Full test Galaxy S4

It is not without emotion that we have the immense pleasure to present to you today, testing the Galaxy S4. After dozens of hours of study and work, gallons of coffee and thousands of characters lined up, we are able to introduce the new flagship of Samsung in all its glory.

Presented on March 14, the Galaxy S4 made a lot of noise in the world of smartphones, and the South Korean manufacturer relies on this model to finish to score his overwhelming dominance.

His predecessor, leGalaxy S3, has sold 50 million copies in just nine months, and the newcomer, still wants to do better. For this, Samsung has equipped its Galaxy S4 which is better now, both hardware and software.

A few days ago, we had the chance to participate in an evening presentation of the new high-end Samsung where we discovered the terminal. When this discovery, we were surprised by the quality of the Galaxy S4. But within hours, difficult to realize the true potential of the device.

So simple evolution or real innovation? Galaxy S4 he revolutionized the world of smartphones and will he face a maximum of better army? These are the questions we will answer through this comprehensive test of Galaxy S4. Sit back, we explore the new Samsung Star.

General atmosphere

Here we are in front of a magical moment, since it promises to be THE smartphone of 2013 is now before our eyes. Faced with fierce competition from Sony Xperia Z and HTC One, the Galaxy S4 we must demonstrate its potential.

To begin, the South Korean manufacturer has innovated in packaging. Here, the "Inspired by Nature" concept made ​​its merry way, since we found a 100% recyclable packaging . Made from recycled paper and soy ink, these packages are identical to those we usually know if this is the beige color that betrays the green side.

Unfortunately, the components of the Galaxy S4 or Li-Ion battery are not yet recyclable, but it is a first step on the part of Samsung. In the field of telephony, this initiative is so rare that it deserves to be highlighted.

In terms of design, we must recognize it, Samsung does not want to take risks and reuses a winning recipe. We find forms slightly less curved than the Galaxy S3, but always "Inspired by Nature"

But if that first impression can leave somewhat dubious, it is quickly fascinated by this model. With only 7.9mm thick, the Galaxy S4 is fine and this is very significant. Samsung has clearly made an effort to contain the dimensions, and yet we are in the presence of a 5-inch screen. With a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, the panel Full HD Super AMOLED is an invitation to navigate the menus.

At the rear, it is easier to distinguish between the Galaxy S4 and its predecessor. Thus the LED flash came under the camera sensor, while the speaker has migrated bottom. Another point of contention, following his presentation on March 14, the rear seat uses the polycarbonate. On a plastic surface, it generated a lot of debate about the high-end smartphone aspect

We must recognize it, polycarbonate appears much less noble and flattering to the eye than could be aluminum. Unfortunately, the controversy of the plastic look of the Galaxy S4 is a false debate, since three quarters of users use covers, fully covering the back cover of the smartphone. When you know that most of them are flocking to low-end protection, this is a contradiction.

However, for those who prefer to keep their smartphone in a natural state, polycarbonate has many qualities.Firstly at the molding, it can provide more free forms. We can also mention the possibility of using many colors, as can be seen with the Flip Cover. In a few weeks, new colors should also appear, which is a rare phenomenon in the world of smartphones, very Black & White.

However, the overall finish of the Galaxy S4 is very good, and even if the back cover is "plastic", the report is excellent and does not give a feel of a cheap product. Compared to the Galaxy S3, the finish is up, and it should not stop at the simple conclusion "it's plastic so it's cheap." We were really surprised by the solid feel and an impression of quality that emerges from the smartphone:

Note that the back is actually a grid that is reminiscent of the invitation to the presentation of the smartphone in New York. Although black, this case provides a mirror effect surprising but not unpleasant. In contrast, there is no such feeling on the white version:

Metal edging is present over the entire contour of Galaxy S4, which provides a little more noble to all side. It is not aluminum, but its appearance is very similar:

Now continue with the features present on the Galaxy S4. In the upper part, there are sensors on the front, but also the 2-megapixel camera, or LED notifications:

True to himself, and despite the recommendations of Google, the physical button is always present on the Galaxy S4, a little less rounded than its predecessor:

Similarly, there are all the usual features, such as the Volume button:

The Power button:

The MHL 2.0 port:

The 3.5mm jack port and infrared port:

The camera accompanied by LED flash:

The speaker is now positioned at the bottom:

However, we must recognize a small feat Samsung on the front. If we take the characteristics of the Galaxy S4, there is a 5-inch screen. However, compared to the Galaxy S3, the newcomer does not see its dimensions increase:

Galaxy S4 Black / White Galaxy S4 / Galaxy S3

It is truly on the back that the Galaxy S4 differs from his older:

Galaxy S4 Black / White Galaxy S4 / Galaxy S3

But also in the thickness of 0.7mm for the finer Galaxy S4:

Galaxy S3 (top) vs. Galaxy S4 (bottom)

True to himself, Samsung proposes a removable back cover that allows access to the removable 2600mAh battery. But we also find the microSD slot for expanding the storage capacity of extra 64GB, and the location for the microSIM:

As for the Galaxy S3, it is not necessary to remove the battery to access the microSD card and it is possible to insert "hot". Note also the presence of two small pins for charging by induction.

