Rumors continue to heat up ahead of the expected unveiling of the Galaxy S5. This time, a Korean website claims that its sources said the handset will be dustproof and waterproof.
Galaxy S5 to be waterproof
According to ZDNet Korea, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (LON:BC94) (KRX:005930) will include the same waterproof feature it has already used in its Galaxy S4 Active handset, which is aimed at outdoor enthusiasts. The feature allows users to use water to clean the phone because it will be able to withstand short periods of being submerged in water.
Samsung expected to add fingerprint scanner
The website also claims that Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (LON:BC94) (KRX:005930) will follow in the footsteps of Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) and include a fingerprint scanner in the handset. It said users will be able to swipe the home button to scan their fingerprint and unlock the handset. This differs from how Apple’s Touch ID fingerprint scanner works, as it requires users to press their finger down on the home button. Samsung is said to be using chips from U.S. fingerprint technology company Validity for the Galaxy S5.
ZDNet Korea also said that while Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) covered its fingerprint scanner in sapphire glass, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (LON:BC94) (KRX:005930) will coat its fingerprint scanner with an ultra-violet coating.
Galaxy S5 expected to be unveiled next week
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (LON:BC94) (KRX:005930) is widely expected to reveal the Galaxy S5 next week at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. However, ZDNet Korea reports that its sources at a local parts supplier said they have not yet received any orders for parts. The sources speculated that since the Korean electronics giant hasn’t yet placed orders for the parts, the company might retain its “core features” while changing some of the “peripheral features.”
They also said that if Samsung places orders at the end of this month or the beginning of next month, then the Galaxy S5 could be “commercialized” as soon as the end of next month.
