Samsung phones with curved screen: review of models, pros and cons. Samsung curved screen phone Samsung with side screen

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Iris scanner

Mobile phone type

A telephone is a portable communication device used for voice communication. Some phone models, in addition to performing the main task of providing high-quality communication, have additional functions: mp3 player, Bluetooth, FM radio, etc. The main advantages of phones are their compact size and low cost.
A smartphone is a phone that is equipped with an operating system that allows you to install and work with additional applications, which in turn significantly expands the functionality of the device. On smartphones, the user can fully use all the capabilities of the Internet, work with email, create and edit documents, take high-quality photographs and shoot videos. In a word, the smartphone has turned into a pocket computer and has become an indispensable human assistant. Smartphones, unlike telephones, are significantly larger (the screens of some models have already exceeded 6 inches) and are more expensive.

Type of shell

Classic monoblock– the simplest type of case, which does not contain moving parts and is presented in the form of a candy bar with an open screen and keyboard. The main disadvantage is the need to constantly block the buttons to avoid unnecessary presses. This type of case is the strongest.
Clamshell - the body consists of two parts connected to each other by a hinge. The keyboard is located on the bottom of the phone, and the screen is on the top. This design is compact in size, avoids accidental button presses and protects the screen. Some models are equipped with two screens: internal and external.
With hinged lid– the design of the phone has a hinged cover that protects the phone’s keyboard and prevents accidental presses on it.
A slider is a body that consists of two parts located in parallel planes and connected by a special mechanism that allows them to move relative to each other. The screen is located on the top of the phone, and the keyboard is on the bottom. This design allows for a compact phone size and avoids accidental clicks.
Slider horizontal– unlike a regular slider, the parts of the slider move apart not in a horizontal, but in a vertical plane.
A watch is a mobile phone designed in the form of a wristwatch.

Thickness, mm

Memory card slot

Used to functionally expand the capabilities of the phone. Modern smartphones support memory cards up to 256 GB, which in turn allows you to store a large number of photos, music, videos, navigation maps and other information necessary for the user.

Weight, gr.

Waterproof housing

Protects your smartphone from liquid getting inside the device. Modern smartphones are equipped with two standards of dust and moisture protection: IP 67 and IP 68. Smartphones with a protection standard of IP 67 indicate complete dust protection, as well as the ability to immerse the device in water to a depth of 1 meter, IP 68 – to a depth of more than 1 meter.

Shockproof housing

Allows you to maintain the functionality of your smartphone or phone under extreme operating conditions (falls, shocks). Smartphones with shock-resistant casings are popular among construction workers, tourists and people leading an active lifestyle.

Stylus included

Color

Screen diagonal, "

Diagonal screen size, measured in inches. Smartphones with smaller screen sizes fit better in the hand. A larger screen diagonal increases the amount of information that can be displayed on it, however, at the same time, the size of the smartphone and its power consumption increase.

Touch screen

The touch screen allows you to control your smartphone using touches. Due to the simplicity of the graphical interface, ease of operation, and quick access to device functions, the touch screen greatly simplifies working with a smartphone. Depending on the smartphone model, touch screens can recognize from 5 to 10 simultaneous touches (multi-touch). Multi-touch makes working with a smartphone much easier and more comfortable.

Curved screen

Main screen resolution

Two screens

Performance

Built-in memory capacity, MB

Built-in memory is a part of the system that is designed to store data, program codes and other necessary information. The size of the built-in memory plays an important role, since the amount of information that the user can store on the phone (programs, photos, videos) depends on its volume. This parameter plays a particularly important role in those smartphones that do not support memory cards.

Volume of RAM, MB

RAM is designed to store application files running on the smartphone. When you close the application, this data is deleted from it. The amount of RAM affects the number of applications that can be simultaneously running on a smartphone. If there is a lack of RAM, the speed of the smartphone will drop significantly.

CPU

The most important part of a smartphone, on which its operating speed and energy consumption depend. The largest manufacturers of smartphone processors are Qualcomm and MTK. Qualcomm processors have greater performance and lower power consumption than MTK, but are more expensive.

Number of SIM cards

Most modern phones and smartphones support the ability to work with two (sometimes even three) SIM cards. In practice, this allows you to stop using several phones for each individual SIM card, and use just one phone both for calls to numbers from different operators and for the mobile Internet.

GLONASS

Russian satellite system, which, along with GPS, allows you to determine location coordinates using signals received from satellites. The combined use of GLONASS and GPS allows you to more accurately determine location coordinates, and the navigation program can use data from the satellites of the two systems.

3G (UMTS) support

A third generation network that allows data transmission at relatively high speeds (in practice, up to 384 Kbps). At the same time, 3G allows you to use video telephony, download audio and video files to your smartphone or phone.

WiFi

Standard for data transmission over radio channels. This technology allows you to create a wireless connection between smartphones and computers to transfer data or provide access to the Internet.

Bluetooth

Wireless technology that allows data to be transmitted over radio channels. Using Bluetooth, the user can create a wireless connection between smartphones (for data transfer), remotely control devices and exchange voice communications.

GPS module

A device that allows you to receive signals from a satellite to determine your location. The accuracy of location determination depends on the number of satellites from which the GPS module receives signals. Thanks to the GPS module, a smartphone user can use his device as a navigator.

LTE/4G

A standard for wireless high-speed data transfer for smartphones. This technology allows you to increase the data download speed up to 150 Mbit/s depending on the frequency. LTE/4G supports operation at different frequencies (called bands) from 1 to 44. In Russia, bands 3, 7, 20, 38 are used. When choosing a smartphone, you should make sure that the required frequency is supported by the smartphone.

NFC

Wireless communication technology that allows several devices located close to each other (no more than 5-10 cm) to exchange data. In smartphones, the presence of NFC allows you to make instant payments to pay for purchases in a store or for travel on the subway.

SIM card type

Purpose

For the elderly

The main goal of phones for older people is to be as simple and easy to use as possible. These phones are mainly used for making calls and sending SMS. Phones for older people can be equipped with large buttons and numbers, larger screen font sizes (for people with poor vision), and a loud ringer.