Note that the arrangement of elements (microSIM slots, microSD, speaker, battery, ...) is very different from what can be found on the Galaxy S3, including a speaker more impressive:

Galaxy S3 vs. Galaxy S4

Here we are at the end of our unpacking, it remains only to take a look at the bottom of the box. We discover a hands-free kit, with in-ear headphones and several tips, microUSB / USB cable, AC charger, and finally a quick start manual.

It leaves us just start testing the Galaxy S4 itself, passing now in the grip of the device.

Getting Started

"This is the same design as the Galaxy S3," can be heard here and there. This is true, and we could even say that the dimensions vary only slightly. In order to account for the differences, we made this little picture of the physical characteristics of the Galaxy S4 compared to the Galaxy S3 and its main competitors:

	iPhone 5	Xperia Z	One	Galaxy S3	Galaxy S4
Screen	4 inch	5 inches	4.7 inches	4.8 inches	5 inches
Resolution	1136 x 640 pixels	1920 x 1080 pixels	1920 x 1080 pixels	1280 x 720 pixels	1920 x 1080 pixels
Dimensions	123.8mm x 58.6mm x 7.6mm	138.9mm x 71mm x 7.9mm	137.4mm x 68.2mm x 9.3mm	136.6mm x 70.6mm x 8.6mm	136.6mm x 69.8mm x 7.9mm
Weight	112g	146g	143g	133g	130g

In this comparison, we must admit, the iPhone 5 is task. Everything is smaller, the 4-inch screen, resolution through the dimensions. Therefore we will focus on other Android smartphones. 2 years ago, during the presentation of the Galaxy S2, we were in front of a terminal 4.3 inches. In 2013, the trend is to 5-inch screens, moving closer to a Galaxy Note and its 5.3-inch slab.

For consumers, the increase in screen size becomes problematic because they can no longer go into the pockets, and the grip becomes less enjoyable. Thus HTC has opted to stay on a smaller screen of 4.7 inches, with the One. Like the Sony Xperia Z dimensions are more contained, but slightly larger (except width) that Galaxy S3, yet equipped with a screen of 4.8 inches. In short, we must choose between a 4.7/4.8 inch screen size and a contained or 5-inch screen, but in a larger terminal.

With the Galaxy S4, no need to choose, because it is smaller and thinner than its predecessor, while increasing the size of the screen. Only the HTC One is smaller (-1.6mm), but longer (+0.8 mm) and thicker (+1.4 mm), for a final result in overweight (13 g). In this game, the Xperia Z can only rely on the thickness of 7.9mm, similar to Galaxy S4. Our new life companion presents itself as the best formula on the market in terms of screen size and overall dimensions. Samsung therefore proves that it is possible to increase the size of the screen, while reducing the size of the device. A very good point.

And it immediately feels the grip. Galaxy S4 is better in hand than the Galaxy S3 and finesse is no stranger to this feeling. The edges are straight when they were rounded up, feel better and better smartphone is anchored on hand:

Although the Galaxy S4 weighs 130g on the scale, there is a feeling of lightness in hand. In comparison with the Galaxy S3, the newcomer seems lighter in hand when there is a difference between the two 3G devices.

The version presented here is the factory. This is the firmware I9505XXUAMDM Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean, not flashed or rootée and shipping Snapdragon 600 processor clocked at 1.9GHz.

Now turn on our Galaxy S4. After waiting 20 seconds, a passage by Samsung and the reference GT-I9505 logo, we arrive on the home screen. And the first thing that strikes you is the quality of Full HD Super AMOLED screen. Forget all your previous smartphone, here, the resolution is simply impressive.

As a reminder, we are in the presence of a 5-inch screen, with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, or 2,100,000 pixels. The difference with the Galaxy S3 is rather clear:

Galaxy S3 vs. Galaxy S4

(Unfortunately, during our shooting, despite several attempts, the difference between the two screens do not appear as clear in reality. Galaxy S4 screen is bright, with white text on the drawing yellow.)

In color, the Galaxy S4 offers warm colors, the saturation limit, with deep blacks. Although critics often emphasizes taking some white to green with AMOLED screens, the new high-end Samsung is doing very well.

In terms of image quality, there is no photo. With a pixel density of around 441ppi, the Galaxy S4 makes quite a slap in the Galaxy S3 on this point (density of 306ppi)

Galaxy S3 vs. Galaxy S4

(Again, our camera reduces the difference between the two smartphones. On the screen of the Galaxy S4, we no longer distinguish the pixels with the naked eye and everything is fine, with more realistic colors)

To the naked eye, it becomes impossible to distinguish the pixels for an unparalleled viewing experience. We reached there the ultimate in picture quality on a smartphone screen. When using the navigation becomes really very nice:

It is in the presence of an AMOLED, with the advantages and disadvantages that this entails. At the white, it has a slightly darker shade (compared to LCD), but the screen remains a benchmark in contrast with an infinite ratio and deep blacks. The tests screen Galaxy S4 demonstrates these qualities. Adapt and Display function is to provide us with suitable colors depending on conditions and use, but we will return later.

A slight edge is present on the entire contour of the Galaxy S4 for when the phone is placed face against the ground, the screen is not directly in contact with the ground:

Even though this is not really the season, it is always unpleasant to have to remove his gloves to use his smartphone. With the Galaxy S4, Samsung removes this constraint, as the Nokia Lumia 920. However, this feature is not present in base.

To do this, you have to go Settings -> My device -> Display and check SENSIB. high touch , this bottom of the list:

Therefore, you can use your smartphone with gloves.

