More details have surfaced online about the release date and specifications of Samsung Galaxy S7, and now it includes first purported images of the device.
The images were discovered and first posted by GSM Arena, showing off of seem to be the front panel and front-facing camera module of the Galaxy S7. The photos do not hold any distinctive branding to suggest the front panel belongs to the next Samsung flagship. However, its home button and capacitive buttons suggest that they are component made for a Samsung device.
One image shows the improved and thinner camera module, which is clearly identified as belonging to the SM-G930F and supposed to be the model number of the Galaxy S7, according to Gotta Be Mobile. Compared to the one inside the existing Galaxy S6, this new camera has its connector offset to one side, while the old one was placed in the center portion.
The photo also shows the entire smartphone, though in developer attire, making its design nearly recognizable. It has bezels that are very large, bigger than the current Galaxy S6 or Note 5. The phone's design may also get a nice upgrade. Samsung's apparently ironed out that camera hump for the Galaxy S7, and the device reportedly comes in black, white, silver or gold.
Other rumors said that the company has dropped the Galaxy S7 camera down from 16MP to 12.3MP camera. It is expected to have a better camera with improved video, low light photos, faster shutter speeds and more with an f/1.7 aperture. The upcoming device is also thinner, which leaves more room for a bigger 3,000 mAh battery, addressing the big complaint from the Galaxy S6 in 2015. The camera will reportedly have a dual pixel autofocus system similar to what Canon uses on its DLSR cameras, BGR reported.
According to an insider who claims to be a Samsung employee, Galaxy S7 will have a black chassis and will not have the usual camera protrusion on the back. Samsung's new phones will go back to being dust and waterproof. All versions of the phone will contain a hybrid dual SIM slot that allows Galaxy S7 users to employ a microSD card. This is another feature that Samsung removed with the Galaxy S6 and has apparently brought back with the new phone.
Recent reports also suggest that Samsung will announce the Galaxy 7 lineup on Feb. 21, the day before Mobile World Congress in Spain, and March 11 will be the global release of the device.