Children's mobile phones

Children's phone models are available in bright colors, and the body can be made in different shapes, and may also contain parental control programs.

Platform

Android is an open operating system that allows you to install applications from third-party developers. In this regard, a large number of companies are engaged in the production of Android-based smartphones, and the Play Market offers a huge selection of additional applications.
Windows is a less popular operating system developed by Microsoft Corporation. The main disadvantage of this operating system is the significantly smaller set of applications in the Microsoft Store.
iOS is an operating system that is designed specifically for mobile devices manufactured by Apple. The main advantages of this operating system are ease of learning, good system optimization and a huge selection of applications in the App Store.

It cannot be said that the modern consumer actively perceives technological know-how, responding with a reaction in the form of purchasing an appropriate device. Although many new products on the market of household appliances and electronics are truly capable of transforming the device and quality of life, most of them are not fundamentally different from their more familiar and traditional counterparts. In this regard, the television segment is considered the most established. Significant technological improvements do not appear so often, and manufacturers are looking for alternative concepts and means that will take the function of broadcasting a TV signal to a new level. Among the latest developments of this scale are curved Samsung TVs, which are still little known to consumers, but have already attracted the attention of specialists. The Korean manufacturer, in turn, demonstrates persistence in the use of marketing tools. Thus, in 2015, under the Samsung brand, a whole line of curved SUHD models with high

Features of curved TVs

Speaking about revolutionary technologies, it would not be amiss to mention 3D screens, which just a few years ago were also actively promoted by marketers. Today, the appeal to a three-dimensional “picture” with high resolution is especially symbolic, since curved screens on TVs already work with 4K technology, which provides the highest resolution to date - in UltraHD format. The Samsung TV itself is rather concave. This design is in some ways similar to how projectors work in movie theaters, which allow you to expand the angle of view and generally improve the image.

However, on televisions there is no such thing to talk about. The curved shape certainly offers the benefit of optimizing the projection area for an enhanced viewer experience. But the main benefit to improving picture performance still comes from the 4K format itself, on which most curved Samsung TVs with different diagonals operate. In addition, like all new products, such models are equipped with a wide range of additional options. But first things first.

Deep Immersion Effect

Despite the serious difference with the tasks set before developers of custom screens in cinemas, Korean TVs also provide a certain immersive effect that “flat” models cannot boast of. However, in order to feel the benefits that the curved screen of a Samsung TV can, in principle, provide while watching, two conditions must be met. Firstly, you should use a large screen, at least 40 inches, and secondly, its surface should cover at least 40% of the field of view. For example, if a 55-inch model is used, then this value will be 170 cm.

But there is one caveat. This calculation is relevant specifically for models with UltraHD resolution. If the TV uses standard HD or FullHD, then the distance increases to 323 and 218 cm, respectively. Therefore, it is better to focus on 4K models in advance, otherwise there is simply no point in a non-standard design. Unfortunately, curved Samsung TVs are currently ahead of the development of high-definition technologies. There is still not much UltraHD video content with the 3840x2160 format, and it is not always possible to fully experience its advantages.

Contrast and viewing angles

Another important characteristic of concave screens is the increased viewing angle and contrast. It must be said that Samsung's competitors from LG have maximized these advantages through the use of OLED technology, which allows for ideal viewing angles. In turn, curved Samsung TVs are equipped with LCD matrices that compensate for the loss of lateral contrast. Otherwise, the viewing angle provides the same discomfort as conventional models with flat screens. The fact is that one person in the process of viewing can only feel the benefits of increased angles. However, if the whole family sits in front of the screen, then the end viewers will feel the imperfection of the image in the corners.

Reflections and optical distortion

The non-standard curvature of the screen surface changes the angle of reflection of light rays, which leads to a reduction in glare. Consequently, the concavity forms a focal point at a distance of half the radius of curvature from the central part of the screen. Reflections will blur if the viewer sits further than this focal point. In addition, a Samsung TV with a curved screen can reduce optical distortion. But in this case, the opinions of experts are not so clear. The minimization of distortion is explained by the fact that the human eye does not have a flat surface, and when interacting with the same screen, a harmonious perception is ensured. However, critics of this theory still note that this approach distorts the director’s intent. The fact is that when shooting from a camera, a sensor matrix with a flat shape is used, and the TV makes additional adjustments when processing and presenting the “picture”.

Visual area of ​​screens

Compared to flat screens, curved counterparts provide a wider viewing area - and this is subject to the same diagonals. True, this advantage can only be used if the distance at which the viewer is located is correctly selected. For example, if we take 55-inch Samsung TVs, the curved screen of which is optimal in terms of projection width, then the visual increase will be a 3 percent increase in area. At a distance of three meters from the equipment, the increase will be 9%, since the angle will be expanded to almost 25 degrees. But such calculations only apply if there is only one viewer watching TV. In general, visual expansion only works under optimal conditions when the person is centered relative to the screen.

Intelligent filling

The new generation of Samsung TVs is distinguished not only by curved screens, but also by their reinforcement with “smart” filling, which is called Smart Hub. In this part, Korean craftsmen have concentrated all the advanced TV applications and functional features. The structure of this interface involves several sections that contain games, proprietary applications from Samsung, multimedia tools, etc. It is worth noting the presence of a browser, which is also supported by a Samsung TV with a curved screen when entering the appropriate mode. The device allows you not only to use content via the Internet, but also to download movies and TV series to a hard drive or USB drive, and then view the materials through them, regardless of an Internet connection. It is worth noting the functions of automatic image quality settings. TVs provide optimal color reproduction, broadcasting natural tones, halftones and tonal transitions. There are also no complaints regarding sharpness and contrast. These TVs also have a zone auto-contrast function, which allows you to change the brightness in individual areas of the screen.

