If we look at what happened with the Samsung Galaxy S4, we may have reason to expect a Galaxy Note 3 Google Edition, as the South Korean company's flagship ended up launching with a software version developed by the Mountain View company. However, we'll have to wait and see if Samsung takes the necessary steps to launch this new version.
The circumstances are really different with respect to the time of the Galaxy S4 Google Edition. At that time, Google was about to announce system news. In addition, much of the market was expecting a new Nexus, and there was talk that it might be launched at the event. However, in the end, no new Google-branded device was launched, but the Galaxy S4 Google Edition was launched.
Right now we could compare the situation and see a similar approach to the launch of 4.4 Android KitKat, and a possible new Galaxy Note 3 Google Edition.
Even so, he has two enemies. On the one hand, that this time he could be launched new Nexus really, the rumors are constant, and Google would repeat the strategy of launching it in this time of year. On the other hand, it would face another problem. Google was facing the threat of an antitrust investigation. Having LG, another company, manufacture its Nexus would clear up any doubts. However, now it wouldn't need Google to back this up, especially with another company like MotorolaWe'll have to wait and see, but a new Galaxy Note 3 would definitely be a bestseller end of the year.
What would a Galaxy Note 3 Google Edition bring?
A hypothetical Google Play edition would imply cleaner software, with Pure Android, faster updates and less dependence on TouchWiz. In return, certain advanced features linked to the S Pen (Air Command, Wacom pressure recognition or deep Multi Window) could be limited, since many rely on the Samsung layer and its services.
Key specifications confirmed
The Galaxy Note 3 arrives with a screen 5,7-inch Super AMOLED and Full HD resolution (386 dpi) protected with Gorilla Glass 3. Inside, depending on the market, it mounts Snapdragon 800 at 2,3 GHz with Adreno 330 GPU (LTE) or Octa 5 Exynos 5420 with Mali-T628 GPU (GSM). It is accompanied by 3 GB of RAM LPDDR3 and 32/64 GB of storage with microSD up to 64 GB.
Its chassis 8,3 mm and 168g houses a removable battery 3200 mAh. The cameras are 13 MP (f/2.2, 1/3.1", EIS, 4K at 30 fps, Full HD at 60 fps and HD at 120 fps) and a 2 MP front camera with 1080p recording. It offers microUSB 3.0 with OTG, infrared, NFC, WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac MIMO, Bluetooth 4.0 LE, A-GPS/GLONASS and LTE Cat.4 (up to 150/50 Mbps).
Includes a complete set of sensors: accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, barometer, proximity, ambient light, temperature and humidity, in addition to ANT+. Audio supports output up to 192 kHz / 24-bit, and the SAR in the EU is around 0,29 W/kg (head).
Software, S Pen and features
Arrives with Android 4.3 from factory and official update to Android 5.0. The community has brought ROMs up to Android 11 (requires root and TWRP). With TouchWiz they are added Air Command (Action Memo, Scrapbook, Screen Write, S Finder and Pen Window), Improved Multi Window, Knox for professional use, one-handed mode, Kids Mode and Air View.
The S Pen offers high pressure sensitivity and tapping, writing in any text field, and optimized apps. S Note integrates Easy Chart and synchronization with EvernoteNotable apps and services include:
- S Voice, S Notes, S Finder, Photo Editor
- Google, YouTube, Google+, Gmail, Play Store
- Galaxy Apps, WatchON (IR), ChatON, Flipboard
Network versions and compatibility
There are variants such as SM-N900 (GSM/HSPA), SM-N9005 (LTE) and regional editions. Supports quad-band 2G, HSPA (850/900/1900/2100), and, depending on the model, multi-band LTE. Uses microSIM and maintains the dedicated microSD slot. The form factor is phablet and is not certified water resistant.
Performance, battery and multimedia
With the combo Snapdragon 800/Exynos and 3GB of RAM, the Note 3 is extremely fluid even with multi-window and Knox running side by side. Benchmarks place it at the level of the best of its generation. The 3200mAh battery offers full time of heavy use and the port USB 3.0 speeds up transfers and improves wired charging.
On camera, in addition to sharp photos in good light, the 4K video with great detail (at the expense of space), and Full HD at 60 fps. Automatic mode performs solidly in low light, while manual options are more limited in exposure.
For those looking for a powerful phablet, with large screenWith solid battery life and a truly useful stylus, the Galaxy Note 3 remains a very well-rounded bet; if a Google Edition does end up happening, it will be key to assess the balance between the cleanliness of pure Android and the unique capabilities that TouchWiz brings to the S Pen.
