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1Samsung Galaxy S8 Active Designed to Resist Rough Handling
After weeks of speculation, Samsung Aug. 7 finally took the wraps off its hardened Galaxy S8 Active smartphone. The device, which will be available on AT&T’s network, is based on the design of this year’s Galaxy S8, including a big screen and high-powered components. But the handset has been hardened to reduce the chance of it being damaged if dropped or dunked in water. The device also comes with strong security features, thanks to Samsung Knox, making it a sensible choice for companies and individuals concerned about data security. But that doesn’t necessarily mean the Galaxy S8 Active is the right choice for everyone. Read on to learn more about Samsung’s latest high-end smartphone.
2It Shows a Family Resemblance
3It Has a Rugged Design
Arguably, the Galaxy S8 Active’s most important feature is its durability. The device is made from “military-grade materials” to protect it when it’s dropped. It has a metal frame and a bumper that can absorb shock and twisting. Samsung says the smartphone is also shatter-, dust- and water-resistant.
4It Has a Large, Super AMOLED Screen
5There’s a High-Capacity Battery Inside
6It Comes With Bixby
7The Camera Has a Single Lens
Samsung’s Galaxy S8 Active won’t be its first handset to support a dual-lens camera. That feature is believed to be reserved for the upcoming Galaxy Note 8. Instead, users will find a 12-megapixel single-lens camera with a dual-pixel technology that enhances performance when users zoom in on subjects.
8It Will Run Android Nougat and the Typical App Array
9It Includes Knox Security Features
In a move that could be an attempt to appeal to corporate users, Samsung has bundled its Knox mobile-security platform in the Galaxy S8 Active. The feature includes “defense-grade” mobile security features as well as fingerprint and iris scanners for additional protection. According to Samsung, Knox is used by 29 governments around the world.
10It Launches on AT&T Network
Samsung’s Galaxy S8 Active is launching on AT&T’s network Aug. 11. The smartphone, which is available in Meteor Gray or Titanium Gold, will cost $28.34 for 30 months, or about $850. Samsung noted that the smartphone will be available at AT&T initially, but could roll out to other networks in the near future.
11There’s a Bevy of Freebies, Too
Samsung and AT&T are sweetening the pot to make the Galaxy S8 Active more appealing. When customers buy a Galaxy S8 Active and sign up for both an AT&T Next payment plan and DirecTV, they can get $500 toward the purchase of a Samsung TV. Customers who buy a Galaxy S8 Active and trade in an eligible smartphone can get up to a $200 credit on their device purchase.