For the iOS, there is the iPod Touch that you can use like an iPhone, but without the need to sign up for a telco contract. In term of functionality, the iPod Touch can do almost everything that iPhone can, except making call, sending SMS and connect to 3G network, which make it ideal to use as a PDA or a mini palm size computer. For Android, Samsung has also released a similar device – Samsung Galaxy S Wifi.
Samsung Galaxy S WiFi is an Android device that has the same functionality as all Android phones, except making call, sending SMS and connect to 3G network. In short, it is the iPod Touch equivalent for Android. The Samsung Galaxy S WiFi comes in two different sizes, mainly the 4.0 (4-inches screen) and 5.0 (5-inches screen).
Hardware Specification
As you can see, the hardware specification is pretty up to the mark. It has a 1GHz processor and an internal memory of 8GB, extensible to 32GB via MicroSD card. There is a 3.2 megapixel camera at the rear and a VGA camera on the front. The 5.0 version comes with a flash in the rear. Since it doesn’t come with any sim card slot, you won’t be able to use any 3G connection on it. Instead, it comes with Wifi 802.11 (b/g/n) and Bluetooth 3.0. The 1200mAh battery can last up to 36 hours of music playback or 5 hrs of continuous video playback.
Android OS
The device is running Android 2.2 – Froyo. The press release does mention that there is a possibility to upgrade to Gingerbread (Android 2.3), though there is no mention of the dateline. Seriously, I am rather disappointed that it is shipped with Froyo rather than Gingerbread, since Gingerbread has already been around for quite some time and Samsung has not been known for providing prompt upgrade.
Functionality
If you have used any Samsung Android device before, you will be familiar with this Galaxy S Wifi as well. The clear LCD screen is one feature that I like most. The screen is bright and is able to display vibrant color well. It is always a joy to surf web and watch videos with this screen.
The applications that come with the device include the Samsung own Appstore (Samsung App), Qik video, ThinkFree Office, Samsung Social hub, Task Manager, AllShare (for sharing file to other devices), Skype and an FM radio. Of course, there is those default Google apps such as Gmail, Gtalk, Youtube, Calendar, Maps etc.
The Samsung Social Hub app is a central place for you to connect your various social networks together. You can simultaneously post message and pictures to Flickr, Facebook and Twitter and it can syncs your personal contacts and calendar.
One surprise addition is the inclusion of Qik and Skype. Both seems to be a replacement for the missing calling feature in the device. As long as you are connected via WiFi, you can still make VoIP calls and video calls.
Conclusion
The price of Samsung Galaxy S Wifi in Singapore is S$328, the same as the 8GB iPod Touch. If you are looking for a lightweight device wtih full web surfing capability, able to serve as a great media player or even as a portable camera or HD video camcorder, but without the hefty 2 years contract (and you are not an Apple fan), Samsung Galaxy S Wifi is a great choice.
Damien Oh started writing tech articles since 2007 and has over 10 years of experience in the tech industry. He is proficient in Windows, Linux, Mac, Android and iOS, and worked as a part time WordPress Developer. He is currently the owner and Editor-in-Chief of Make Tech Easier.
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