Samsung Galaxy Unpacked: new S22 mobile phones explained, ultra model and tablets - and how to watch in the UK
This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement.
and live on Freeview channel 276
Samsung is expected to unveil a trio of new smartphones at its latest Galaxy Unpacked event today (9 February).
The “epic” standard of smartphones is “coming your way,” says the technology giant, who add they’ll be unveiling “the most note-worthy Galaxy devices yet.
“It’s the next generation of Galaxy S, bringing the best features of the Samsung Galaxy experience together into one incredible, epic device.”
Epic!
But what exactly can we expect from the event, how can you watch it, and what features will the new devices have?
Here is everything you need to know.
What is Galaxy Unpacked?
Galaxy Unpacked is a biannual event held by Samsung, where the technology company showcases new devices including smartphones, tablets and wearables.
It was first held in March 201 in Las Vegas, and is now most frequently held in Barcelona and New York City, but since 2020, has been broadcast from Samsung’s headquarters in South Korea, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
What will be announced?
Reports suggest the technology giant will incorporate some key features from the popular Note range – such as the large screen and an integrated S-Pen – into its flagship Galaxy S Series.
Experts are predicting an ultra-premium device that will appeal to fans of the Galaxy Note phablet phone.
Last year, Samsung chose to release a new range of foldable smartphones instead of a new Galaxy Note as part of a shake-up of its device portfolio.
Expected to be called the S22 range, reports suggest there will be three new phones – much like the S21 range introduced last year.
Ru Bhikha, mobiles expert at Uswitch.com, said the site expects to see “the tech giant unveil three handsets at Samsung’s Unpacked event.”
Those devices are believed to be the “standard” S22 device, the larger S22+ and the more premium S22 Ultra.
“The key difference between the S22 and S22+ will be size, with the S22+ rumoured to have a 6.6-inch screen, much larger than the 6.1-inch S22 display,” add Bhikha.
The rumoured S22 range is also expected to see Samsung push the envelope on camera function, particularly when it comes to video.
Samsung themselves have said its new devices will contain “revolutionary power, speed and tools”, and will be “part of the smartest Galaxy experience yet, delivering cutting-edge innovation throughout the Galaxy ecosystem while also blazing new trails with sustainable materials.”
What exactly that marketing speak means remains to be seen, but we don’t have too long to wait!
What could the new devices mean for Samsung?
The tech giant will hope the new devices can solidify the company’s position as the largest smartphone manufacturer in the world, ahead of closest rivals Huawei and Apple.
Bhikha said there was “a lot riding” on the new devices given that the Galaxy S range often contains some of the firm’s “best and most universally appealing devices”.
“Samsung discontinued the Galaxy Note series last year but fans of premium ‘phablets’ should warm to the S22 Ultra, which is rumoured to not only include the Note’s integrated S Pen stylus but also have it integrated within the handset – a first for an S series.”
The addition of the stylus to the S range for the first time could influence other phone makers to follow, given the previous popularity of the Note series.
“While the S Pen isn’t for everyone, by incorporating it into more handsets in the Galaxy range, Samsung could be setting a stylus trend for other brands to follow,” Bhikha said.
How can I watch the event?
The latest Galaxy Unpacked event will be broadcast live online on 9 February 2022.
It will be streamed from 3pm UK time.
You can find all the details you need about accessing the stream on Samsung’s website. While Samsung’s website has the broadcast date listed as 10 February, that’s taking into account that it is streaming at midnight in South Korea.
A message from the editor:
Thank you for reading. NationalWorld is a new national news brand, produced by a team of journalists, editors, video producers and designers who live and work across the UK. Find out more about who’s who in the team, and our editorial values. We want to start a community among our readers, so please follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and keep the conversation going. You can also sign up to our newsletters and get a curated selection of our best reads to your inbox every day.