Model description UE65HU9000T

This is the flagship model in the advanced line of the Korean manufacturer, which can be considered not just a leader in its class, but one of the most technologically advanced developments in the entire segment. This is evidenced by the characteristics of the model:

• The diagonal of the concave screen is 65 inches.
• Matrix coating type - gloss.
• The aspect ratio is 16:9.
• Matrix type - S-PVA.
• Resolution - 4K standard.
• Curvature radius - 420 cm.
• 3D support is present.

Along with UltraHD support and a decent 65-inch diagonal, the Clear Motion Rate function is also noted, which the new Samsung TV also has. Thanks to this addition, the curved screen of the model provides updates at a frequency that is comfortable for the eyes. Since combination with three-dimensional technologies slows down this indicator, the creators used the TV backlight, which increased the flicker intensity.

Model description UE55HU9000

This model can be classified as medium category. It optimally combines high resolution and additional functionality. The developers used a 55-inch diagonal LCD screen with an aspect ratio of 16:9. It must be said that this option is in no way inferior to larger sizes in terms of providing the projection advantages of a concave screen. True, the curved Samsung 40-inch TV is also capable of conveying the same effects of depth and image contrast, but still the screen with reduced dimensions is not so impressive with the “picture”. But the model can please you with its functionality, which is provided by accessories in the form of 3D glasses, a touch control panel, a built-in webcam, an eco-sensor, a slip timer, etc.

Model description UE40JU6610U

This is the youngest and one of the first models with a concave screen. It is also the most affordable. As for the resolution, it is presented in the same UltraHD format, which is 4 times higher than FullHD characteristics. Thanks to this technology, a Samsung 40-inch curved TV can provide excellent detail. Also, the features of this version include natural color rendering, which is implemented using PurColour technology. The viewer receives a wide palette of bright and pure colors, as close as possible to real ones. The “smart” filling of the latest models of the Korean brand has already been noted. The junior level representative was no exception and received a convenient Smart menu, which, among other things, provides access to the Internet.

Positive reviews about curved models

Most of the laudatory reviews are rightly addressed to models with 4K resolution, the advantages of which are obvious. In other indicators the situation is not so clear. Owners note a cleaner “picture” without distortion or reflection, increased visual width and contrast benefits. There are also some reviews about curved Samsung TVs, which are used for viewing three-dimensional images. As with the 4K format, 3D technology is optimally implemented when broadcast through a concave screen. Another thing is that you can achieve the best result only by viewing it alone and experimenting with the position of the location relative to the screen.

Negative reviews

Before moving on to negative reviews, I must say that they are practically in no way inferior to traditional devices. The only negative is the price. As for the negative reviews specifically regarding the screen itself, they note a deterioration in viewing angles for viewers who are not sitting in the center. An experienced eye will also notice the optical distortions that plague Samsung TVs with curved screens. Reviews regarding image quality in other parameters are generally lenient, but, again, a lot depends on the preliminary settings and the choice of viewing position.

Conclusion

The main question facing TV manufacturers today is: how promising are concave screens and how to make the most efficient use of the UltraHD format? If the situation with regard to the second one is clear, then the advantages of a non-standard screen are less obvious. Perhaps this explains the efforts of marketers who are doing their best to advertise the curved Samsung TV. Reviews from consumers themselves do not note any revolutionary achievements. If you strictly approach the assessment of a new design with all physical and geometric calculations, then, of course, there will be advantages. This includes an expansion of the viewing angle, an increase in contrast, as well as a deeper visual perception of the “picture”. Another thing is that only a TV with support for the 4K format and a decent diagonal can fully reveal these advantages. And these characteristics directly affect the cost of such models, which averages 50-70 thousand rubles.

It's no secret that many users don't like phones with large voids around the screen. In recent years, in the production of smartphones, there has been a tendency to reduce the frames around the screens, and this is explained by the desire to maximize their usable area so that nothing distracts the eye from the image on the display. The desire to reduce frames as much as possible has led to the appearance on the market of models that simply do not have these frames. Readers are presented with a rating of frameless smartphones of 2018, each of which is interesting in its own way and can be a good option for purchase.

The rating is built in order - from simple to complex, and opens our top 10 frameless smartphones of 2018 with a model in an aluminum alloy and plastic body - Xiaomi Redmi Note 5. Its large IPS screen with thin frames has a diagonal of 6 inches and a resolution of 2160 × 1080 pixels, and is protected from scratches by special glass curved at the edges. This phone has a fairly powerful 8-core processor – Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 with a clock frequency of 2 GHz and 4 GB of RAM is allocated for its stable operation. The main camera of Redmi Note 5 is made up of dual sensors with a resolution of 12 and 5 megapixels, the older of which, with an aperture of f/2.2, has the functions of autofocus, HDR shooting and touch focusing, and the younger one is needed to obtain the bokeh effect in pictures. The front camera of the device has f/2.2 aperture and a resolution of 13 megapixels. The quality of photo and video cameras in the daytime is very good, especially if you replace their software with third-party software, for example from Google. An inexpensive but good smartphone with a large screen is equipped with a fingerprint scanner, Bluetooth 5.0 and IRDA modules. It has two slots for SIM cards and a capacious 4000 mAh battery with fast charging function, which lasts for two days of battery life.

Specifications

• OS: Android 7.1.1 Nougat with MIUI V9.2 shell;
• Display: IPS, 18:9, 5.99 inches, 2160x1080 pixels;
• Cameras: main (dual) - 12+5 MP, front - 13 MP;
• Processor: 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 (2000 MHz);
• Battery: 4000 mAh, fast charging (micro-USB).

pros

1. Excellent 6-inch 18:9 edge-to-edge display;
2. High performance Snapdragon 636 chip;
3. Good cameras, high-quality sound and high battery life.

Minuses

1. There is no stabilization for cameras and the NFC module;
2. The kit does not include a fast charging unit;
3. Combined memory card slot.

