Samsung Galaxy Beam2 Full Specs Prices Pros & Cons Unveiled

Overview of Samsung Galaxy Beam2

The Samsung Galaxy Beam2, released in 2014, is a unique smartphone model that combines basic smartphone functionality with a projector feature. This device catered to a niche market of users interested in projecting media content directly from their phone, a feature not commonly found in other mobile devices of its time. While discontinued, it remains a point of interest for tech enthusiasts exploring the evolution of smartphone capabilities.

Design and Build

The Galaxy Beam2 features a solid and functional design. It measures 134.5 x 70 x 11.6 mm and weighs 165 grams, making it relatively bulky compared to its contemporaries, largely due to the built-in projector. The device is constructed with a micro-SIM slot and showcases a grey silver color, providing a sleek yet industrial look. The dimensions suggest a phone that is more robust and designed to handle the additional hardware of the projector comfortably.

Display and Interface

The phone has a 4.66-inch TFT display with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels. This screen size offers a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 65.6%, and a pixel density of about 200 pixels per inch, which is relatively modest but adequate for basic media viewing and interface interaction. The choice of TFT technology is indicative of the era's standard technology, though it may not offer the vibrant colors and deep contrasts available in more premium displays.

Performance and Software

Samsung equipped the Galaxy Beam2 with a quad-core 1.2 GHz processor, sufficient for handling basic smartphone tasks such as browsing, messaging, and media playback. It runs on Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean, a user-friendly operating system at the time, offering a straightforward and customizable user experience. While not equipped for high-performance applications or advanced features, it provides a stable platform for its primary use-case scenarios.

Camera Capabilities

The device includes a 5 MP autofocus rear camera with an LED flash, capable of capturing basic snapshots and video. Although not designed as a high-performance camera phone, it is functional for casual photography. The phone also includes a front-facing camera, adequate for the occasional selfie and video calls, though specific details regarding its resolution are not prominently highlighted.

Unique Projector Feature

The standout feature of the Samsung Galaxy Beam2 is its integrated projector. This feature allows users to project videos, presentations, and other media content onto any flat surface, transforming the phone into a portable media sharing tool. The ability to project content created an interesting niche for those needing on-the-go projection capabilities without additional equipment.

Connectivity and Network

The Galaxy Beam2 supports GSM and HSPA network technologies, offering 2G and 3G connectivity. It includes standard features like Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, and a GPS with GLONASS capabilities. However, it lacks NFC and radio features, which could limit some connectivity options compared to other smartphones.

Battery Life

The phone is powered by a removable Li-Ion 2600 mAh battery, providing a reasonable battery life given its hardware and functionalities. The removable nature of the battery is a practical feature, allowing users to replace the battery if needed, which is particularly useful when using the projector frequently, as it can drain the battery more quickly than standard phone use.

Storage Options

The Samsung Galaxy Beam2 comes with a microSDXC slot, allowing users to expand storage as per their requirements. This feature accommodates additional capacity for media storage, crucial for anyone leveraging the projector for business presentations or entertainment purposes.

Audio and Sound Features

The device is equipped with a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm audio jack, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio accessories and providing satisfactory audio output for various multimedia content.

Sensors and Additional Features

Additionally, the Galaxy Beam2 includes basic sensors such as an accelerometer, gyro, proximity, and compass, offering essential functionalities that aid in navigation and daily use applications.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Beam2 represents an interesting exploration in smartphone technology through its integrated projector, setting it apart from typical smartphone offerings. While its hardware specifications reflect the era of its release, its projector feature offers significant utility for specific use cases, particularly for users who value portability in presentation tools. Despite its discontinuation, the Beam2 remains a fascinating case study in innovative smartphone design, blending traditional functions with unique features to meet niche market demands.