Even though the Galaxy S8 has not yet arrived, and will probably take some time at that too, Samsung have gone ahead and released some stellar phones before its main event. From the Galaxy A line-up, to the new line of tablets for unveiled at the MWC, there is so much on offer from the company. The new Galaxy Xcover 4 is another welcome surprise this year, for those with a flair for adventure.
What’s on the outside
Just like its previous iterations, the Xcover 4 is a rugged phone with a lot of capable specs that would put hardcore nature-resistant devices to shame. Made only to survive, the Xcover does not hold back with its features. On the outside, the phone is IP68 water resistant and passes the US Military Standard MIL-STD 810G, which means it can withstand really high drops, take on low temperatures without a problem and also absorb shocks. The phone will also be unfazed under intense sunlight and even salt-water or moisture. This phone is built like a tank.
Samsung Galaxy Xcover 4 rugged device officially announced
The specsheet
The phone’s specifications are not flagship standard, but that is mostly because the phone is not meant to perform the best, but perform in any situation. The phone comes with an HD screen, a 2,800mAh battery as well as Android Nougat. Running everything on the phone is the company’s homebrewed Exynos 7570 SoC with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage which is expandable up to 256GB. The touchscreen can also be used with gloves, useful for treks and other outdoor activities. There are mechanical buttons instead of capacitive keys. At the back is 13MP shooter and the selfie camera is a 5MP shooter.
The phone comes only in one colour – black for now, and will cost EUR 259 ($272) when it releases in European markets in the month of April. For a phone that stays away from traditional gimmicks like most other non-flagship phones do, the Xcover 4 truly plays to its strengths. It is a shame that most manufacturers don’t appreciate and take more interest in creating more rugged phones. Mere water-resistance isn’t always enough. It seems like the Xcover will now truly be the spiritual successor to the first-generation Nokia 3310, matching its durability and rigidity.
It’s good to see Samsung not only focusing on the premium segment but also continuously updating its existing portfolio with gems such as this. Good guy Samsung!