Galaxy S4 Guides

Android

Top 10 new or improved features in Jelly Bean 4.3 update for your Samsung Galaxy S4

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galaxy S4 Jelly Bean 4.3 updateMore and more users are getting the Android 4.3 (Jelly Bean 4.3 ) update for the Galaxy S4. You may wonder what the new features are, because there are almost no changes in the appearance.

In this post, I will share with you the top 10 new or improved features you will find after the Jelly Bean 4.3 update.  Some features may be what you want; some may be not.

10. New: Samsung Wallet comes, even if you don’t like it

Samsung Wallet is now pre-installed after Jelly Bean 4.3 update for your Galaxy S4.

Do not confuse Samsung Wallet with Google Wallet.  Samsung Wallet is not a digital wallet and  you can’t use it for payment. In fact, Samsung Wallet works just like Apple’s Passbook for iOS: it wants to be a one-stop destination for all your tickets, loyalty cards, membership cards and coupons.

You can actually get this app from Google Play store if you own any of the other 4 support devices: Galaxy Note, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy S3, and Galaxy Note 3.

The review of this app is mixed. But overall, if you want something like passbook in iDevices, Samsung Wallet probably is a good option.

9.  New: Samsung KNOX rules your Galaxy S4

Samsung KNOX is a container (something like virtual machine)  for enterprise users.  You now have two  independent environments:  personal (where you control everything and share whatever you want) and  corporate (where your IT admins can set rules and access the data in the container).

For most consumers, this is probably not so useful.  For some avid hackers, this can be disastrous because of the secure and trusted boot, which prevent rooting and  flushing.

8. New: Galaxy Gear Support

Samsung Galaxy Gear is neither a matured  nor an innovative gadget.  But the … Read the rest

Galaxy S4 frequently asked questions (FAQs): official Samsung Guide

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Galaxy-S4-FAQsUpdate: Now you can read thsi Galaxy S4 FAQ guide (Galaxy S4 Customer Consultant Guide)  directly in this post. 

Galaxy S4 is packed with so many features, therefore it is not strange that a lot of owners have some sorts of problems or questions.

Although the S4 Owners Manual provides valuable guides and info, it is impossible to cover all aspects. Even some technicians in Samsung Service Centre may also have some doubts on some features and functions.  So, Samsung compiled 140 FAQs for Galaxy S4 owners. The documentation is intended for staff in service centres. Actually, almost all flagship Android models have the Customer Consultant Guide.

Anyway, in this guide, there are 140 questions and answers, which cover almost all S4 specific features. It is a good reading material if you are still struggling with your S4.

The PDF version is provided in this post for you to download and read offline.

We also put individual FAQ into each feature page. So, you will get detailed info of each feature in each feature page. The following feature pages were updated or will be updated in next 24 hours:

We are also trying to make an online page for these FAQs together with the User Guide. Once this is done by the end of this month, you can read all documentations online instead of downloading PDF files.

Here is link for download the PDF version of this Galaxy S4 FAQs (right click mouse button, choose save link as): Galaxy-S4-Customer-Consultant-Guide-FAQs

If you have any questions, or need help, … Read the rest

Google Play Store Edition Galaxy S4: is it better or worse than the original S4?

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gogole-play-edition-galaxy-s4As announced in Google I/O 2013, Google edition of Galaxy S4 now is available  for order on Google Play Store (US only currently). You can get one at $649 with free shipping.

Google edition Galaxy S4 comes with stock Android 4.2.2. It means it is a vanilla version of Android like that in Nexus devices. The controversial TouchWiz skin  was stripped, and the stock UI was loaded. So, users will get the “pure” Android experience without bloatwares and hacks from manufactures. The 16GB Google Play version of Galaxy S4 has a usable storage of 12.65GB; while the original one you get from the carriers has only about 9GB.

Sizable Nexus users have been enjoyed such benefits for long time.  Nexus devices receive the update from Google directly. This means once the new version of Android is announced, the Nexus users will get it just in a couple of days.  However, for Samsung Galaxy S, S2 and S3 users, they have to wait at least 6 months to get such updates. In some regions, the update may be not available at all.

Another benefit enjoyed by  Nexus users is that there are no bloatwares from manufacturers and carriers. such bloatware not only eats the precious internal storage, but also may degrade the performance of the handset. Most of the bundled apps are not needed for most users.

Of course, some customizations from the manufactures  do add extra functions and features. For example, most of the prominent (useful or useless) features in Galaxy s4 as explained in the S4 features page are only available from Samsung.