It only remains to unlock our smartphone to arrive on the home screen. We note in passing the absence of shortcuts on this screen:

The screen is more refined, but it is always possible to add shortcuts (five) as it can be done from Android 4.1 Jelly Bean.

To do this, simply go to Settings -> About device -> Lock screen -> Shortcuts . You can customize these shortcuts, as well as their order. In this way, no need to unlock the screen, simply drag one of its icons to go directly to the application:

At the unlock screen, no significant change, simply drag a finger on the screen. We just noticed that the vague release effect evolved a bit, slightly more sober. If you want, you can always return to the wave effect in the settings.

At the reception, there is the usual weather widget. As we could show you a few weeks ago ( [Tutorial] Install a little in your smartphone Galaxy S4 ), we play on sobriety with a very sleek design, on bluish funds:

Launching applications , you can access the main programs already installed on the Galaxy S4. A quick pass on the Play Store will allow you to find your favorite applications and download new:

You will also have the ability to customize your office with the addition of widgets. These little gadgets allow you to set up a shortcut to a specific application and so you can preview some of the features:

TouchWiz

As you can see in the previous screenshots, Samsung is back with its TouchWiz overlay UX Nature, second name. As we will see, the South Korean manufacturer has made many innovations.

With the Galaxy S4, Samsung has presented an evolution of its TouchWiz overlay, called Nature UX 2. The South Korean manufacturer has a particularly neat user interface with many features that we will discover below.

Smart Stay:

Introduced with the Galaxy S3, it allows to scan your eyes and keep the screen lit smartphone. When you look at a document or your favorite web site , it is always unpleasant to have the screen of the terminal that goes to sleep.

With this feature, no need to have to touch the slab and support unexpectedly on an unwanted link. To do this, simply go to Settings -> About device -> Smart Screen and tick smart watch .

So you no longer need to worry about the length of the lock screen, the Galaxy S4 examines your eyes and for you.

Smart Rotation:

Discovery with Android 4.1.2, this feature is quite similar to Smart Stay, and based on the scanning of the eye also. Who has never lying on his bed with his smartphone? But then, if you did not disable the screen rotation, the interface will automatically rotate 90 °.

But thanks to Smart Rotation, need to disable the lock screen. The functionality present on the Galaxy S4 check the orientation of your face relative to the camera. In this case, the rotation of the screen is off.

As before, this feature is enabled in Settings ->  About device -> Smart Screen and just tick intelligent rotation .

Smart Scroll:

But that's not all, with the Galaxy S4, Samsung introduces new features, still in the series Smart. This is how we became acquainted with Smart Scroll. Always on the principle of scanning eye, it will scroll the image intelligently. If your gaze rests on the bottom of the screen, the image automatically so you can check back later.

This feature applies to your emails and on websites. To implement this feature, simply tilting the camera slightly back and look at the bottom of the screen to get the image, and vice versa to move up.

This gadget may seem, but in some situations, this can be very handy.

Smart Pause:

With Smart Pause, Samsung added a new feature to the Galaxy S4, already provided in the matter. Here is the video playback is concerned. We knew Pop-Up Play that keeps a video as a small window in the foreground while the smartphone features remain accessible.

But when you watch a video, we may be disturbed or spontaneously leave our position. Meanwhile, reading the sequence continues, and we must then find the last scene we saw.

With Smart Pause, it's all in the past, as soon as your eyes away from the video, it will automatically pause. Just as your eyes rest on the smartphone screen to resume the sequence:

Now when you watch your favorite series or movie on your Galaxy S4, you can not lose a crumb more.

Air View:

Introduced with the Galaxy Note 2, this functionality is now integrated into the Galaxy S4. But here not need a stylus to use, everything is done with your finger. With two capacitive sensors, the terminal automatically detects the presence of your finger, without you even need to come into contact with the slab.

Technically, this is possible thanks to the detection of static electricity from your finger. The camera automatically detects when our finger stopped over a particular area. This feature is built into the Gorilla Glass 3 and therefore is totally managed by the screen itself.

Specifically, place your right index finger over an email, and the contents of the latter will open in a pop-up without the need to open the message. Similarly, just swipe your finger over a date in the calendar, the appointment will appear then in a pop-up:

Without the finger touches the screen:

But the multimedia aspect was not forgotten. Just like the Galaxy Note 2 AirView Galaxy S4 is used in photos and videos.

At the gallery, there are all created albums. Just as your finger is present just above the folder to view the pictures in this album:

And once in the album, the act of placing a finger over one of these pictures can be enlarged:

But this principle also applies to viewing level videos. Visit the Video Gallery and Air View will display a sequence without executing:

Of course, the finger does not touch the screen

And according to the same principle, when you watch a movie or any other video, placing your index finger just above the scroll bar allows you to preview the scene where you want to go:

You can find all of these applications in this short video:

Although the Galaxy S4 does not have the S-Pen, Samsung offers us a perfect fit Air View, opening up new possibilities. The principle preview is perfectly highlighted, but other applications are also present, and always without touching the smartphone.

Air Gesture:

If Air View allows you to control the Galaxy S4 with eyes, Air Gesture plays on another table. Forget the tactile contact with your smartphone, simply sweeping your hand over the motion sensor (located at the top of the unit) to scroll a web page, or navigate through your photos:

Again, some people cry there in useless gadget, but it can be useful when your hands are dirty or wet, find an image or information on the internet.

