When it comes to durable smartphones, few can rival the prowess and reputation of the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active. Designed for those with an adventurous spirit and a need for a robust device, the S8 Active combines state-of-the-art technology with an ultra-resilient design. In this article, we will explore what the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active is, its features, specifications, comparisons with its predecessor, and why it remains a popular choice for many users.
What is the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active?
The Samsung Galaxy S8 Active is a military-grade rugged smartphone that was launched by Samsung as an alternative to the sleek and stylish Galaxy S8. While it retains many of the core features of its sibling, the S8 Active is built to withstand the rigors of everyday life, particularly for those who lead an active lifestyle. Whether it’s hiking, working on construction sites, or just frequenting outdoor adventures, the S8 Active is designed to withstand various stresses that could potentially damage a typical smartphone.
Key Features of the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active
The Galaxy S8 Active stands out for several reasons, but its most notable features can be categorized into design, display, performance, battery life, and additional functionalities. Let’s delve deeper into each of these aspects.
Durable Design
The design of the S8 Active is one of its most compelling attributes. Unlike the glass back of the Galaxy S8, the S8 Active features a tough plastic back and stainless-steel bumpers, making it MIL-STD-810G compliant. This means it can resist drops from heights up to 5 feet. Furthermore, the IP68 rating ensures that it is dustproof and water-resistant, able to withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes.
Dimensions and Weight
The S8 Active measures 151.7 x 74.4 x 9.9 mm and weighs around 208 grams, making it slightly bulkier and heavier than its cousin, the Galaxy S8. However, these dimensions come with the advantage of enhanced durability.
Vibrant Display
The smartphone sports a 6.2-inch Infinity Display with a resolution of 1440 x 2960 pixels. The Super AMOLED technology ensures vivid colors and sharp contrast, offering an immersive visual experience whether you’re watching videos, playing games, or multitasking.
Screen Protection
Added to its robust construction is Corning Gorilla Glass 5, providing a layer of protection against scratches and minor impacts. The display of the S8 Active is designed to perform excellently even under bright sunlight, making it ideal for outdoor use.
Performance and Storage Options
Equipped with the powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor and 4GB of RAM, the S8 Active ensures smooth operation for a wide range of applications, from heavy gaming to multitasking. The device comes with 64GB internal storage, expandable up to 256GB via a microSD card, offering ample space for photos, videos, and applications.
Operating System
Out of the box, the Galaxy S8 Active runs on Android 7.0 Nougat, which can be updated to later versions, introducing users to newer features and improved security.
Battery Life and Charging
For those who find themselves constantly on the move, the S8 Active’s battery life is a significant selling point. It houses a 4000 mAh battery, which is larger than what the standard Galaxy S8 offers. This increased capacity provides users with extended usage times, allowing for up to 28 hours of talk time and up to 17 hours of web browsing on a single charge. The device also supports fast charging and wireless charging, providing flexibility at the end of a long day.
Camera Capabilities
In terms of photography, the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active is equipped with a dual rear camera setup featuring a 12 MP primary sensor and an 8 MP front-facing camera. The rear camera includes features such as phase detection autofocus, an f/1.7 aperture, and HDR, producing stunning images even under challenging lighting conditions. The front camera’s wide-angle capability allows for great selfies and video calls.
Video Recording
The device can record 4K videos at 30 frames per second, making it a perfect companion for capturing your adventures whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply out with friends.
Software Features
The S8 Active is equipped with a range of software features that enhance usability and convenience. One of the standout functionalities is Bixby, Samsung’s virtual assistant, which allows for voice commands and provides information tailored to user preferences.
Security Features
In addition to the hardware security features, the S8 Active supports facial recognition, iris scanning, and fingerprint scanning, ensuring that your device is secure from unauthorized access. This is especially beneficial for users who carry sensitive information on their phones.
Connectivity Options
The smartphone offers a variety of connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, and USB Type-C, making it compatible with numerous devices and enabling swift data transfer.
Comparing Samsung Galaxy S8 Active with Galaxy S8
To fully appreciate what the Galaxy S8 Active brings to the table, it’s worth comparing it with its standard counterpart, the Galaxy S8.
| Feature | Galaxy S8 | Galaxy S8 Active |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 5.8 inches | 6.2 inches |
| Battery Capacity | 3000 mAh | 4000 mAh |
| Weight | 155 grams | 208 grams |
| Water and Dust Resistance | IP68 | IP68/MIL-STD-810G |
| Design | Glass body | Rugged design |
While the Galaxy S8 offers a sleeker, more aesthetically pleasing design, the S8 Active holds the advantage in durability, battery life, and robust performance, making it the preferred choice for those who require a device that can withstand a more rugged lifestyle.
Who Should Consider the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active?
The ideal user for the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active includes:
- Outdoor enthusiasts who partake in hiking, biking, or taking part in other rugged activities.
- Professionals who work in demanding environments such as construction or fieldwork.