Google edition of Galaxy S4 has no differences with  the original S4 when we talk about the hardware. Both comes  5″  full HD AMOLED display,  Qualcomm Snapdragon 600,  2GB RAM, 13MP/2MP … Read the rest

How to install Flash on Galaxy S4 (and make it work!)?

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enable flash on galaxy s4

Update: After KitKat (4.4) update, you must use the unofficial APK file to make Flash player work on Galaxy S4 again. Please read Part 3 for details on the Flash Player APK file for KitKat.

Update 2: If you updated Galaxy S4 to Android Lollipop, please follow this guide to make Flash work on your Galaxy S4.

Once you get your hands on your brand new Galaxy S4, you may encounter the Flash issue. Galaxy S4 does not support Flash!

Even after you side-load the Flash (see below on how to do this),  neither the stock browser (Internet app) nor  the bundled Chrome recognize Flash.

For Chrome for Android, we all know Flash has been never supported. Do not confuse this Chrome with the Chrome on your desktop.

But for the stock browser, it is quite strange, because the stock browser (with Jelly Bean 4.2) in Nexus 7, Nexus 4 and Nexus 10 all work charmingly with Flash!.  For Jelly Bean 4.1, there are no issues even on Samsung’s own handsets, for example, Galaxy S4, Galaxy Note 2. What’s wrong?

Apparently, the stock browser in Galaxy S4 was altered by Samsung to block Flash plugin and other plugins as well.

So, to make Flash work on your S4, we need both Flash player (which is not pre-installed) and a third-party browser.

Before jumping to how to do this, let’s get some background information on why Flash has been an issue for Jelly Bean.

Flash was banned by Apple on iOS! The official explanations include: 1) Flash is not open (same as iOS); 2). There are better alternatives; 3). Reliability, security and performance issues; 4).Battery life issues; 5).Flash is not for touch screen; 6). Flash is a cross platform development tool.  Actually, the last one is what Apple fears… Read the rest

Galaxy S4 or Optimus G Pro? Here is the comparison

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s4-vs-optimus-g-proLG is not a new player in smartphone, but it never delivered a memorable products until Nexus 4, a collaboration with Google. Nexus 4 has been one of the most desired Android phones. But due to limited coverage on devices in Play Store, many potential buyers do not have the chance to order one.

Instead of bringing Nexus 4 to more markets, LG chose to release an own branded LG Optimius worldwide. It is a smart move to build own brand and this is probably also the purpose of Google to avoid the monopolization of Samsung in Android market.  Optimus G shares many similar design elements found in Nexus 4. The build quality is  incredible.

However, Optimus G is a bit outdated now, and its direct competitor is Galaxy S3. So, this year,  during the Mobile World Congress 2013, LG announced the Optimus G Pro. It seems LG is a bit confused on the positioning of this device. The 5.5-inch screen puts it in the phablet segment; however, lack of stylus obviously disadvantage itself against Galaxy Note 2. You may refer to  the comparison of Optimus G Pro and Galaxy Note 2.

Very likely, LG also expected this Optimus G Pro to be a rival to Galaxy S4. Will this one-stone-kill-two-birds product strategy work? At least, based on our review, it lost the battle against Galaxy Note 2. Now let’s compare it with Galaxy S4.

Design and build quality

Optimus G’s design and build quality is extrodinary, probably only HTC One can compete against it. But unfortunately, as design and build quality is concerned, Optimus G Pro has nothing to do with Optimus G. Optimus G Pro looks like a copycat of Galaxy Note 2!! Plastic was chosen to replace the glass. This is a serious joke if … Read the rest

Sony Xperia Z vs Samsung Galaxy S4, which one is for you?

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xperia-z-vs-galaxy-s4Sony Xperia Z was announced in January this year. In most regions, it is already available. So, it is possible to put your hands on it in local handphone shops.

Sony Xperia Z is the flagship smartphone from Sony in 2013, and it surely is Samsung Galaxy S4‘s close competitor. Many buyers are facing a difficult choice: S4 or Xperia Z? In this buyer’s guide, I will compare Samsung Galaxy S4 and Sony Xperia Z. Similar to the comparison between Galaxy S4 and HTC One, The comparison will be focused on 1).design and build quality; 2).battery; 3). software; 4). camera and video; and 5). display.

You may noticed, I seldom compare specifications, because most of flagship Android phones are overpowered. In other words, the hardware has more than sufficient power already, and therefore, it does not make sense to compare the specifications among such top-level phones.