The ninth position in the ranking was taken by the Huawei P20 Lite smartphone in an aluminum alloy case. The front panel of the device is occupied by an IPS screen with a diagonal of 5.84 inches and a resolution of 2280×1080 pixels with scratch-resistant 2.5D glass. All processes in the device are controlled by a powerful 8-core chipset – HiSilicon Kirin 659 with a clock frequency of 2.36 GHz, so the P20 Lite works very quickly both on the network and with any applications. This frameless smartphone has two high-quality 16 megapixel cameras, and the rear module with f/2.2 aperture is dual with a 2 megapixel auxiliary camera to create a bokeh effect in pictures. The front camera has an f/2 aperture lens, and it takes good selfies. The smartphone has two SIM card slots, an NFC module, a fingerprint scanner and a 3000 mAh battery with fast charging function, the charge of which lasts for a day.

Specifications

• OS: Android 8.0 Oreo with Emotion 8.0 shell;
• Cameras: main (dual) - 16+2 MP, front - 16 MP;
• Processor: 8-core HiSilicon Kirin 659 (2.36 GHz);
• Video processor: Mali-T830 MP2;
• Memory: RAM - 4 GB, built-in - 64 GB, combined slot for memory cards;
• Battery: 3000 mAh, fast charging, (USB Type-C).

pros

1. Rich and bright frameless screen;
2. Excellent front camera and NFC;
3. Performance of the powerful HiSilicon Kirin 659 chip.

Minuses

1. Small battery capacity;
2. Protruding camera module;
3. Very slippery.

Honor 10 4/64GB

In eighth place is another interesting model – Huawei Honor 10, which has almost no frames on the sides of the display. This elegant smartphone is housed in an aluminum alloy body with a tempered glass back panel. Its large and bright 5.84-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 2280x1080 pixels is protected from damage by durable 2.5D glass. In addition, Honor 10 also works very quickly, which is explained by the presence of a powerful 8-core chipset – HiSilicon Kirin 970 with a clock frequency of 2.36 GHz. The multimedia content of the phone matches an excellent screen and a powerful processor: its main dual camera with 16 and 20 megapixel sensors makes it possible to create excellent photos and videos. Its aperture is f/1.8 and the quality of HDR shooting, as well as shooting in RAW format, is a real gift for photography enthusiasts, although, according to reviews from the owners, it is still necessary to “finish its software.” The front camera of the gadget has a resolution of 23.8 megapixels and an f/2 aperture – unique parameters for a selfie module. The smartphone has two SIM card slots and a fingerprint scanner, IRDA and NFC modules, as well as a fast charging function for a 3400 mAh battery.

Specifications

• OS: Android 8.1 Oreo with Emotion 8.1 shell;
• Display: IPS, 5.84 inches, 2280×1080 pixels;
• Processor: 8-core HiSilicon Kirin 970 (2.36 GHz);
• Video processor: Mali-G72 MP12;
• Memory: RAM - 4/6 GB, built-in - 64/128 GB;
• Battery: 3400 mAh, fast charging, (USB Type-C).

pros

1. Large IPS screen and good cameras;
2. Hardware at the level of flagship smartphones;
3. Fast face unlock, NFC and IRDA available.

Minuses

1. No memory card slot;
2. Protruding camera module;
3. Long response time to fingerprint.

Seventh place was taken by an excellent phablet with two SIM cards - OPPO F7, assembled in a durable metal case, which, due to the lack of frames around the large screen, does not seem bulky. This model has a high-quality IPS display with a diagonal of 6.23 inches and a resolution of 2280×1080 pixels, and a fairly powerful 8-core processor – MediaTek Helio P60 with an operating frequency of 2 GHz, the performance of which is sufficient for its fast operation, as noted by the owners of OPPO F7 in your reviews. Its cameras are also good: for example, the rear module with f/1.8 aperture and 16 megapixel resolution has a user-friendly interface, many interesting functions and settings, thanks to which high-quality photos and videos can be taken in good lighting in HDR mode. The phone’s selfie camera – Sony IMX576 – is simply a gift to the owner with its 23.79 megapixel resolution and f/2 aperture. The elegant smartphone has a fingerprint scanner and a 3400 mAh battery with fast charging.

Specifications

• OS: Android 8.1 Oreo with ColorOS 5.0 shell;
• Display: IPS, 6.23 inches, 2280×1080 pixels;
• Cameras: main (dual) - 16+20 MP, front - 23.8 MP;
• Processor: 8-core MediaTek Helio P60 (2 GHz);
• Video processor: Mali-G72 MP3;
• Memory: RAM - 4/6 GB, built-in - 64/128 GB, separate slot for memory cards;
• Battery: 3400 mAh, fast charging.

pros

1. Large IPS screen and high speed;
2. Excellent cameras with tons of settings;
3. Separate slot for microSD.

Minuses

1. There is no missed call indicator;
2. No NFC module;
3. The battery drains quickly.

In sixth place in the ranking is another phablet - ASUS ZenFone 5 ZE620KL, with a magnificent frameless IPS display with a diagonal of 6.2 inches and a resolution of 2246 × 1080 pixels, protected by scratch-resistant 2.5D glass. Another important parameter is the fast operation of ZenFone 5, which is ensured by a powerful chipset based on an 8-core processor – Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 with an operating frequency of 1.8 GHz. The multimedia part of this phone is represented by an excellent rear camera - Sony IMX363 with a resolution of 12 megapixels and f/1.8 aperture, which has optical and digital image stabilization, which is so necessary for shooting video in motion. And for artistic photos, the main photo module is supported by an additional 8 MP camera with f/2 aperture and a viewing angle of 120°. A good front camera - OmniVision OV8856 with a resolution of 8 megapixels and f/2 aperture will be useful to the owner of the device for self-portraits and selfie videos. In addition, the dual-SIM smartphone has Bluetooth 5.0 and NFC modules, stereo speakers and FM radio, as well as a fingerprint scanner and fast charging function for its 3300 mAh battery.

