Samsung’s new flagship is just about to release on February 25^th, replacing the S8 model. Here are the main rumored differences between the two flagship generations.

In terms of outer design, not much is expected to change. Samsung Galaxy S9 is expected to feature a metal-built core with front and back glass coverage, the same curved edges and IP68-grade protection against mechanical shocks. The Infinity Display will be carried over from the S8, so no major difference here.

Samsung Galaxy S9 versus Samsung Galaxy S8

However, the rear of the phone brings a considerable amount of change. The fingerprint scanner moves below the camera, ensuring a better suited position, however not completely separated from the lens.

The Infinity display was the first smartphone screen to provide an 18.5:9 aspect ratio, and it seems that the Galaxy S9 is going to maintain the same view. The size of the smartphone is rumored not to change, as the S9 model will feature a 5.8-inch display with the bigger 6.2-inch screen available on the S9+. The size is exactly the same with the Galaxy S8 and S8+. It is very likely that Samsung will stick to AMOLED screen with HDR and 2960×1440 resolution.

Hardware

When it comes to hardware, most indications point towards either the latest Qualcomm processor or Samsung’s Exynos unit. It appears that Exynos 9810-based phones will be available in regions like UK while the Snapdragon 845 units will be launched in a more general area.

Even though performance improvements are expected from the new generation chipsets, don’t get your hopes high in terms of battery life. However, enhanced security features such as face recognition and iris scanning are expected to push through the next level. Furthermore, both platforms should work well with AI tasks, providing a better experience with virtual assistants such as Bixby or Google Assistant.

Camera Galaxy S9 vs Galaxy S8

As odd as it may seem camera improvements won’t focus on pushing even more megapixels into the sensor. Instead, both the S9 and S9+ are expected to provide a dual aperture function which will provide a low light f/1.5 aperture and an f/2.4 aperture with the same lens. Better zoom is expected with the Galaxy S9+, rumored to be provided with dual lens camera, presumably the same as the Note 8.

Apps and UI

As far as software goes, it’s pretty much obvious by now that Android Oreo will accompany both the Galaxy S9 and S9+. Since Samsung hasn’t rushed the latest Oreo updates towards the S8 nor the Note 8, it’s almost certain that the new software version will be first shipped with the S9 and S9+ terminal, making it look fresher.

Also, Bixby along with a list of AI-oriented features are packed within the smartphone. While there may not be a strong difference in terms of software between the S8 and S9, it is fully expected that the models will be fully compatible with each other.

In conclusion, we can expect the biggest changes for the Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ to revolve around its camera, while the design and screen will keep the looks of Galaxy S8. More processing power is expected to be available under the hood; sadly, the slim design won’t guarantee better battery life.