 Round One: Design and build quality

No words needed. When you put your hands on them, you will immediately know Xperia Z wins. The design and build quality of Xperia Z is second to none. It looks beautiful and sleek. When you put it in your hands, it is well balanced and all buttons feel perfect. Apparently, all details are well considered in the design.

The material used for the back is high gloss glass, similar to that in  Nexus 4. It does give you premium feeling. But if you are going to use a case or cover, this may be not of your interest.

Another nice design feature of Xperia Z is water and dust resistant. Spilling of coffee is not an issue for Xperia Z. You can even use the phone when shower. You can even wash it  with water or soak it in water! Of course, you … Read the rest

Should I buy HTC One or Samsung Galaxy S4?

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galaxy-s4-vs-htc-one-photoWith the official announcement  of Galaxy S4, some buyers are considering between Galaxy S4 and HTC One.

Yes, this can be a difficult decision. The price difference of these two handsets should not be large in most regions. The hardware specifications are both top-notch based on today’s standard. So, it boils down to personal taste and features.

Now let me help you make the decision based on 5 aspects:  1) design and build quality; 2) battery; 3). software; 4). camera and video; 5). audio and speakers.

Round one: design and build quality

When talking about design and build quality, HTC One is surely the winner. HTC One’s aluminum body and sleek design makes it very attractive, and gives a premium feeling when holding it in hands. However, Samsung’s plastic (although it is named as polycarbonate)  design with rounded corners makes it simple and clean. Of course, it may not give you the premium feeling, but it is more durable.

The fact is that more than half of smartphone users will put the their phones into cases! So, if you are going to put your Galaxy S4 or HTC One into a case, the design and build quality does not matter.

Round two: Battery

Samsung Galaxy S4 packs a 2600mAh battery, while  HTC One comes with a 2300mAh battery. For a full HD screen, the battery is probably sufficient for one-day usage for  most users unless you are a heavy user. The battery life should be similar on these two phones.

However, the battery in Galaxy S4  is removable; while the one in HTC One is non-removable. As today’s Li-ion or Li- polymer battery can only sustain about 400-800 full cycles (charge–discharge), your battery will lose capacity significantly after one year or something. For phones … Read the rest

Galaxy S4: A Life Companion—Official specifications and video

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galaxy-s4-photoRumors after rumors. Finally Samsung Galaxy S4 officially comes.

It is proven again that the rumors are correct. Most of the specifications are posted in our previous post on the rumored specifications of Galaxy S4. To summarize, Galaxy S4 comes with Android Jelly Bean 4.2.2 (the latest version), 5″  full HD AMOLED display, Samsung Exynos Octa CPU (or Qualcomm Snapdragon 600  for US market, here is the comparison of these two processors). 2GB RAM, 13MP/2MP camera, 2600mAH battery.

The design is similar to S3 and Note 2. The weight is 130g. Plastic as usual.

In addition to upgrade in hardware specifications, Galaxy S4 also provides some innovative features including:

  • Smart pause
  • Smart scroll
  • Air view and Air gesture
  • WatchON
  • HomeSync
  • Group play
  • Dual shot, dual recording, and dual video call
  • Shot with sound
  • Drama shot
  • Story album
  • S translator
  • New ChatON
  • S Health
  • Adapt display
  • Adapt sound

We will introduce some of these features in coming posts. Stay tuned!

Of course, Samsung also released an official introduction  video for  Galaxy S4.

What do you think about this phone?… Read the rest

Samsung Galaxy S4 official video (teaser)

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galaxy-s4-official-imageYes, Samsung is teasing us with an official image(see left)  and two videos on the coming Galaxy S4.

In previous posts, we already discussed  rumored specifications of Galaxy S4, AMOLED vs SoLux display , and Exynos 5 Octa vs Snapdragon 600

Of course, you will know the answers on March 14, just two days away.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Part 1 of the video (featured Jeremy, the secret messenger of Samsung UNPACKED 2013 ) :

Part 2 of the video (again featured Jeremy, the secret messenger of Samsung UNPACKED 2013 ) :

 … Read the rest

Will Samsung Galaxy S4 Use Own Exynos Processor or Qualcomm Snapdragon 600? Which one is better? What are the differences?

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samsung-exynos-5-octa-vs-snapdragon600-smallWe have to wait for the official specifications until March 14 in the Samsung Unpack 2013 event in New York.

The rumored specifications of Galaxy S4 have two versions on processor  (chip). One version says Samsung ‘s own Exynos 5 Octa (5450) will be used; while other one says Samsung may use Qualcomm Snapdragon 600.