S Translator:

Who has not dreamed of going to a foreign country and to master the language? With the Galaxy S4, it is now possible and then you will have a perfect translator, all in your pocket.

As the S Translator, we find here a handy feature for those who travel. Used both oral and written, this feature allows you to instantly translate an email, a text message or the person in front of you.

Even if one can find applications that allow translation on the Play Store, S-Translator has the advantage of being present in the native Galaxy S4. In this way, you can use all the applications without the need to copy and paste always heavy handling.

Whether it is a text or a web page, simply select the area you want to translate and select S-Translator to know the French version:

In the end, the result is rather good with a fairly faithful translation.

But you can also choose to translate words on the fly by applying optical drive . This allows you to turn the camera and target words in a text (using a pointer), while giving us the translation of this word:

Similarly, we can then capture a text box:

Select the area you want to see translated:

And get the translation, almost instantly:

Note that eight languages ​​are available: English, German, Spanish, Italian, French, Chinese, Korean and Japanese. I bet that other languages ​​should appear in the coming months.

Small black dot of this feature, you must have an internet connection to enjoy this feature. Unfortunately, when we are in a foreign country, very few people use 3G, otherwise you may receive a very hefty price and it is very difficult to permanently Wi-Fi It's a shame because it is an obstacle to the use of this feature, very convenient and rather attractive.

S Drive Voice:

Introduced with the Galaxy S3, S Voice is a personal assistant based on Vlingo engine. Simply talk to your smartphone so that it gives you the answer. When is your next train? Where is the nearest gas station?

But in the case of an in-car navigation, it is quite difficult (and forbidden) to manipulate the terminal and drive at the same time. Drive with S Voice, no need to choose. Keep both hands on the steering wheel and control the GPS navigation.

S Health:

Who has never dreamed of having a personal trainer? Certainly less sexy than Cindy Crawford, with the Galaxy S4 this is now possible. As we have discovered in a previous article (see the hidden innovations Galaxy S4 ), the new high-end Samsung has many sensors, some unprecedented in the world of smartphones.

Thus, a barometer, a thermometer and a hygrometer are present, but also an accelerometer (most common), all application-specific S Health. Specifically, this new application is a real tool for fitness and / or track your performance.

At first, simply register their personal profile (gender, weight, height, activity, ...), to improve the accuracy of the data analysis.

Once this step is completed, you will access the various programs that are offered:

So you have a walking partner, or exercise. Galaxy S4 becomes your coach by displaying your time, the percentage of calories burned and a goal:

And to do so, we need to calculate the number of calories you ingurgitez daily. Nothing is easier with food monitoring. There's no need to take a calculator to count the number of calories your plate, simply take a picture. For each meal, the Galaxy S4 automatically calculate the number of calories you swallow:

And if that was not enough, you can even know the temperature and humidity, to define your comfort zone:

If we can question these data, we made the comparison with external hardware, and the results were similar.

But you can also track your progress continuously with a summary of your effort:

If you have decided to give the sport before the arrival of spring, S Health is as perfect a simple and effective application to recover your shape:

To go further in monitoring your health and your activities, specific accessories Health S available , but we will make the test of this equipment in a dedicated section.

Display Adapter:

With AMOLED screens, Samsung has always played a very mixed slab card (the best on this point), with deep blacks. But critics have often questioned fidelity in color rendering, with a strong saturation of these colors.

But all this is done with the Galaxy S4, because Samsung has introduced Display Adapter allows color calibration in this new display function. Thus the display can adapt to the nature of the content displayed through automatic modes 7 and 4 manual modes.

Depending on lighting conditions, the screen changes, but also depending on the applications used. As for the Galaxy Note 8.0, these methods allow us to enjoy a brighter screen and more varied, depending on our use of the device.

WatchON:

Galaxy S4 is equipped with an infrared sensor, and among the different possible applications include the ability to control a TV. For this, there is the Samsung WatchOn application directly integrated Touchwiz.

On first use, you will be asked to select your country, then the TV service to finally accept the terms of use. You will then present a new screen, showing you the TV program:

At the bottom, we see that it is possible to choose the day and time you want to know the program in advance.

Top right, a small button will let you choose your brand of TV's most famous names:

You will then be asked to press this button in the center of the screen to turn off the television. If extinction has occurred, it will then be possible to switch your screen area.

Once this confirmation, it will not be necessary to perform the operation, your Galaxy S4 has memorized the TV. You can handle the volume and channels, or else turn on / off screen:

At the bottom, there are other buttons for mute, access to a keypad or selecting the source.

Down in the interface, we also find a list of buttons to control your box.

Since the Galaxy S4, so you can manage your TV show and / or Box.

But we also find features that are already known, such as Google Now, the personal assistant developed by the Mountain View company. Just click on the blue icon with a "g" and voila:

Now here you are with a wizard more efficient. Without that you return him any parameter, Google Now detects your location and "learns" your home and workplace. So you always know the travel time required to get to one of these places. The time changes in real time according to traffic conditions:

Similarly, you order your ticket, Google Now will tell you if the flight is delayed or canceled. Looking for a restaurant or an address automatically, the service shows you the route and the time needed to get there.

Of course, if you feel that the service is too intrusive in your privacy, you can disable it. But we must admit that it would be a shame to miss.

