The official presentation marks the end of it all. Rumors, leaks, photos, leaked specifications… When the Galaxy S3 is unveiled, we'll be able to see if any of the recent reports about Samsung's new phone were accurate, and if so, how accurate. One of those checks will be verifying the authenticity of the photo accompanying this post . In it, we can see a supposed Galaxy S3 with a 4,8-inch screen.
The display size has been one of the most fluctuating aspects, with almost every measurement falling within the four-inch to five-inch range. However, as reported by Know Your Mobile, the Galaxy S3 will finally have a 4,8-inch screen. To support this, they published a photograph allegedly sent to them by a source, showing the device next to a ruler. This screen size is gaining the most traction. In the specifications of the supposedly leaked user manual, this figure was repeated for a Super AMOLED display with HD resolution of 1280 x 720 (approximately 306 ppi), a PenTile matrix, and Gorilla Glass 2 protection.
The same image also reveals the device's dimensions and shape . At around 136 millimeters tall , and with those rounded edges, the phone is very reminiscent of my Nexus S and the Galaxy Nexus. But in terms of size, it's also, logically, related to its predecessor, the Galaxy S2.
The photograph doesn't clarify much further. There are no visible physical buttons on the front . But that could be because they only become visible once the device is turned on or unlocked.
No further details are available. But these dimensions and appearance add to what we've already written here. The Galaxy S3 will have a quad-core Exynos processor (at least in Europe), with Ice Cream Sandwich as the default, as expected, and a camera that some say will be 8 megapixels and others 12 megapixels . We'll find out how accurate these reports were on the day of the presentation.
4,8-inch display: technology, clarity, and durability
The star of the show is its 4,8-inch Super AMOLED display with 720p HD resolution and a pixel density of nearly 306 ppi , enough for viewing text and graphics with great definition. The PenTile matrix prioritizes energy efficiency and deep blacks, while Gorilla Glass 2 adds a layer of resistance against scratches and minor impacts. Features like Smart Stay use the camera to keep the screen on when you're looking at it, and Pop Up Play lets you play video in a floating window while using other apps.
Dimensions, design and materials
The polycarbonate casing keeps the weight around 133 grams and a thickness of 8,6 mm , with minimal bezels to maximize usable surface area. The rounded design improves grip and it comes in multiple colors such as marble white , stone blue , titanium gray , amber brown , and sapphire black . In the final design, Samsung retains the front button and adds a notification LED to the chassis.
Performance, memory and connectivity
Inside, the 1,4 GHz Exynos 4412 Quad processor with Mali-400 MP4 GPU delivers smooth performance in apps and games at HD resolution. It features 1 GB of RAM ( 1,5 GB in the S3 Neo ) and 16/32/64 GB of storage , expandable up to 64 GB via microSD . The removable 2.100 mAh battery balances battery life with a lightweight design, and a wireless charging pad is available as an official accessory.
Connectivity includes HSPA+ , NFC , Bluetooth 4.0 , Wi-Fi a/b/g/n , GPS with GLONASS , and video output via MHL (microUSB). Some LTE variants use a different SoC (Qualcomm) for that compatibility. It was one of the first to support VoLTE in compatible markets.
Camera and smart features
The main camera is 8 MP with 1080p recording , and the front camera is 1,9 MP with 720p video . It includes modes such as burst (up to 3,3 photos/sec), Best Shot to select the best shot, photo capture during video recording , and back-illuminated sensors to improve low-light scenes.
Software highlights include Smart Stay , Direct Call (hold the phone to your ear from a message to place a call), Pop Up Play , S Voice , and sharing features like Group Cast and the AllShare dongle. Later updates added improvements such as multi-window support in certain versions.
Variants and related models
In addition to the international model, there are variants such as the GT-I9305 (with LTE) or the SGH-I747 for specific carriers. The Galaxy S3 Neo retains the 4,8″ HD screen , adds 1,5 GB of RAM , and keeps the 8 MP camera and 2.100 mAh battery , designed for those who prefer balanced performance in the same form factor.
Screen Repair and Replacement Parts: Key Points
If you need to repair the screen, remember that the Galaxy S3 doesn't use an LCD : it uses a Super AMOLED display . Therefore, replacement screens on the market come as complete units that include the panel and digitizer , and sometimes the frame to facilitate installation. Choosing the complete unit with the frame reduces the risk of damage, as you won't have to handle small parts.
Replacing only the glass is possible but complex: it requires LOCA adhesive and specific equipment (e.g., a vacuum chamber) to avoid air pockets or oil effects when applying the replacement. Screens are generally compatible across variants such as the I9300, I747, T999, I535, and L710 , although it's always advisable to verify the model number before purchasing. If you lack experience, it's best to consult a professional repair service to ensure the integrity of your device.
The choice of a 4,8-inch screen is understandable given its balance between manageable size, sharpness, and efficiency; the combination of design, performance, and smart features further solidified the relevance of the Galaxy S3 and established that format as the benchmark for its generation.