The logic question is which one is better, or what  the differences are.  In the Galaxy S4 rumored specifications, I told you guys my bet is on Exynos  5 Octa. I will tell you my reasoning later in this post.

So first let’s compare Exynos 5 Octa and Qualcomm Snapdragon 600.

Both Exynos 5 Octa and  Snapdragon 600 were announced this year. Most high-end smartphones and tablet will use one of them this year. Snapdragon 600 already got customers lining up: HTC (HTC One) , ASUS (Padafone Infinity), LG (Optimus G Pro) and ZTE (Grand Memo).

Both processors are based on ARM Cortex A-15, and share the identical instruction set (ARM v7). This is the latest version of ARM technology in the market.

Bother are fabricated with 28nm technology, which means more transistors in the same area compared with  the 32nm (for example, Exynos 4 Quad used in Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Note 10.1, and Exynos 5 Dual used in Google Nexus 10)  or 45nm ( for example, Exynos 4 Dual used in Galaxy S2, Galaxy Note; Snapdragon S4 Play) technology. For Samsung, it is a big leap because it is it’s first 28nm processor. While Qualcomm have used 28nm technology  since last year. Both Snapdragon S4  Plus (for example used in Nokia Lumia 520, 620, 720, BlackBerry Z10, HTC One X… Read the rest

Galaxy S4: Samsung Unpacked 2013 Episode 1 in New York Time Square on March 14

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samsung-galaxy-s4-unpacked-2013-episode-1Rumors after rumors. Finally, it is certain the long-waited Galaxy S4 will be unveiled in the Time Square on March 14 (less than 2 weeks away).

Will Galaxy S4 be the best selling smartphone in 2013 as S3 did in 2012?  Will Galaxy S4 give us surprises? On March 14, we will probably know the answers!

The competition in high-end smartphone market is fierce. iPhone 5, HTC One, Sony Xperia Z, ASUS PadFone Infinity, LG Optimus G, HTC Butterfly, ….are all lined up to hold their feet in this most profitable, and also most crowded,  market.  The momentum of S3 dies down. Recent reports indicated Galaxy S3 was toppled  by iPhone 5 and iPhone 4s in Q4 2012, although it still tops Android phone sales.

So, it is a crucial release for Samsung. This market is so dynamic. Any errors may be a disaster. Black Berry is still struggling with Z10. HTC is trying to stop bleeding.

Galaxy S3’s success is mainly due to  better user experience; rather than the hardware specifications. Of course, Samsung’s marketing muscle also plays a role.

The importance of user experience (usually linked to software implementation) can never be overlooked. Spectacular hardware specification may attract some eyeballs. But it is the user experience that converts patrons to buyers. If we take iPhone as an example, you may notice the hardware specifications in iPhones are close to most middle range Android phones. But Apple is able to convince fruit fanbois to pay high premiums. It is not just because of marketing.

Samsung’s major problem is not the OS. Android Jelly Bean (4.1 and 4.2)  is better than (or  at least as good as ) iOS 6. This can be easily verified when you putting your hands on … Read the rest

Galaxy S4 specifications (rumored)

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GalaxyS4-photo-latestAlthough there are no any official words on Samsung’s next flagship smartphone, Galaxy S4 (or SIV), the specifications haven been rumored for quite long time. It is very likely Samsung will announce this product as early as in March, but more likely in April/May following S3’s launching cycle.

The specifications we have are:

  • OS: Android Jelly Bean 4.2
  • Display: 5 inch, edge-to-edge, 1920*1080 (full HD,441ppi ) Super AMOLED. There are some rumors saying SoLux Display will be used. This is unlikely.
  • CPU: Exynos Octa 5450 A-15 (8-core: 4 A15 cores; 4 A7 cores) with Mali-T678 GPU (8-core). There are rumoring saying Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 (1.9GHz,  APQ8064T, quad-core) will be used due to heating issues in Exynos Octa. This is possible. But as an Asian company, Samsung will probably still try to use own chips with more aggressive thermal management.
  • RAM: 2GB. This is standard for high-end Android handset.
  • Internal storage 16, 32 and 64GB
  • MicroSD slot: up top 64GB
  • Weight: 130-140g
  • thickness: 7.5-8mm
  • Battery: 2500-3000mAH, removable
  • Main camera: 13MP, possibly with a dedicated button, and some fancy features
  • Possibly with front speakers

Anyway, nothing is confirmed yet.

Essentially, this will direct lycompete against HTC One, and LG Optimus G Pro.  We will post some comparisons later.

 

Update 15/03/2013 : Here are the official specifications of Galaxy S4!!

 … Read the rest