We knew it wouldn’t be long before Samsung tries to take its new metallic, unibody devices to other markets and it seems that one of its first stops is in China. The Galaxy A5, more formally known as the SM-A5000, has just landed on Samsung’s Chinese web front in an attempt to bring a slightly familiar design (resembling some competitor’s device) to a market that is increasingly getting dominated by Apple and Xiaomi.
There are practically no differences between this and the Galaxy A5 revealed last month, except for one feature important to this particular market. The Chinese version, like many smartphones in that region, sports a dual SIM configuration. It also supports both China Mobile’s and China Unicom’s LTE networks, meaning both LTE-FDD and TD-LTE.
In all other aspects, you get the same 1.2 GHz quad-core Qualcomm processor, a 5-inch Full HD Super AMOLED display, 2 GB of RAM, 16 GB of internal storage expandable to 64 GB via a microSD card slot (something the first Galaxy Alpha did not have), and a 2,300 mAh battery. All of those are packed in that premium-looking metal design indicative of Samsung’s new line. The unibody structure, unfortunately, means that the battery is not replaceable.
Another highlight of the Galaxy A5 are the cameras. Though mid-range, the smartphone boasts of a decent 13 megapixel rear shooter. Selfie lovers might love the 5 megapixel front camera that uses a wide-angle lens to accommodate more people in groufies/wefies. Software features also augment the mobile photography experience, like the gesture-activated self-timer that will make selfies much easier to pull off.
The Samsung Galaxy A5 or SM-A5000 will sell in China for 2,599 RMB or around $423. It will come in five color options of black, white, pink, gold, and silver.
SOURCE: Samsung
The Galaxy A5 is the five-inch model, with a 720p Super AMOLED display and a 1.2GHz processor — it’s a relatively middleweight specification but it’s probably what ensures Samsung were able to squeeze down the dimensions.