The world’s largest mobile phone manufacturer is blurring the line between smartphones and digital still cameras, converting them into a single device with the Galaxy S4 Zoom, which was launched in the UAE on Monday.
Available for Dh1,899 ($512), the S4 Zoom is more than a phone. It takes the body of a 4.3 inch Galaxy S4 mini and adds a 16MP CMOS sensor and 10x optical zoom to create a new category in the market.
When asked whether the device would live up to the hype, Hayssam Yassine, head of telecommunications group at Samsung Gulf Electronics, told Gulf News that smartphones with high-quality cameras are becoming increasingly popular in this region and this hybrid device would meet the demands of consumers…
“The feedback we got from customers when the Galaxy Zoom camera was launched was that it only had WiFi and some need a 3G connection. The logic behind the S4 Zoom is instead of carrying two devices, they need to carry one,” Yassine said.
Samsung targets technology buffs and social media enthusiasts with this device.
Communication turns visual
Yassine said that communication is becoming increasingly visual, with people wanting to capture and share their moments in the highest quality possible, but often do not have space or inclination to carry a dedicated camera for this purpose.
“Samsung is seeking to extend its Galaxy models in a bid to cater to different people and price segments. I don’t think this hybrid device will compete with the digital still camera. Professionals may prefer using professional cameras, but others tend to use smartphones to capture photos,” Yassine said.
According to industry figures, Samsung ranks fourth globally in the compact and interchangeable lens cameras market with a market share of 9.4 percent. Canon holds 22.6 percent market share, followed by Nikon with 20.9 percent and Sony with 14.8 percent.
