Samsung is working on not just two, but three versions of the forthcoming Galaxy S10 flagship, in a move that would mirror Apple's release strategy.
All three phones will offer a bunch of new features that have never been implemented in previous Galaxy iterations. Internally, they are referred to as Beyond 0, Beyond 1, and Beyond 2, and these codenames aren't too surprising because they have surfaced before.
Three Galaxy S10 Versions Are Coming
Beyond 0 is reportedly an entry-level model, or perhaps a "Mini" variant of the Galaxy S10. The device will sport a fingerprint sensor on the side instead of on the back like usual, presumably where the thumb would normally rest. That's a neat design shift. However, it means Beyond 0 won't incorporate an in-display fingerprint scanner unlike its bigger siblings.
The report comes from Korean publication The Bell, citing unnamed sources. It reiterates that Beyond 1 and Beyond 2, presumably the Galaxy S10 and Galaxy S10 Plus, will have in-display fingerprint scanners. This technology is poised to be one of Samsung's most radical upgrades, although it won't be the first company to implement it — Vivo has that honor.
By relocating the fingerprint scanner to the side, all Galaxy S10 devices will no longer have the sensor on any of their backs, which is probably a wise design decision considering the criticism around its placement on more recent Galaxy phones.
Don't be surprised if the Galaxy S10 lineup ends up being more expensive than their predecessors — according to The Bell, the in-display fingerprint component alone is $15, which is more than seven times the cost of a regular rear-mounted fingerprint scanner. Qualcomm is reportedly the supplier of Samsung's optical fingerprint sensors, while Chinese camera module maker O-Film is also expected to provide key components. Samsung display will then attach the in-display fingerprint component to the OLED display.
Is Samsung Trying To Follow Apple?
The specs of the devices have reportedly not been finalized, as the Beyond 0 was apparently only added recently. It'd be interesting to see how Samsung separates the Beyond 0 from the other two, considering its entry-level category. If anything, though, Samsung appears to be following Apple's footsteps in terms of release patterns. In 2017, the Cupertino brand released three iPhones: the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and the iPhone X. This year, it's said to be releasing three new iPhone models, including a much less expensive version of the iPhone X.
What do you think about this reported shift in Samsung's release pattern? Is it wise to include an entry-level device in the Galaxy S portfolio? As always, if you have anything to share, feel free to sound them off in the comments section below!
