Galaxy S without the phone bits: Samsung outs Galaxy S Wi-Fi 4.0 and 5.0

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Portable Media Players - Monday, May 2nd, 2011

It doesn’t have the same catchy ring to it as “it’s like an iPhone but without the phone,” but Samsung has finally started shipping the Galaxy S Wi-Fi. Previously known as the Samsung Galaxy Player, it’s basically what the iPod touch is to the iPhone: it’s a compact multimedia device that comes with (almost) the same spec as Samsung’s Galaxy S phones, but without the phone or 3G/4G connection.

The Galaxy S Wi-fi comes in two versions: the Galaxy S Wi-Fi 4.0 and 5.0, with the numbers pointing to the model’s screen size. “The Galaxy S without the phone” description is pretty accurate though, since the Galaxy S Wi-fi basically packs the same spec: 4 or 5-inch screen with an 800 x 480 resolution, 1GHz Hummingbird processor, 3.2MP main cam, front facing VGA cam for video calls, 8GB and 16GB capacities and Android 2.2 (Froyo) operating systems. They’ll also feature HDMI ports and support for DivX too, which makes them awesome mobile movie machines.

While they both have similar core specs, the two models have slightly different features though: the Galaxy S Wi-fi 4.0 is listed with a WVGA Super Clear LCD, Accelerometer, Digital Compass, and Proximity and Light sensors, while the 5.0’s spec seems to be toned down a bit, with a WVGA TFT LCD and no Proximity and Light sensors. It does make up for a larger battery with a 2,500mAh battery though, while the 4.0 comes with a 1,200mAh pack.

Pricing and specific international availability wasn’t announced, but South Korea naturally gets first dibs. The Galaxy S Wi-Fi 4.0 is also listed to launch in Russia (most other markets will probably get the 4.0), while the 5.0 is headed for Switzerland.

Press release:

Samsung Launches GALAXY S WiFi 4.0 and 5.0:Smart Mobile Entertainment
- Two different sizes combine greater entertainment opportunities with smartphone-like innovation and app experiences

SEOUL–(Korea Newswire) May 2, 2011 — Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., a leading provider of Smart Mobile Devices, today launched GALAXY S WiFi 4.0 and a fresh addition to its smart player portfolio, the GALAXY S WiFi 5.0.

Each featuring 4″ and 5″ screen-sizes and delivering the powerful application experiences as the original GALAXY S, the two versions give users an unrivalled entertainment experience through a clear display, a swift 1GHz processor and the Android™ 2.2 “Froyo” platform. The GALAXY S WiFi 4.0 will be first available in Russia and will be gradually rolled out in other countries. The GALAXY S WiFi 5.0 will be first available in Switzerland.

“With the GALAXY S WiFi 4.0 and 5.0 we’re delivering a rich, immersive experience for multimedia enthusiasts.” said JK Shin, President and Head of Samsung’s Mobile Communications Business. “A large, high-quality screen, a world of fun and useful applications and great communications services make this a powerhouse device at an affordable price.

The GALAXY S WiFi 4.0 and 5.0 will deliver all the rich smartphone experiences of the GALAXY S smartphone. With video communications via VoIP services and rich video and music entertainment with multi-codec support, the Samsung GALAXY S WiFi 4.0 and 5.0 will keep you constantly entertained.

Stunning Performance, Powerful Features

Key Features of the GALAXY S WiFi 4.0 and 5.0 include:

- Display: The clear display makes web surfing and multimedia viewing a joy. Keep your lifestyle mobile – enjoy movies, your favourite TV shows, photos and web-browsing anywhere. Samsung’s latest mDNIe image engine technology ensures that video and images look stunning.

- Android™ 2.2 “Froyo”: The GALAXY S WiFi 4.0 and 5.0 feature the Froyo operating system, with a possibility to upgrade to 2.3 Gingerbread.

- Application Customization: With access to over 150,000 apps available on Android Market™, the Samsung GALAXY S WiFi 4.0 and 5.0 are fully customizable smart devices. Integrated GPS support further expands the capabilities of the device, letting you benefit from Google’s map services and directory applications.

- Google Mobile Services: Enjoy premium Google™ services such as Gmail™, Google Talk™ and YouTube™. Utilize voice recognition technology to search with Google faster than ever on the Internet. Stay plugged into the world with premier Google applications.

- Samsung Social Hub: Your entire social life in your hand. Simultaneously post messages and pictures on Flickr, Facebook, and Twitter using Samsung’s Social Hub. The integrated address book provides the ultimate command & control station for the most popular SNS services. Synchronize your personal calendar with friends, family, and the latest events.

- VoIP Voice & Video Calls: The GALAXY S WiFi 4.0 and 5.0 utilize cost-effective video and voice communications services. The Qik application allows video chat which can be shared over social network services.

- HD Video & Images: A camera lets you shoot and share your life, capturing high-quality video or still images. The Samsung GALAXY S WiFi 4.0 and 5.0 support DivX HD, allowing high-definition video playback; Support for various codec standards including MPEG4, H264, DivX, XviD, WMV codecs ensures you can enjoy huge catalogues of content from all over the web.

- Audio excellence: The Samsung GALAXY S WiFi 4.0 and 5.0 “Smart Player” put entertainment at its core, designed to deliver the best possible audio and video experience. Samsung SoundAlive™ technology provides unrivalled sound quality, with deeper bass and greater tone articulation.

- Enhanced Memory Capability: Packed with generous 8/16 GB memory, plus mircoSD slot and powered by a powerful 1GHz for an industry leading performance, the GALAXY S WiFi 4.0 and 5.0 are equipped to handle any user demand.