Samsung Galaxy S5 test photo leaked, 16MP camera and software features detailed
We’ve had a good feeling Samsung would put an emphasis on improving the camera tech in their Galaxy flagship. In fact, it was only yesterday Samsung teased us with some information regarding a key component of the Galaxy S5’s camera: its enhanced LED flash module.
Camera hardware
Today, the boys at SamMobile (the same guys who detailed the S5’s fingerprint scanning home button) are spilling the beans on a few of the Samsung Galaxy S5’s camera and software features. Where previous rumors and leaks couldn’t quite decide if the device would come equipped with a 20MP or 16MP, it’s now being reported that 16 will be Samsung’s magic number for the S5.
But just in case you needed further proof, @evleaks posted a sample photo taken by the AT&T version of the Galaxy S5. Although the photo was out of focus and didn’t reveal much in terms of quality, the resolution was revealed at 5312 x 2988 (15.9MP), once again confirming reports of a 16MP shooter. The 16MP camera (and processor) will be capable of capturing 4K at 30fps video, or 1080p at 60fps.
You may remember Samsung talking about their new ISOCELL technology which provides for photos with enhanced dynamic range but unfortunately, it’s still uncertain if the S5 will come equipped with this new tech.
Dedicated shutter button
If being able to take your phone out your pocket and snap pictures in an instant is important to you, Samsung will be including a dedicated camera button on the device, but it’s not the hardware button you’ve seen on other devices. Instead, Samsung will be using a sort of capacitive button along the side of the device (where a hardware shutter button is normally located) dubbed “Side Touch.” The button will only be active when the phone is in landscape mode, and will be disabled while holding the phone in portrait mode, while recording video, etc.. Could be nice but we’ll never understand why OEMs are so against including traditional hardware buttons for smartphone cameras?
Software features
With that out of the way, we can get into some of the software features and in typical Samsung fashion, there are a boatload of them. The S5 camera app will be given a UI overhaul to match the new TouchWiz and similar to Samsung’s mirrorless cameras, will allow more experienced users to adjust settings like the ISO, and choose between modes like HDR, Panorama, and all new for the Galaxy S5: 3D Tour Shot. Tour Shot is essentially Android’s PhotoSphere feature, but it’s unclear if Samsung will be adding anything special to the mix.
Also mentioned was Mosaic Shot, Smile Shot, Frame Shot, Vintage, Cartoon, Add Me, Action Shot, Stop Motion, Cartoon and Pet modes, although no description was given (so, you’ll just have to use your imagination for now). Expect all the other shooting modes from the Galaxy S4 to make a reappearance in the S5.
If custom effects/filters are what you’re after, Samsung will reportedly include a bevy (around 30 in all) with additional effects being made available for download as well.
And that just about does it for the Galaxy S5’s camera. Of course, we could talk about specs and features til will blue in the face, but the real moment of truth comes when we have actual test shots to mull over (you know, ones that are actually in focus). Samsung’s optics have rarely disappointed so we’re excited to see how they’ve improved in the Galaxy S5.
Samsung is planning to unveil the Galaxy S5 during their Unpacked 5 event in Barcelona, Spain on Monday the 24th. Of course, Phandroid will be in attendance for the event, bringing you our own hands-on and early impressions of the Galaxy S5 and more in our Mobile World Congress 2014 coverage kicking off next week. Only a few more days, guys!