We may also mention the multi-windowing, which is activated by holding down for two seconds on the touch button Backspace . On the left side, a new bar filled with icons then appears. The presentation includes Gmail, the internet browser or Maps:

When one of these applications is in operation, simply drag one of these icons to share the screen. You will go before a screen with two applications displayed simultaneously:

Thanks to the central bar with an arrow, you always know what is the window in use. But you can also choose to reverse applications, to return to a single window, or change the sharing.

In this way, one of the two applications is more visible than the other. It only remains for you to manage your two screens combined into one. We will just regret not being able to customize the multi-windowing adding applications other than native.

Note that it is possible to move the toolbar as you wish:

As for the Galaxy S3 and Galaxy Note 2, an NFC chip is present in the Galaxy S4, allowing many possibilities.Among one of them, we can see the S Beam application, improving the function of Google Beam, which allows the transfer of files, music and photos with a single contact between two smartphones.

Using NFC and Wi-Fi Direct, it allows a much faster exchange with Bluetooth information. As part of a film with a size of 1GB, it takes less than 3 minutes, while only 2 seconds enough to share a 10MB music.

Obviously all apps are present ( except FM ), a photo editor to make edits, S-Calendar, calculator and more.For navigation, Google Maps is integrated and guide you faithfully:

Finally, one of the key elements of Android's notification bar. With Android 4.2, Google has made some changes in this element, with the arrival of a second notification bar. Android 4.2.2, Galaxy S4 therefore incorporates this new.

As usual, simply drag a finger from top to bottom to find the notification bar. One then finds an interface as we know, with the presence of twenty shortcuts, control brightness and of course the presence of notifications (e-mails, update applications, Google Now, SMS / MMS, ...):

If you look closely at the top right of the screen, there are two small icons. One of them, well known and represents a small gear is direct access to the parameters. The second icon is new and corresponds to the new notification bar.

It allows you to place shortcuts to all the features present on your Galaxy S4 in a single screen:

Thus, the bar becomes a shortcut to functions for direct access, but not having to dive into the settings. A big advantage when trying to activate a function quickly.

These shortcuts are also customizable. As you can see from the last screenshot, a pencil icon is present above.Pressing it, it provides access to notifications panel.

It is possible to customize the main notification bar by dragging and dropping icons. You can choose the features you have access faster.

But the customization of the software is not just present in the notification bar and there are other possibilities.This is what we will see in the next chapter.

Customize Galaxy S4

One of Android's strengths is obviously the ability to customize their device as you see fit. Galaxy S4 and no exception to the rule. Despite the presence of the overlay TouchWiz Nature UX 2, Samsung continues to offer a wide range of customization of the interface and it is very nice.

Of course, you can choose to add accessories to your terminal to give it a small personal note. With the Galaxy S4, the South Korean manufacturer offers a wide range of products, ranging from simple desktop dock, the Flip Cover, via the S Cover View or the wireless charger .

Of course, we will return on each of its accessories, with a specific test in our columns. But let's look at the software rather customize your Galaxy S4.

As we have seen above, it is possible to add shortcuts on the lock screen of the Galaxy S4, but also change the welcome text:

To do this, simply drag down the clock present on the screen. A small pencil appears then just click on it to go into the settings and make changes.

You can also choose to display the clock without any text by going to Settings -> About device -> Lock screen -> Widgets screen locked. -> Clock or personal msg and select Clock .

But with Android 4.2, Google has offered to new features on the lock screen, Samsung has perfectly adapted. It is now possible to add widgets directly on the home screen. To do this, go to  Settings -> About device -> Lock screen -.> Widgets screen locked and check the  number of widgets .

It only remains for you to integrate new widgets to your screen, you can launch directly without unlocking the device. Thus the remote for your TV will be directly integrated into the lock screen:

It is also possible to install these widgets on your desktop by going to Applications and Widgets . This allows you to have, on desks, shortcuts to your favorite applications.

Some widgets you can notice the presence of some new albums as Story, shortcuts to the features of S or S Travel Health:

Now back on the desktop. Pressing the capacitive button settings , positioned to the left of the physical buttonHome , a new menu appears. This allows access to the Play Store, create a folder to store your applications, change the wallpaper, access the settings or change the page:

You can reach this new page simply pinching the home screen. We note that one of these pages has a small blue icon in the form of house, which is the home office. By pressing this button, you can define a new welcome page.

To you organize them as you see fit by moving. Similarly, you can sort all your applications with dedicated pages and easily manage either with alphabetizing, is customizable, as here:

As for the Galaxy S3 is a grid with a width of five icons per row that is present, with five possible lines on the pitch. So you can store up to 25 apps per page.

But that's not all, still pressing the button for two seconds Home , you typically access the task manager:

In this way, you know all the applications that are in use. By clicking above, you restart the application, whereas dragging on the side, this removes its operation.

At the bottom right, the icon with a cross to delete all processes at once. The middle button allows you, in turn, run Google Now. The last button on the left, you will bring up the task manager with the resources used.

By opening the menu settings , and if you're used to Samsung's TouchWiz overlay, you will be a little confused the first ten seconds. Indeed, the South Korean manufacturer has now classified this relatively long menu into four sub-menus: Connections, My Device, accounts and more.

Very quickly you realize that storage is much more sensible, avoiding having a single very long menu. To find all the main settings of your Galaxy S4, then you just go into my device .

