Samsung has typically been a gimmicky manufacturer and the South Korean manufacturer sure has a winner with the Note Edge. In its “phablet” class of phones, designed to straddle the typical table and phone user segment, the Edge is equivalent to Note 4 in functionalities, but triumphs with its curved design. An android phablet, this was released in November 2014, and has sold more than 6 lakh units within this time.
Features of the Note edge
The key features of the note edge in terms of hardware, software and apps are similar to its sister, the Note 4. Some of the key features are:
- Processor – A Quad core processor and a QUALCOMM snapdragon system on chip are its key features.
- Memory– a 3GB RAM with a 32 or 64GB expandable flash memory are available
- Display– 5.6” Super Amoled display with additional 160 pixel wide column that twists on the side as a curve is the key differentiator of the Edge
- Camera-16 MP rear camera with image stabilization, back illuminated sensors and a 3.7 MP front camera makes it one of the best in class
- Stylus and sensors– The phablet is equipped with S pen stylus for pen like inputs, and sensors like heart rate and finger print scanners.
- Operating System– an android Kitkat and propriety Touchwiz interface are key components of the phablet
- Aesthetics- with a metallic frame and leather rear cover, it weighs about 174gms. The curved form is a bit awkward to begin with for left hand users.
Differentiators of the Edge
Although identical to the Note 4, a Review for Samsung Galaxy Note Edge will reveal that the Edge has a few upgrades, particularly in the side bar. Some of these are:
- Display: The normal display is not affected by the curve and gives a very smooth and crisp view with Gorilla glass, ensuring that you have a sturdy device in your hand.
- Quick Launcher: similar to the windows task bar and OS X dock, this allows quick launch of apps and folders of your choice. 7 icons maybe accommodated but they can be scrolled.
- Night Clock: the curve panel glows dimly at night showing time, date and weather unobtrusively, while the rest of the screen is dark.
- Camera: The camera software has been customized to use the curved edge, such that the viewfinder is not overlaying the shooting options or shutter, but are located on the panel. This allows taking pictures to be an unobtrusive experience.
The verdict in India
India has received the Note edge with mixed reactions. A Review for Samsung Galaxy Note Edge in India will suggest that this is a model for the consumer who doesn’t mind spending his money for the right features. Although globally launched in November 2014, in India it has been launched only in Jan 2015, and it is indeed premature to comment on its success. Samsung has confirmed that this is part of its ‘limited edition range’, and targets a global shipping of only 1 million units. In India, it is available in 2 colours, Charcoal Black and Frost white. So, if you don’t mind spending cash for a high performance phone with an “edge “, the galaxy note edge is sure to delight you.