It is not ridiculous to hear predictions about far off devices like the next Samsung Galaxy smartphone in a tech world that is filled with anxious analysts. In the latest rumor, Android Geeks says that the Samsung Galaxy S5 will come with a sophisticated aluminum body designed under Samsung’s “Design 3.0” strategy.
The uni-body metal construction will not be without drawbacks. First of all, it will no longer allow for a removable battery, a handy feature that frequent travelers have appreciated until now. The presence of a microSD slot will be unlikely. Next, supply shortages are likely, an issue that has hampered the current HTC One supply. Sometime ago, Samsung indicated that plastic casings have allowed speedy manufacture to meet market demand, and facilitated simultaneous and global release of its products. Finally, an all-metal device will bear a higher price tag.
Nevertheless, a metal design will equip Samsung to compete better with rival companies like Apple, HTC and Sony that are already delivering premium devices built of aluminum and glass. In fact, the Galaxy S4’s rival HTC One has received positive reviews for its sleek and sturdy metal body, which according to many, renders a more premium look than the Galaxy S4’s plastic build.
Another rumored spec of the Galaxy S5 is a flexible display, i.e., a metal body with a glass or plastic display that enwraps the edges of the device and can bend. The display will likely be unbreakable and have 3D features.
If rumors are true, the Galaxy S5 – expected around spring 2014 – would be Samsung’s first high-end device featuring an all-metal design. The Galaxy Note 3, expected by September, will feature the usual plastic body. It is too early to say whether Samsung will adopt a metal design or hesitate to abandon plastic shells if it hurts sales.