Samsung Unpacked 2024: What to Expect at the Paris Showcase
Samsung Unpacked 2024 is set to begin on Wednesday at 6 a.m. PT / 9 a.m. ET. The early start time benefits our West Coast audience, as this year's event takes place in Paris, where it kicks off at 1 p.m. CET. Interestingly, Paris is also gearing up to host the Summer Olympics just two weeks later, an event that sees Samsung as a major sponsor.
As in past events, foldables are anticipated to steal the spotlight at Samsung's showcase. The company has followed a six-month flagship release schedule for several years. Since retiring the Note line in 2022, this has resulted in new Galaxy S devices being unveiled in January and February, with Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip models making their debut in the summer. This year’s Unpacked is expected to be particularly packed with exciting announcements.
Galaxy AI Highlights and Galaxy Ring Insights
In addition to foldables, Galaxy AI is tipped to take center stage at this Unpacked, having already made a substantial appearance during the Galaxy S24 event. That event also introduced the Galaxy Ring, which was further showcased at MWC in Barcelona a month later. Attendees can look forward to comprehensive information about this innovative wearable and other accessories like Galaxy Buds.
You can watch Galaxy Unpacked live .
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip 6: What We Know
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold and Galaxy Z Flip 6 are generating significant buzz, with numerous leaks already circulating. Samsung excels at creating stellar hardware while inadvertently revealing details about its upcoming devices.
The company’s commitment to foldable technology has shifted public perception over the years. As questions about durability and market interest emerged with initial generations, Samsung has successfully established foldables as a legitimate product category.
Both new devices will likely feature the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor unveiled by Qualcomm last fall. The Galaxy S24 series was among the first to harness this powerful chip, joining devices from OnePlus and Xiaomi, with Vivo also showcasing a foldable equipped with the same technology in March.
The Galaxy Fold 6 is rumored to have undergone key design changes, making it sleeker and lighter than its predecessor, now with a 22:9 aspect ratio. This update aligns it more closely with outstanding foldable devices from competitors like Google and OnePlus. Speculation also suggests enhancements like a brighter display and a new aluminum frame, along with an upgraded battery for the Galaxy Fold.
Exploring Galaxy AI Features
You’ve likely noticed that regulations now mandate phone manufacturers to dedicate a significant portion of their events to discussing AI innovations. Samsung previously allocated considerable time to AI during its winter Unpacked, showcasing new camera capabilities and its Circle to Search collaboration with Google. Initially, Google carried this momentum at I/O in May, followed by Apple’s focus on AI during WWDC.
One of Samsung’s primary challenges will be distinguishing Galaxy AI from the extensive Gemini features set to debut on Android. Thus far, specifics remain limited, with hints of new translation capabilities for WhatsApp expected.
Galaxy Ring Pricing and Release Expectations
Samsung surprised many during its last Unpacked event with the unveiling of the Galaxy Ring, a fresh entrant into the competitive wearable market historically led by brands like Oura. When Galaxy Ring was announced, Oura's CEO Tom Hale remarked on the significance of such established companies entering the space, seeing it as validation for their market.
At this Unpacked, Samsung is anticipated to reveal substantial details about the Galaxy Ring, including its release date and pricing—rumored to be around $300. This places it in direct competition with Oura, yet questions remain about how much of that cost may be associated with a premium health software subscription, similar to Oura's model.
Additional Announcements to Anticipate
Samsung's earbuds have typically favored compact designs. However, the company is shifting to include stems and a new oblong charging case. Given recent leaks, it's likely that many will inquire if these new earbuds are indistinguishable from AirPods. The ongoing leaks and subsequent removal of images from social media platforms suggest we’re onto something significant.
Additionally, images have emerged of what appears to be the Galaxy Watch 7. Samsung has already confirmed this device’s upcoming release alongside a pre-show announcement of a revamped BioActive sensor. The new sensor aims to enhance health tracking, focusing on upgraded photodiodes and an optimal arrangement of color LEDs.
With the Galaxy Watch and the new Ring, Samsung is likely to devote ample time to promoting its health and fitness ecosystem. In light of recent patent challenges faced by Apple, Samsung appears poised to capitalize on this opportunity.
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