To know information specific to your Galaxy S4, simply go to More then About my camera :

Another pleasant surprise of this new version of TouchWiz, the new Samsung keyboard. As for the Galaxy Note and Galaxy Note 2, the keypad appears at the top of the keyboard, which appears very practical, especially for typing passwords:

But we also find the Swype keyboard. No need to type the letters one by one, simply drag a finger to form the word:

You have understood, Samsung has kept the customization of Android, while adding new features.

Thus we can offer a small simple example of the possibilities offered by the many features implemented in the device. With the built-in thermometer and barometer Galaxy S4, it is possible to transform your smartphone into small weather station.

To do this, just download the application wx weather station here and install it on your smartphone. You will have access to information about temperature, pressure or humidity:

You even have the option to keep the recorded data, and translate graphically to study the changes and predict the weather.

Your Galaxy S4 is perfectly customizable and it's up to you to transform the interface of your device as you wish. But it does not harm it to operate the device?

Operation

So far, it must be confessed, the Galaxy S4 we were not disappointed. With so many features, it would be hard not to be enchanted so many novelties. But what about performance and overall functioning of the Galaxy S4?

In our test, we have a Galaxy S4 (GT-I9505) with the quad-core Snapdragon processor clocked at 1.9GHz and 600 coupled with 2GB of RAM. In terms of storage space, 16GB of internal memory (with just under 7GB for the operating system) are present. Models with a hard 32 or 64GB will be available shortly. And if that was not enough, a microSD slot allows you to add up to 64GB of additional storage space.

Below, we have summarized the characteristics "engine" of the main competitors Galaxy S4:

	iPhone 5	Xperia Z	One	Galaxy S3	Galaxy S4
Processor	Apple A6 1.3GHz	Snapdragon S4 Pro 1.5GHz	600 1.7GHz Snapdragon	1.4Ghz Exynos 4412	600 1.9GHz Snapdragon
RAM	1GB LPDDR2	2GB LPDDR2	2GB LPDDR2	1GB LPDDR2	2GB LPDDR3
Storage	16/32/64GB	16GB	32/64Go	16/32Go	16/32/64GB
MicroSD slot	No	Yes (up to 64GB)	No	Yes (up to 64GB)	Yes (up to 64GB)

As can be seen, the Galaxy S4 is uniquely positioned with, on paper, the biggest performance. When Apple is satisfied with a dual-core chip, all other smartphones have moved to a quad-core processor. Sony Xperia Z and regain Snapdragon S4 Pro, a bit old (in this area) but still effective.

For their part, the HTC One and Samsung Galaxy S4 share the same chip after Qualcomm: Snapdragon 600.The main difference is the processor speed, top of the latest Samsung.

But where the Galaxy S4 is faster, it is at the memory. Not content to have 2GB of RAM, it offers LPDDR3 technology. Specifically, compared to its competitors, the high-end Samsung has a memory two times faster while consuming less energy. In practice, it can handle more data through an input data to the processor. This is a great step forward when we know the increasing requirements of high definition video and 3D games, and all without harming the battery.

On paper, the Galaxy S4 therefore seems perfectly equipped to function in a more perfect Android 4.2 Jelly Bean. Also, to convince us of the actual performance of the beast, we decided to submit to some tests. For this, we have chosen some of the benchmarks commonly used to measure the high-end Samsung and its competitors.

To put us in leg, we started with the Quadrant benchmark which tests all components of the terminal. Are passed through the mill, the performance of the processor, 2D/3D graphics, memory, and system files:

With a score of 12,671, the Galaxy S4 explodes meters and is well ahead of the competition (Samsung Galaxy S3: 6028 / Sony Xperia Z: 8075 / HTC One: 11746).

Now to the AnTuTu benchmark, which also tests all components:

With a score of 25,629, the Galaxy S4 is always placed first with a score ever seen. Competition is relayed to the second plane (Samsung Galaxy S3: 16003 / Sony Xperia Z: 20794 / HTC One: 22678)

We now continue with the test browser through SunSpider benchmark:

Again, this is a victory for the Galaxy S4 with a time of 839ms. Here it is not the highest score that interests us, but the weakest, since it is a response time. Competition can only see the damage (Samsung Galaxy S3: 1192ms / Sony Xperia Z: 1336ms / HTC One: 1124ms / Apple iPhone 5: 915ms)

Now continue with the graphics tests. While Samsung had confidence in its chip Mali-400MP for previous generations, the Adreno 320 GPU which is present in the Galaxy S4. This is the same graph as that Sony Xperia Z and HTC One team processor.

In order to realize the capabilities of the chip, we submitted to the GLBenchmark 2.5 Egypt (1080p off-screen):

Galaxy S4 decidedly fears no test and up again ahead of the competition with 39 frames / second (Samsung Galaxy S3: 15 fps / Sony Xperia Z: 29 fps / HTC One: 34 fps / Apple iPhone 5: 27 fps)

In order to get to the bottom, we decided to submit the new benchmark in the field, well known gamers, 3DMark. Two benchmarks are available: Ice Storm (720p) and Extreme Ice Storm (1080p).

In HD, the Galaxy S4 shows us a score of 11286, still before his classmates (Samsung Galaxy S3: 5076 / Sony Xperia Z: 9157 / HTC One: 10336)

Full HD, the result is the same, with a score of 6679, the Galaxy S4 is always placed before the competition (Samsung Galaxy S3: 3101 / Sony Xperia Z: 5648 / HTC One: 6289)

In short, you will understand, and even if we could test yet many benchmarks, the Galaxy S4 is undoubtedly the most powerful smartphone the moment, relegating far its predecessor, the Galaxy S3 and leaving only crumbs competition.

