Samsung has unveiled its latest midrange smartphone offerings, the Galaxy A55 and Galaxy A35, as part of the popular and often best-selling A-series lineup. In a first for the series, both models feature Samsung’s Knox Vault security solution, designed to isolate and safeguard sensitive data like lock screen credentials and encryption keys from potential software and hardware attacks by physically separating them from the main processors and memory.
A55: Premium Build with Metal Aluminum Frame
While both devices boast notable upgrades, the Galaxy A55 stands out with a metal aluminum frame construction. This marks a significant improvement over the plastic build of its predecessor, the Galaxy A54, lending the A55 a more premium and durable feel.
Pricing and Regional Availability
Samsung has announced European pricing for the two models, slated for release on March 20th, 2024. However, exact availability may vary across markets. The Galaxy A55 will start at €479 (approximately $524) for the 8GB RAM and 128GB storage variant, with the higher-end 256GB storage option priced at €529 (around $579). On the other hand, the Galaxy A35 will be available in three configurations: 6GB RAM and 128GB storage for €379 (around $415), 8GB RAM and 128GB storage for £339 (approximately $435), and 8GB RAM and 256GB storage for €449 (roughly $491).
Shared Core Specifications
Despite their differences, the A55 and A35 share several key specifications. Both devices feature 6.6-inch OLED displays with 120Hz refresh rates and 1000 nits of peak brightness, along with support for four years of Android OS updates and five years of security patches (slightly shorter than the seven-year commitment for the Galaxy S24 lineup). Additionally, both models boast IP67 ratings for dust and water resistance, 5000mAh batteries with 25W fast charging support, and the ability to expand storage up to 1TB via microSD cards.
Performance and Camera Differentiation
While the two phones share many similarities, they diverge in terms of performance and camera capabilities. The Galaxy A55 is powered by the newer Exynos 1480 processor, while the A35 utilizes the Exynos 1380 found in last year’s Galaxy A54. The camera setups also differ, with the A55 boasting a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens and a 32-megapixel selfie camera, compared to the A35’s 8-megapixel ultrawide and 13-megapixel front-facing camera.
Potential US Availability Unconfirmed
Samsung has yet to confirm if or when these devices will be available in the US market, although previous A-series models, including the Galaxy A54, have made their way to the region.
The battery capacity is disappointing.
12GB ram for a mid-range phone is good, super good. It will be interesting to observe how the additional RAM affects program management and multitasking.
The Exynos 1480 processor, along with AMD-powered graphics, is a game changer. Samsung’s collaboration with AMD promises improved gaming performance and more fluid UI interactions. If performed well, this may represent a turning point moment for mid-range smartphones, making high end phones less competitive
I like the fact it spots a metallic frame. Historically, mid-range phones have favored plastic or glass construction. A metal frame not only increases longevity, but it also gives the phone a more premium feel.. Nice one.
Samsung is trying to give Apple users reason to switch to samsung.