Specifications

• OS: Android 8.0 Oreo with ZenUI 5.0 shell;
• Display: IPS, 6.2 inches, 2246×1080 pixels;
• Cameras: main (dual) - 12+8 MP (optical stabilization), front - 8 MP;
• Video processor: Qualcomm Adreno 509;

pros

1. Good sound and battery life.

Minuses

The fifth step in the ranking was taken by a smartphone with a large screen - Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S in an aluminum alloy body with a ceramic back panel. The model is equipped with a 6-inch IPS display from Japan Display Inc. with a resolution of 2160×1080 pixels, protected by scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 4. In its work, Mi Mix 2S uses the capabilities of its top-end 8-core processor - Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 with a clock frequency of 2.8 GHz, therefore, as the owners of the gadget say - “everything flies and spins” because there are no problems for a powerful chip. The main camera of the phone is double and consists of two 12 megapixel sensors. The senior module of this pair is Sony IMX363 with f/1.8 aperture, has optical Zoom, digital and optical stabilization functions, and the ability to shoot in RAW format. These settings allow you to take good pictures in low light and shoot dynamic videos. An additional camera from Samsung is used to create a background blur effect. Selfie lovers will find the front camera useful – OmniVision OV5675 with a resolution of 5 megapixels and an f/2 aperture. The smartphone is equipped with a fingerprint scanner, has Bluetooth 5.0 and NFC modules, two SIM card slots and a 3400 mAh battery with fast charging function.

Specifications

• OS: Android 8.0 Oreo with MIUI V9.5 shell;
• Display: IPS, 6 inches, 2160×1080 pixels;
• Cameras: main (dual) - 12+12 MP (optical stabilization), front - 5 MP;
• Processor: 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 (1.8 GHz);
• Video processor: Qualcomm Adreno 509;
• Memory: RAM - 4/6 GB, built-in - 64 GB, combined slot for memory cards;
• Battery: 3300 mAh, fast charging (USB-Type-C).

pros

1. Wonderful screen, smooth and fast operation thanks to process optimization;
2. One of the best cameras in the price segment up to 30,000 rubles;
3. Good sound and battery life.

Minuses

1. Not all notification icons fit on the top row;
2. No water protection, few proprietary applications;
3. Hybrid memory card slot.

In fourth place in the ranking is a very interesting smartphone - the Samsung Galaxy Note 8 (Exynos) in an aluminum alloy case with IP68 water and dust protection, both sides of which are covered with scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 5. On its front panel there is a large frameless Super AMOLED screen with a diagonal of 6.3 inches, a resolution of 2960x1440 pixels and an aspect ratio of 18.5:9. Large phone display with Alwais-On Display function, can work with a stylus. The model has a powerful 8-core processor – Samsung Exynos 9 Octa 8895 with a clock frequency of 2.3 GHz, for which 6 GB of RAM are allocated. The performance of the Galaxy Note 8, as well as its appearance, is excellent, it is very fast in operation. And also, as befits a flagship, the phablet has excellent cameras: a rear module consisting of two 12 MP cameras, the older of which has an f/1.7 aperture, has digital and optical stabilization functions and the ability to shoot in RAW format. The module's secondary camera has a telephoto lens and 2x optical Zoom. The front camera of the flagship with the same f/1.7 aperture and 8 megapixel resolution takes excellent self-portraits and selfie videos in the daytime. The smartphone has two SIM card slots, Bluetooth 5.0, ANT+ and NFC modules, fingerprint and iris scanners and a 3300 mAh battery with wireless and fast charging functions.

Specifications

• OS: Android 7.1.1 Nougat - 8.0 Oreo with Grace UX shell;
• Display: Super AMOLED, 6.3 inches, 2960x1440 pixels;
• Cameras: main (dual) - 12+12 MP (optical stabilization), front - 8 MP;
• Processor: 8-core Samsung Exynos 9 Octa 8895 (2.3 GHz);
• Video processor: Mali-G71 MP20;
• Memory: RAM - 6 GB, built-in - 64/128/256 GB, combined memory card slot;
• Battery: 3300 mAh, wireless and fast charging (USB-Type-C).

pros

1. Super screen with stylus operation, powerful Exynos 9 Octa 8895;
2. IP68 water protection and excellent cameras with optical stabilization;
3. Contactless payment Samsung Pay, iris scanner.

Minuses

1. Not all applications are optimized for the display format;
2. When you turn on the camera in the dark, the screen suddenly turns on to full brightness;
3. Hybrid memory card slot.

Samsung Galaxy S9

The top three in the ranking of the best frameless smartphones opens with another Korean model - the Samsung Galaxy S9 (Exynos) in an elegant and well-built aluminum case with a glass back panel, with IP68 water protection. Almost the entire front panel of the device is occupied by a frameless Super AMOLED display with a diagonal of 5.8 inches, a resolution of 2960×1440 pixels and an image density of 568 ppi with an aspect ratio of 18.5:9, protected by scratch-resistant, curved glass on the sides of Corning Gorilla Glass 5. Hardware power The gadget is explained by the 8-core processor installed in it - Samsung Exynos 9 9810 with a clock frequency of 2.7 GHz. The main camera of the phone is Samsung SAK2L3 with a resolution of 12 megapixels and variable aperture f/1.5-2.4, has the functions of optical image stabilization and touch focusing. The front camera is Samsung S5K3H1 with a resolution of 8 megapixels, has an aperture of f/1.7, an image capture angle of 80° and an Auto HDR function. Both cameras are of a high standard and take very good photos and videos both during the day and in the evening. The Galaxy S9 smartphone has two SIM card slots, stereo speakers, Bluetooth 5.0, ANT+ and NFC modules, as well as fingerprint and iris scanners. Its 3000 mAh battery has fast and wireless charging functions.

Specifications

• OS: Android 8.0 Oreo with Experience 9.0 shell;
• Display: Super AMOLED, 5.8 inches, 2960×1440 pixels;
• Cameras: main - 12 MP (optical stabilization), front - 8 MP;
• Processor: 8-core Samsung Exynos 9 9810 (2.7 GHz);
• Video processor: Mali-G72 MP18;
• Memory: RAM - 4 GB, built-in - 64/128/256 GB, combined slot for memory cards;
• Battery: 3000 mAh, wireless and fast charging (USB-Type-C).

pros

1. Rich color display and powerful Exynos 9 9810 chip;
2. Excellent cameras with optical stabilization;
3. Iris scanner and excellent sound.

