Korean giant Samsung on Wednesday unveiled the latest version of its phablet, Note 4, along with Galaxy Note Edge as it looks to defend its leadership against the likes of Apple in the global smartphone market.
The Note 4 features a 5.7-inch quad high-definition Super Amoled screen, 2.7 GHz quad core processor (or 1.9 GHz octa core processor depending on the country), 16 MP rear and 3.7 MP front camera.
The Note Edge, which features a slightly smaller 5.6 inch Super Amoled screen, has a display that curves around on one side of the phone.
Galaxy Note 4 will be available in global markets starting October, while Note Edge will be available in select markets through Samsung’s retail channels, e-commerce and carriers later this year.
“The Galaxy Note series signalled extraordinary innovation within the technology industry. Its larger screen size and iconic S Pen technology launched a new standard in smartphone culture,” Samsung Electronics CEO and Head of IT and Mobile Communication JK Shin said.
The new Galaxy Note 4 introduces the most refined Note experience to-date by combining all the latest technology that users expect from the Galaxy series, he added.
Samsung, which is the world’s largest smartphone maker, is betting big on these launches as it faces tough competition from the US-based Apple.
Samsung, which plays in both the categories, is also witnessing competition in developing markets like India and China, from local players like Micromax and Xiaomi.
According to research firm IDC, 301.3 million smartphones were sold globally in April-June 2014, up 25.3 per cent from 240.5 million units shipped in the same period last year.
Samsung accounted for over 25 per cent share, while Apple had over 11 per cent share.