some summary stuff at the top in case you’re in a hurry. However, we always answer the questions you ask so : The SGS4 comes equipped with Wi-Fi, a 13 megapixel camera, a 2 megapixel front camera, 2GB RAM storage, NFC, 1080p video capabilities, up to 128 GBs worth of internal storage, Bluetooth and 4G support. And a bunch of other stuff you’ll never use.
In what ways does the Galaxy S4 differ to the S3?
The S4 is a thinner, more lightweight phone. It looks similar to the S3, but has different software that is more specialized – for example the SHealth application. The display is larger than the S3’s and the S4’s battery capabilities are stronger which is a good thing because the battery on my S3 was shit. The S4 also has a faster internal processor, and the S3 camera was 8 megapixels, as opposed to the S4’s 13. Don’t write the S3 off though. It’s a cracking phone ( despite my experience with the battery ) and it might be one of the best value Android handsets on the market. We’ve got tonnes and tonnes of comparison information on the Galaxy S4. We’ve put it side by side with most other phones on the market. You can find out about that, here : Samsung Galaxy S4 Vs Top Selling Phones
Are there ways to improve the life of my battery?
Sure. The first thing I’d recommend, if you’re worried about it, is to do what I did when I got an S4. I bought a second battery. One of the great things about the Galaxy range of phones is you can swap batteries over. You won’t get that facility with an iPhone.
More tactical changes to preserve your battery include an awareness of the reality : When you’re operating your phone, you’re making a choice between having a long lasting battery and the number of functions you choose to use. If you’re constantly using the Wi-Fi or sync functions, you’re going to drain the battery on your phone relatively quickly.
Some options to help preserve your battery power are using less brightness for your screen, do not leave networks running, and receiving less updates from your social media sites.
And remember, Samsung have figured this out. If you buy a Samsung Galaxy S5, it has 2 different battery saving modes. The most severe of these turns everything off on your phone, including the colour of your screen and gives you days – I am not kidding – days – of charge from the last 20% of battery life.
What is being rooted and what does it mean to me?
This is an interesting question from an Australian. I’m from the UK originally and it’s possible that this sort of enquiry could be misunderstood. From a technical point of view within the context we’re discussing, rooting occurs when users unlock their phones and gain access to functions on their phone that the manufacturer did not plan for. We don’t recommend rooting ( within this context ) and you should be prepared for the consequences that come with it like losing all your data and having to throw your phone away because it won’t work any more.
Which OS does this Android use?
Upon release, the S4 was using the Jelly Bean 4.2.2 OS. Since then, the S4 has been updated to the Android 4.4 KitKat.
How does the S4 compare to the iPhone 4S?
The S4 bests the 4S in almost every spec. category. The S4 offers 17 hours of talk time versus 8 for the 4S. The S4 is easier to operate with one hand. With the larger screen, users who enjoy gaming, browsing the web and watching videos will prefer the S4. The S4 also offers more options for users who wish to customize their phone – personalization is a real strength of Android.
What is eye tracking on the S4 and how does it work?
Eye tracking technology allows the phone to follow your eye movements and adjust accordingly. When web browsing on the S4, you can tilt the screen up or down and have the page scroll in time with your movements. The S4 is also equipped with SmartPause, which will pause a video you’re watching as soon as your eyes look away from it. When you turn back to the screen, the video resumes. Clever stuff but the truth is that this does not work perfectly and my view is it’s mostly a gimmick at this stage.