In use, a smartphone that is expected is that it is responsive, smooth and without any bug. And this is the case with the Galaxy S4. Performances are at the rendezvous and it is very difficult, if not impossible, to set the default terminal. During our test, we have found no bugs, no slowdown or any FC (Force Close).

In terms of general operation, the Galaxy S4 fulfills its mission. The opening menu is fast, navigation is fluid and applications run perfectly, responding to the finger and the eye.

Multimedia

With the advent of smartphones, we have completely forgotten the concept phone of this kind of device. Many uses are available to us, including the multimedia aspects. On this point, the Galaxy S4 is also well supplied.

As we have seen by removing the back of the smartphone, the speaker is much larger than that embedded in the Galaxy S3. But is that the result is better?

However, the multimedia aspect not just stop at the speaker. Thus we have a music player:

Already well known to previous generations, this drive uses by Air View. Just leave your finger suspended above a title to have the full details.

Although the Galaxy S4 has only one speaker located in the rear position, the sound that comes out is relatively strong with good fidelity.

Note that when the drive is running, a small media has to adjust to the lock screen, which is convenient and avoids unlock the device simply change the titles:

It also has a video player to watch his favorite movies and clips. Classically, Samsung provides high compatibility level video formats and it is true again. So you will have no difficulty to watch the vast majority of sequences stored in the memory of your device.

But that's not all, the South Korean automaker brings a feature on the social sharing: Group Play. You want to share with your friends your photos or your music? Never mind, start Group Play, create a group and share your media space:

Without the file is present on the terminal of your friends, they will be able to enjoy it, make changes in real-time photos, or playing the same music for stereo sound.

With this new feature TouchWiz, the South Korean automaker also took the opportunity to dust off the Samsung Application Hub. True multimedia reader, you will find everything for your leisure. Whether it's books, movies, music or games, you will find this modern design of the Samsung Hub release everything you need:

Readability is clear, even more than the Play Store, which sees this as a he could have done competitor

We thus find here everything you need to use our Galaxy S4 media as a tool. Note just the absence of built-in FM radio tuner, which is a shame. In contrast, the dust of the Samsung Hub was necessary, and the manufacturer offers us a tool that makes you want to use, simple and easy to implement.

Group Play is also a little something that will allow you to share your photos, music and videos easily with your friends without having to transfer the files.

But now to the last point of our test, the camera of the Galaxy S4 unit.

Camera

A few years ago, the camera sensor was a gadget on mobile phones. Today, it stands as one of the main selling points for our smartphones, and the Galaxy S4 is no exception to the rule.

The new high-end Samsung comes with a 13 megapixel camera sensor. Unlike the Galaxy S3, the latest newcomer is so tempted by the increased number of pixels.

But contrary to popular belief, the number of pixels does not necessarily increase the quality of the shots. We will see what exactly is the camera of the Galaxy S4 unit.

First, launch the application camera , there is something totally new to the interface:

Note that it is still possible to access the usual parameters through the gear icon:

In the format of videos, you can play on the resolution, but also on the format or 16:9 or 4:3. To enjoy the full resolution of the sensor, it will therefore focus 4:3.

But that's not all, the Galaxy S4 has borrowed some of its Galaxy Camera interface with a carousel principle.Press the Mode just below the trigger and it will show the different pictures of the terminal modes.

Base, the Galaxy S4 is in automatic mode, but you can choose between Drama Shot, Shot & Sound, the Eraser function, panorama mode or night:

Now that we have presented different possible settings at the camera sensor, it is time to take our Galaxy S4 and take pictures of anything that moves (or not) to judge rendering even clichés.

Let's start with a picture in automatic mode:

The same plane, in HDR mode:

Always the same plane, with a 4x digital zoom:

Panning:

Who can offer up to 360 ° angle (for the purposes of publication, we had to reduce the resolution of the picture):

Drama Shot:

Dual Shot:

And its various possible effects:

Now continue with night photography in automatic mode:

And the same picture, with the night mode selected:

Note that for a single image, it is possible to add effects. Take for example this picture:

Of Galaxy S4 interface, a small arrow is present at the bottom. Clicking it brings up several small windows, each with a different effect:

In this way, you can enjoy very simply, without the need for another application:

Fish Eye

Vintage

Other effects are available, but a special mention for the Fish Eye, which is a widely used in photography but this usually very little effect.

Of course, to get a real idea of ​​the evolution of the camera sensor, a comparison with the Galaxy S3 is required. This is what we have achieved through some comparisons.

Single shot in automatic mode:

Galaxy S3

Galaxy S4

Panning mode:

Galaxy S3

Galaxy S4

4x digital zoom:

Galaxy S3

Galaxy S4

Macro:

Galaxy S3

Galaxy S4

Galaxy S3

Galaxy S4

At night, in automatic mode:

Galaxy S3

Galaxy S4

The same picture, with the night mode selected:

Galaxy S3

Galaxy S4

Finally, we offer a compilation of different pictures that we have achieved during our test sensor:

With the Galaxy S4 and its 13 megapixel camera sensor, Samsung has improved a component of the smartphone. Here, nothing revolutionary, the sensor does its job properly, with a slightly higher quality than its predecessor, the Galaxy S3. However, the new high-end South Korean brand continues to fish in low light, although an improvement is noted.