The S8 Active’s rugged build and impressive performance make it an excellent choice for anyone who wants a smartphone that won’t easily succumb to life’s inevitable tumbles and spills.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S8 Active efficiently blends durability with cutting-edge smartphone technology. Its impressive specifications, coupled with its rugged design, position it as a niche product that meets the needs of users who find themselves in demanding situations. From outdoor adventurers to professionals, the S8 Active remains a viable option for those who seek a robust piece of technology that can keep up with their dynamic lifestyles.
With the S8 Active, Samsung has once again demonstrated its commitment to diversity in smartphone offerings, allowing users to choose a device that suits their needs and preferences seamlessly. In a world where fragility is often the norm, the Galaxy S8 Active stands tall, unwilling to compromise on strength, durability, or performance. Whether you’re an adventurer at heart or simply in need of a phone that can withstand the elements, the S8 Active is the ideal companion for those ready to tackle life head-on.
What are the key features of the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active?
The Samsung Galaxy S8 Active is renowned for its durability and ruggedness, making it an excellent choice for users with active lifestyles. It boasts a robust MIL-STD-810G military certification, which means it can withstand extreme conditions such as high temperatures, humidity, and even drops from a few feet. The device is equipped with a 5.8-inch Quad HD+ Super AMOLED display, offering vibrant colors and impressive contrast.
In addition to its sturdiness, the Galaxy S8 Active is powered by a high-performance Snapdragon 835 processor, ensuring smooth multitasking and gaming experiences. It comes with a substantial 4000mAh battery, providing extended usage time which is perfect for outdoor adventures. The device also supports fast charging and wireless charging, adding convenience for users on the go.
How does the camera performance of the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active compare to other smartphones?
The Samsung Galaxy S8 Active features a powerful dual-pixel 12MP rear camera, capable of capturing stunning photos in various lighting conditions. The camera offers advanced features such as Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF) and optical image stabilization (OIS), ensuring sharp images even in low-light environments. Additionally, the 8MP front-facing camera is perfect for selfies and video calls, delivering excellent clarity.
When comparing the camera performance to other smartphones in its category, the Galaxy S8 Active holds its ground with fast shutter speeds and high-quality image processing. Its performance in both still photography and video recording is impressive, making it suitable for both casual and more serious photography enthusiasts. Users can also appreciate features like live focus, which allows for artistic effects in images.
Is the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active water and dust resistant?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active comes with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. This means that it can withstand being submerged in water up to 1.5 meters deep for up to 30 minutes without any damage. This feature is essential for those who enjoy outdoor activities or work in environments where exposure to the elements is a concern.
The IP68 rating not only assures protection against water but also against dust and dirt. Users can confidently take the Galaxy S8 Active hiking, camping, or even to the beach without worrying about damage. However, it is recommended to avoid exposing the device to saltwater or chlorinated water, as these elements could potentially harm the device’s integrity over time.
What kind of battery life can users expect from the Galaxy S8 Active?
The Samsung Galaxy S8 Active is equipped with a robust 4000mAh battery, which offers significant longevity compared to many standard smartphones. Users can generally expect up to 24 hours of talk time and longer durations for typical usage scenarios such as browsing, streaming, and gaming. This extended battery life is one of the device’s standout features, making it ideal for users who are often on the move.
Furthermore, the device supports both fast and wireless charging, allowing users to quickly recharge the battery when needed. With its durable design and efficient battery management, the Galaxy S8 Active stands out as a reliable companion for those who require longer-lasting power during their daily adventures or outdoor explorations.
Does the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active support expandable storage?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active includes a microSD card slot that allows users to expand their storage capacity. The device comes with either 64GB of internal storage, which can quickly fill up with apps, pictures, and videos. By using a microSD card, users can extend their available storage up to an additional 256GB, giving them ample space for all their multimedia needs.
This feature is particularly advantageous for users who enjoy photography, as the 12MP camera generates high-resolution images. By utilizing expandable storage, users can capture more photos and videos without the constant worry of running out of space. Additionally, the process for inserting and managing microSD cards is user-friendly, ensuring seamless integration with the device’s storage options.
What software does the Galaxy S8 Active run on?
The Samsung Galaxy S8 Active originally launched with Android 7.0 Nougat, but it has since been eligible for several software updates. As of now, the device runs on the Samsung One UI, which is built on newer versions of Android. This UI offers a more refined and user-friendly experience, with enhancements in performance, visual design, and accessibility.
Samsung frequently provides software updates for its devices, ensuring users can benefit from the latest features and security patches. The One UI interface is well-regarded for its customization options, which allow users to personalize their home screens, app layouts, and much more. Overall, the software experience on the Galaxy S8 Active is smooth and responsive, providing a blend of functionality and aesthetics.
Is the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active compatible with 5G networks?
No, the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active does not support 5G networks as it was released before the widespread adoption of 5G technology. The device is equipped with LTE capabilities, which provide fast mobile data speeds suitable for most tasks such as browsing and streaming. However, as 5G becomes more prevalent, the S8 Active may not deliver the same speed and connectivity level that newer smartphones offer.
For users who prioritize 5G connectivity, Samsung has released subsequent models that come equipped with this technology. While the Galaxy S8 Active still performs well with its LTE capabilities, those looking to future-proof their devices should consider other options that have integrated 5G support for enhanced connectivity and performance.