The Samsung Galaxy Note7 is a very sweet device. Samsung has taken all the good bits of the new Galaxy S7 series – camera; amazing AMOLED, always-on display, Edge screen; IP68 water resistance; wireless and fast charging; design cues; and thrown in a seriously upgraded S Pen and app; HDR video streaming, 4GB/64GB and microSD; USB-C connection; a light User Interface; and biometric iris scanning for extra security.

iTWire attended a press briefing and has had a first look at the Galaxy Note7. It is a desirable device that has packed a 5.7” screen into almost the same size as the 5.5” GS7 Edge – it is 153.5 x 73.9 x 7.9 mm and weighs 169g compared to the 5.5” GS7 Edge at 150.9 x 72.6 x 7.7 mm and 157g. It achieved this by a record-breaking 78% screen to body ratio – the GS7 is 76.1%.

But enough of comparisons – the reason you will buy this is the S Pen. The aim is to make writing on glass as close to the experience of using a pen on paper. I had used its predecessor Note5, and that experience was a little overhyped. In the short time I used it yesterday, it seemed very good – the Wacom-based experience is enough to make me want to continue to use it. A full review will be done in a couple of weeks so check back then.

The Samsung Note app has been totally upgraded and offers additional pen styles, writing on the lock screen, annotation, translation, magnification, animated gif making, and a huge array of painting tools.

The Iris scanner adds a new level of security and over time apps will be able to use it as a login and password. I was impressed with the new Knox based “Secure Folder” concept that allows you to put sensitive information, apps and content into an IRIS protected folder – far easier than using different user profiles and logins.

It accepts a microSD card, and Samsung is giving away a 256GB card (value A$299) with all pre-orders from 5 to 18 August from its on-line store, Sydney store, major retailers, and telcos. This is a great incentive.

Philip Newton, corporate vice-president, Samsung Electronics Australia, said, “In March, we unveiled the Galaxy S7 and S7 edge, our most successful smartphone launch ever. Australians have embraced the design, functionality, and experiences our range offers. The Note7 builds on that with its beautifully crafted metal and glass design, incredibly fast and intuitive functions, and water and dust resistance. The Note7 supports the needs of the most demanding users - no other device does what it does.”

Specifications

Comment

The most anticipated Android smartphone of the year has arrived. It costs $1349, and if you want those features, then it is the right price to pay.

What impressed me most is the emergence of the Samsung ecosystem. This phone works seamlessly with the Gear Fit 2, Gear 2, Icon X, S Health, new VR headset, 360° camera, and in harmony with other Samsung products like the Smart TV and music streaming.