Minuses

1. The ability to record telephone conversations is blocked at the firmware level;
2. Very small battery capacity and hybrid memory card slot;
3. In slow motion, the video can only be captured for a few seconds.

The second position in the rating was taken by a smartphone with an aluminum alloy body with a glass back panel – OnePlus 6. The model’s frameless display is made using Optic AMOLED technology and with a diagonal of 6.28 inches has a resolution of 2280 × 1080 pixels. The bright and juicy screen is protected from scratches by 2.5D Corning Gorilla Glass 5. Inside the phablet there is a powerful 8-core processor – Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 with a clock frequency of 2.8 GHz, for which 8 GB of RAM are allocated. Its main photo module consists of two cameras with a resolution of 16 and 20 megapixels; and the eldest of them - Sony IMX519 with f/1.7 aperture, has the functions of digital and optical image stabilization, touch focusing and can shoot in RAW format. The front camera is a Sony IMX371 with a resolution of 16 megapixels and an f/2 aperture. Both photo modules of the phone are of a high level, and with their help you can take excellent photos and videos. This powerful and reliable smartphone has 2 SIM card slots, Bluetooth 5.0 and NFC modules, a fingerprint scanner and a 3300 mAh battery with fast charging function.

Specifications

• Android 4.4.4, TouchWiz shell
• microSIM
• SuperAMOLED screen, 5.7 inches, 1440x2560 pixels, QHD, 525 ppi, 16 million colors, curved screen (5.6 inches main part - 2560x1440 pixels, curved - 2560x160 pixels)
• Corning Gorilla Glass 3
• S Pen for handwriting notes, drawing and more
• 3 GB RAM, 32 GB internal memory, memory cards up to 128 GB
• Qualcomm Snapdragon 805, 4 cores Krait 450 up to 2.7 GHz, Adreno 420, LTE Cat.4
• Acceleration sensor, gyroscope, proximity sensor, compass, barometer, UV sensor, heart rate sensor, blood oxygen saturation sensor, GPS/A-GPS/Glonass
• 16 megapixel camera, optical stabilization, video recording up to 2160p 30 frames per second
• Ant+, Bluetooth 4.1 EDR, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, dual bands; microUSB (USB 2.0), USB Host, MHL, USB On-the-go; NFC, infrared;
• 3G 850/900/1900/2100; 4G 800/850/900/1800/2100/2600
• Battery 3220 mAh Li-Ion
• Dimensions – 151.3x82.4x8.3 mm, weight – 174 grams

Contents of delivery

• Telephone
• Battery Li-Ion 3220 mAh
• Charger with USB cable
• Wired stereo headset
• Instructions

Positioning

Each manufacturer has products that can be called experiments - these are models that test out certain technologies; with their help, companies conduct reconnaissance in force and assess market demand. You cannot create a production technology, learn to avoid problems, if you create only prototypes and do not release them into series - therefore, every company tries to try new technologies in practice. It seems technologically difficult to create devices with a curved screen - about a year ago, Samsung and LG created models with a curve around the central axis, for example, the LG G Flex became one of such models available for commercial sale. The sales geography of this model was very small, the price was extremely high, this is a price for the limited edition and the fact that the product is not like everyone else.

In many ways, such products are perceived as something niche, and that’s what they are - models for enthusiasts or those who are willing to pay the maximum amount for a device, as long as it is unique. Functionality and the need for the technologies used in this way fade into the background, or even the third plan. Usually such phones are bought by those who want to stand out, oddly enough, but they have quite a high image charge.

In the case of the Note EDGE, we see a complete analogue of the Note 4, built on a chipset from Qualcomm, in which they changed very little: on the right side they folded a piece of the screen and made various reminders on this bevel. The difference in price from the standard version is 15 thousand rubles, that is, the cost is approximately 40 percent higher. Considering that this product is not mass market, goes on sale in a limited number of countries, in a small number of stores, no one expects high sales from it - this is a niche offer. Initially, I was extremely skeptical about this model, but after several weeks with the EDGE I changed my mind somewhat; this niche device has its own strengths.

Design, dimensions, control elements

The design of the case is completely identical to that of the Note 4, the same materials are used - plastic with leather-like embossing on the back surface, a metal frame with beveled edges, and due to the bending of the case it is made asymmetrical.

There are two body colors - black and white. I like both options, each has its advantages, and the choice of one color or another is a matter of your taste and mood.

The phone's size is no different from the Note 4 - 151.3x82.4x8.3 mm, weight - 174 grams.

The speaker in the device was moved to the back wall, the design is completely similar to the Galaxy S5 - Note 3 had a speaker on the bottom end. The changed location made the speaker even louder, in Note 3 you couldn’t complain about it, now the same melodies sound even louder, I tried to show this in our video.

There are microphones at the ends - there are now three of them in the device. Two on the bottom end, and one on the top. Three microphones do an excellent job not only with noise reduction in street conditions or in a noisy room, they have added some functions that are not typical for phones and have not been encountered by me until now. The voice recorder has been improved - now it has an “Interview” mode, when it records sound from two microphones - it is important to turn the phone with the end facing the interlocutor and preferably place it on the table. There is also a “Conference” mode, when sound is recorded from different sources. One of the new features, but unlike many, it is not at all useless and convenient in work and life.

The 16-megapixel camera module protrudes on the back panel and does not have any bezel. It protrudes slightly, and this is already familiar from Note 3, it does not cause any problems. Considering that the camera is in the middle, this even has its own advantage: the body rises, and the speaker sounds louder when the device is lying on the table.

The sensor under the camera has changed compared to the Galaxy S5, now it can not only measure heart rate, but also measure blood oxygen levels, stress, and ultraviolet radiation. Many parameters will become unnecessary for most, but a lot is not a little, after all, they don’t ask for additional money for them.

