Samsung debuts 7-inch Galaxy W device in South Korea

We’re not quite sure why the model for the Samsung Galaxy W is holding up the device to his ear. Perhaps, Samsung is trying to market its new 7-inch device as a phone but we’d like to think this screen size has crossed over to tablet territory already. The Galaxy W is known by some as the Galaxy Mega 7.0. It, unfortunately, only has a 720p HD display but it has other good features working for it including a quad-core 1.2GHz processor, 1.5GB RAM, 16GB internal storage with expansion via microSD, and an 8-megapixel rear camera. We’re not sure why Samsung opted to put Android 4.3 Jelly Bean though instead of Android 4.4 KitKat. It also comes with a massive 3500mAh battery. But we think this will just be adequate for the rather large display.

The Galaxy W is available in South Korea for around US$490. We’re not yet sure if or when this device will make its way to our shores though.

Source: Ubergizmo

Samsung debuts first Tizen-based smartphone

After years of getting used to seeing the Galaxy brand on a Samsung device, the Korean company wants you to get used to its new naming convention. Samsung has unveiled its first Tizen-powered smartphone, the Samsung Z. The phone is powered by an unnamed 2.3GHz quad-core processor, Tizen 2.2.1, 2GB RAM, and 16GB or 32GB of storage with microSD card expansion up to 64GB. It has a 4.8-inch 720p display; 8-megapixel rear and 2.1-megapixel front cameras; sensors like accelerometer, fingerprint scanner, heart rate sensor, and gyroscope; as well as LTE connectivity.

The Z has a 2600mAh battery and features the familiar faux-leather back. It is yet to be seen how much of an impact a Tizen device will make on an iOS and Android dominated market. This device will first launch in Russia and Samsung is trying to entice developers to create apps for the OS with local app challenges in the country. It will be available in the third quarter there in either black or gold. There will be a wider release later but there is no word when this will be. Price for the device hasn’t been announced yet either.

Source: Gizmag

Samsung plans to release Tizen-based smart TVs, to release SDK for developers by July

Samsung wants to make its Tizen operating system as ubiquitous as possible. This time around they plan to integrate the Linux-based OS into their future smart television offerings. The Korean tech company will release the software development kit in July to give developers some time with the software. It will include features such as voice- and hand gesture-based commands and multi-screen options. Samsung, however, did not specify when Tizen-based TVs will be up for sale.

Source: The Next Web

Samsung patent shows smartwatch with circular display

Patents aren't usually turned into actual products. But if this defies that convention, then we might get a new smartwatch with a circular display. A Samsung patent filed last August shows a circular display with gesture-based navigation and an optical sensor. It isn't a standalone device though, meaning it needs a tablet or smartphone to view notifications. We're guessing the device will run on Samsung's custom Tizen operating system. Again, there is no word if this device will be brought to market. But it would become an alternative to the Moto 360 for those looking for a smartwatch with a circular display.

Source: Android Central