However, the Galaxy S4 provides more detail, with a more accurate color reproduction than the Galaxy S3. At the pan, it is now possible to zoom in on the images with good quality. Note that it is also possible to pan more than 360 °. It is not yet photosphere, but it comes close, with a very good result. Against in-part, and 13 megapixels are no strangers, the weight of the photos is also on the rise. Is approximately 5MB for a classic cliché, when it can climb to 12MB for a panoramic 360 °.

In the interface, you can find damage the disappearance of macro mode, but the results show that the Galaxy S4 is doing very well in this exercise, so the loss is only relative. We also appreciate the visible effects of battery available, even before taking the shot. However, we were disappointed by the average score of Drama Shot.Supposed to take an object or a person moving in a single shot, something quite blur is obtained. This is a shame because on paper, this feature is quite attractive.

Now for the videos, starting with a sequence taken with the Galaxy S3 (remember to put the video in 1080p!)

Then chained with the Galaxy S4 without video stabilizer:

Then adding the video stabilizer:

On this point, the two smartphones are pretty close, even though the Galaxy S4 offers less saturated colors and better brightness, especially against the light. Video stabilization brings a little more, but it is fairly noticeable.

But with the Galaxy S4, Samsung has added a new feature that will appeal to all lovers of photo books. Indeed, with Images Story, you can create this type of support, quite easily after a little grip. Thus it is offered several types of media:

You choose the one that suits you and select the photos you want to appear on the album, directly from the Gallery:

Add text, move the photos, you are completely master your photo album, which presents itself as a perfect alternative to the proposed solutions on the web:

Seen with the application Camera , Samsung has added many features. With our smartphones, we abandon more phones appearance to use the additional functions. The South Korean manufacturer has understood by providing a more than adequate 13 megapixel camera sensor, even if the pictures in low light are the weak point of the device.

As usual, Samsung will soon offer us an update of the camera, with a patch that will, hopefully, fix this little problem. Anyway, the Galaxy S4 may be perfectly device dedicated office picture for your vacation photos or in the life of every day.

Conclusion

Here we are at the end of our test Galaxy S4 and it is time to conclude on the new high-end Samsung.

Presented in March on Apple land, the new flagship of the brand has not been unanimously at its formalization, the fault of a design too similar to the previous generation.

If the design is for you an essential component for your smartphone, then go your way. If the Galaxy S4 does not play primarily on this point, it is better to focus on the many features it carries. Many gadgets, some would say, but who can do more can do less.

Obviously, you will not use on a daily basis all the possibilities offered by the Galaxy S4, but here we find a range of very practical features that can be very useful in some embarrassing situations (Air View, Air Gesture ...) .

Although the Galaxy S4 keeps close to its predecessor design, with the use of polycarbonate, the finish of the unit is really rising. Without being at an iPhone 5, it was really the feeling of a solid and well finished product in hand.

But above all, the great strength of the Galaxy S4 is its screen. Many of you have to give us your feedback on the marketing of Galaxy S4 . And for the vast majority of you, this is the Super AMOLED panel Full HD 5 inch that you most attractive, but it is also our case. This screen is really beautiful, and makes navigating through menus. We even surprised to roam between different offices, aimlessly, just to appreciate the quality of the image.

Of course, the Galaxy S4 is a high-performance smartphone, monopolizing the first place all the benchmarks that we could submit. A little regret, however, it is unfortunate that we have not tasted the Exynos processor 5 Octa. The octo-core chip seems particularly promising, especially in terms of autonomy, and his presentation at CES in Las Vegas, whetted our appetite. Hopefully this processor Exynos 5 Octa be present in the future Galaxy Note 3.

Autonomy. This is a point we have not discussed so far, and yet crucial for many of us. A few weeks ago, our colleagues GSM Arena had spent the Galaxy S4 endurance test :

With a range of 63h, the new high-end Samsung presents itself as less energy in its class, with 15 hours of additional autonomy that HTC and Sony Xperia Z. One But you can always call into question the results and that these tests are not representative of daily use. However, after hours to use the camera in all directions at once benchmarks, photos, Wi-Fi or full screen brightness, the Galaxy S4 surprised us by the good performance of the battery (Li-Ion 2600mAh).

Without any difficulty, you can use your smartphone for a whole day without having to recharge the box, and without looking at the type of applications you run. In normal use (internet, social networking, GPS, Wi-Fi, music), you can expect to take a day and a half without too much trouble, or even two days. You can even hope to go beyond that, if you start using the automatic brightness and put into action the energy savings.

Last, the camera. If Samsung has not brought here with a big revolution sensor 13 megapixels, the result is more accurate, with a new interface, intuitive and beautiful, and many features that will delight many. It may be noted the possibility of panoramic 360 °, even if S is absent from Orb Galaxy S4. Let's just an update allows quickly improve shooting in low light.

In short, you'll understand that we have been conquered by the Galaxy S4. However, Samsung should not rest on its laurels, because the competition is increasingly sharp. For the next generation, the South Korean manufacturer may need to do more daring to continue to dominate the smartphone market and more specifically Android devices.

Thanks to eXpansys for loan Galaxy S4. And do not forget that for every purchase of a Galaxy S4, you get a 16GB microSD card offered or Security pack in here .