At the top end there is an IR port for controlling household appliances. Your phone can act as a remote control for any device. And this sometimes saves and helps. I had several situations when hotel remote controls didn’t have batteries, and the phone saved me; with one click it turned into a full-fledged remote control. At home and when using TV services (cable or satellite channels), it also provides all the programs, schedules and search for them. Very comfortably. The service itself is from Peel.

On the left side there is a paired volume key, on the right side there is nothing but the screen. The on/off button is located on the top end, and this is inconvenient due to the height of the phone; you always have to reach out or work with it with both hands. The keys themselves are easy to use; they are also metal. At the top end there is a 3.5 mm headphone jack, while at the bottom there is a USB connector (microUSB standard 2.0). At the bottom you can also see a slot for the S-Pen stylus.

Let's talk about the front surface of the device - to the left of the speaker there is an indicator of missed events, it blinks blue, it can be turned off in the menu. There is a proximity sensor on the right, and even more to the right is the front camera, which received higher resolution and also a new function for taking a panoramic photo of your loved one. The mechanical central key remains unchanged, flanked by two touch keys.

Let's open the back cover. Inside we will see a slot for microSD memory cards; they are hot-swappable. Just below is a slot for microSIM cards, but to replace it you need to remove the battery.

One of the disadvantages that caught my eye is that, unlike the Note 4, the back cover is difficult to close in the area of ​​the USB connector; you need to press it and apply force. It is possible that due to bending this is not so easy to do. But other than that, there are no differences.

Display

We took the SuperAMOLED screen from the Note 4, folded the right corner and got a display for EDGE. At the same time, the manufacturer states that the diagonal of the main screen is 5.6 inches, and its resolution is 2560x1440 pixels, but the remaining 0.1 inches from Note 4 went to the side strip, its resolution is 2560x160 pixels.

A narrow and thin strip that allows you to display one line of text - this is enough for many reminders and controls. But you need to understand that this is not a separate screen at all, but a part of the main display - they form a single whole. You cannot turn on one screen and turn off the other, both screens work simultaneously. Another thing is that often when the side screen is working, a black background is shown on the main one, which does not consume energy in the case of AMOLED, and this made it possible to create such a solution.

Just like the Note 4, it uses Corning Gorilla Glass 3, but it is curved to fit the shape of the screen, this is another technological challenge - there are few such models on the market yet, you can count them on the fingers of one hand.

I will not dwell in detail on the characteristics of the screen, its settings, comparison with other models, this was all done, and in great detail, in the Note 4 review, to which I will send you from time to time.

Working with the side screen - possibilities and impressions

In the settings there is a separate menu item that is dedicated to the side screen - you can select any picture, and then its vertical piece will become wallpaper. It's not that interesting - it's almost impossible to show anything in such a strip. Another thing is that on this screen you can set various shortcuts and reminders. They are scrolled through one by one, let's start with the obvious, it can be a line with shortcuts, including folders. If you click on a shortcut, it opens on the main screen, but if you click on a folder, it also opens on the main screen.

It is possible to launch standard applications, such as a voice recorder, stopwatch, ruler, timer - they will only work on the side screen. It's quite convenient.

While you're using various apps on your phone, an incoming call appears on the side screen (all except when you're on the phone's Home screen or when it's locked). You can answer from the side screen, and this is not always convenient; a couple of times I made a mistake and rejected the call. But in general, you get used to such an organization, and you even start to like it.

In the Samsung app store you can find new “screens” and utilities for the side screen, they fall into the Express Me menu. There are not a large number of utilities yet, for example, there is one that shows the memory status. How necessary is it? That's the question. In many ways, the use of the side screen is still far-fetched; the company is trying to come up with use cases, but they themselves do not understand them.

For example, a couple of toys were released specifically for EDGE - basketball and chess, they use the side screen, but its use is very far-fetched.

Perhaps, of all the side screen modes, I like the night one the most - the time and air temperature are shown in white font. You can set the time range when this mode starts working. This is great on a table near the bed; in many ways it replaces a traditional alarm clock - it doesn’t shine very brightly, but is easily visible in the dark. Overnight operation in this mode consumes about 3-4 percent of the battery charge, which can be considered quite acceptable.

Finally, one more thing - in the screen settings menu there is an option to rotate 180 degrees, a first for Samsung phones. That is, the device can be rotated as you please, regardless of the location of the hardware button. Turning it upside down, you will see touch keys that replace those on the body.

Now let me just show you the side screen photos.

Battery

Li-Ion battery capacity – 3220 mAh. According to the manufacturer, the operating time in the main modes is as follows: standby mode - up to 850 hours of operation, talk time - up to 16 hours, video playback - up to 10 hours, music - about 50 hours. Since this device is based on a chipset from Qualcomm, and my Note 4 in the review was on Exynos, made using 20 nm technology, it was interesting to evaluate the difference in operating time and find out if there is any. It turned out that there is almost none - traditionally Qualcomm creates more energy-efficient solutions, but in Exynos this difference is eliminated by a new technical process. The end result is roughly comparable.

Under normal load, the device easily works for two days. This is one of the longest-lived smartphones on the market, and no one has been able to come close to it in this parameter. Regardless of what modes you work in, what you do on your smartphone, you can know one thing for sure - it will live longer than similar devices with the same screen diagonal. Under very heavy load, as in my case, it lasts until the evening - this is about 3-4 hours of screen operation, constantly online, transferring a large amount of data.

The device uses Adaptive Fast Charging & Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0 technology, this is the first model with it. In the settings (item “Energy saving”) you can check the possibility of fast charging. In this case, with the original included charger, you can charge the phone halfway in half an hour, a full charge is possible in an hour and a half, while in an hour the device will be charged up to 90 percent.

Finally, I would like to note that, just like in the S5 and Note 4, they added two power saving modes. There is a regular power saving mode, in which you can limit the background operation of applications, enable gray colors for the screen (for AMOLED this is a feature - gray color consumes almost no energy). Moreover, in gray tones you can work almost anywhere, even watch videos - but it will be gray, which is not very pleasant and convenient.

Memory, memory cards, chipset, performance

Let's start with something simple: the device has 3 GB of RAM. The built-in memory is 32 GB, you have about 24 GB of space available for your programs and data. You can install a memory card up to 128 GB, there is almost no difference in access speed, so applications stored on the card will work just as fast.

The model is built on Qualcomm Snapdragon 805 – 4 Krait 450 cores up to 2.7 GHz, Adreno 420, LTE Cat.4. In synthetic tests there is no difference in performance from Note 4 to Exynos, they are quite comparable.

For comparison, examples of Galaxy Note 4 tests:

There is no point in repeating everything that is similar to Note 4 in this review, the devices are no different, you can read the Note 4 review, it covers in detail all the points related to this device.

I’ll just note that the Qualcomm version of Note 4, and accordingly the EDGE, uses a camera module from Sony (EXMOR RS), which gives quite typical pictures, comparable to those we saw in the Exynos version. The only difference is that in a number of modes the speed of the camera and its quality are worse - for example, when shooting at night, everything happens noticeably slower, and the resulting pictures are worse. But otherwise the difference is practically invisible. Check out the sample shots below, this is one of the best cameras on the market.

Impression

In terms of sound quality and speech transmission, there are no differences from the Note 4 - everything is excellent, the device has no flaws. Sales of this model begin in November, the cost is 50,000 rubles, while Note 4 costs 35,000 rubles. Functionally, these are twin brothers, differing only in that the EDGE has a curved screen. Is it worth the overpayment of 15,000 rubles, is there an image component to this? The question is open - rather, the unusual nature of the phone is dictated by the limited edition, high cost, and it will find its audience. It can be called an expensive version of Note 4, which in itself is not bad. Is this device worth recommending? Here I am in doubt, since I always had a prejudice against this phone, it did not seem to me something noticeably better than Note 4, a kind of self-indulgence. In many ways, this opinion remains, but after a couple of weeks with EDGE, I liked the mode of operation of the additional screen at night, the ability not to be distracted during an incoming call, since it is displayed on a small screen. But it's definitely not worth the difference, and choosing wisely, I would give up EDGE. On the other hand, there is a category of people who buy the most expensive things, and for them this niche smartphone is an ideal find. They will definitely not be like everyone else and will be able to stand out. The question is whether people will know that EDGE is unique in any way. Yes, people pay attention to it, it attracts attention, but the value of this device is still unknown. And whether it will be known is unclear. In a word, the device is not for everyone; it is niche. And when discussing it, you should always remember this - no one ever intended to sell it in large quantities. The model turned out to be very nice in real life, but it’s definitely not worth the money.

Some time ago, Samsung introduced its first smartphone with a curved screen. It would seem that such an idea should find its fans, but such a screen would not affect the overall demand. In fact, it turned out that the demand exceeded all expectations, and Samsung has been producing smartphones with curved screens for several years now, the demand for which is almost greater than for devices with a conventional display. Today we will analyze the models that are found on the market. Note that the choice is not very large, but many companies have announced that they are developing devices with such a screen, so there will soon be much more of them.

Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge

Flagship device from Samsung 2016. The screen itself is curved on both sides, the picture quality is excellent, which is not surprising: SUPERАmoled technology is used here in combination with QHD resolution.

Otherwise, it’s a typical flagship, that is, a very powerful device with a Samsung Exynos 8890 processor, 4 GB of RAM, all kinds of interfaces, the best cameras on the market, etc.

• Screen diagonal: 5.5 inches

• Screen resolution: 2560×1440

• Weight: 157 g

• Number of SIM cards: 2

• Processor: Samsung Exynos 8890

• Memory capacity: 32 GB

• RAM capacity: 4 GB

• Camera: 12 MP

• Memory card support: yes

• Support for 4G networks: yes

BlackBerry Priv

One of the most interesting smartphone models in the last few years. Why? So, it uses curved glass on both sides, as is the case with the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge. But this is perhaps not the main feature of the device - it has ! Yes, yes, this is a slider with a large 5.43-inch diagonal screen! A true exclusive in the world of mobile technology.

As for the hardware, although by today's standards the BlackBerry Priv will not be the most powerful smartphone, its characteristics are at a very high level. It also uses Android firmware, and not BlackBerry OS, as one might think.

By the way, before its release the model was called BlackBerry Venice, but the production version was named Priv.

• Screen diagonal: 5.43 inches

• Screen resolution: 2560×1440

• Weight: 192 g

• Number of SIM cards: 1

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 808

• Memory capacity: 32 GB

• RAM capacity: 3 GB

• Battery capacity: 3410 mAh

• Camera: 18 MP

• Memory card support: yes

• Support for 4G networks: yes

Vivo Xplay 5 Elite

New from Vivo. As in previous cases, the screen is curved on both sides. We will look at the Xplay 5 Elite model, which also features 128 GB of main memory - so far only a few smartphones can boast of such a set. There is also Vivo Xplay 5 without the Elite prefix; this model has 4 GB of RAM, but the screen is the same.

The only downside is the cost. According to preliminary data, it will be 45 thousand rubles at the start of sales, and in the future it will most likely become cheaper.

• Screen diagonal: 5.43 inches

• Screen resolution: 2560×1440

• Weight: 168 g

• Number of SIM cards: 2

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 820

• Memory capacity: 128 GB

• RAM capacity: 6 GB

• Battery capacity: 3600 mAh

• Camera: 16 MP

• Memory card support: no

• Support for 4G networks: yes

Elephone S7

This model has not yet been released, but official renderings have been presented, so it will appear on the market in the very near future.

In its appearance, it strongly resembles the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge. Even the name uses the abbreviation S7. Well, even if Elephone engineers used the Galaxy S7 Edge as an object of inspiration, they chose a good example to follow.

Specifications are not yet known exactly, but a 5.5-inch screen, a Helio X20 processor, and a glass and steel body are expected. The most important thing is the low cost. According to preliminary data, it will range from $99.99 to $189.99. How do you like this proposal?