Galaxy S4 hidden innovation

The Samsung Galaxy S4 is a treasure trove of hidden features and technology. While some may say that not everything Samsung have included on their latest device is necessary, it is quite amazing just how much hardware and software the device comes with out of the box. According to the infographic below from Samsung Tomorrow, there are a total of 9 sensors in the Galaxy S4 that are probing the world around the device. Whilst you may be familiar with some, I’m willing to bet not everyone would guess all 9! After the image, I’ll provide a brief run down of what each sensor does and which relevant Samsung apps they interact with on the S4.

Proximity Sensor Most devices feature a proximity sensor – this uses infrared rays to determine how close an object is to the device. Normally used to black out the display during voice calls.

Gyro Sensor Can detect the orientation of the S4 in 3 dimensions. Whilst mostly used to change from portrait to landscape screen display, many games utilise this as an input method. Also makes for a good spirit level application.

Accelerometer Similar to the gyro, this detects the movement of the device in three dimensions. This can be used to determine the speed and plane of movement and is put to use in the S Health Walking Mate app to turn the S4 into a pedometer.

Geomagnetic Sensor This determines the surrounding magnetic field strength of the Earth in 3 dimensions and is used to great affect in the Digital Compass and mapping apps available on the S4.

Temperature / Humidity Sensor This one is quite self explanatory and is used in TouchWiz by the S Health Comfort Level app.

Barometer The S Health Walking Mate app is the culprit again here as the barometer measures the atmospheric pressure around the device and combines this information with your current location.

Hall Sensor Used primarily for working with the Samsung Galaxy S4 S View cover, this detects when the cover has been opened or closed to change the screen display accordingly.

RGB Light Sensor The secret behind Samsung Adapt Display, this sensor checks the component intensities of red, green and blue from the light in your environment and adjusts the display to suit, changing not only the brightness but the colour saturation too.

Gesture Sensor Last but not least, Samsung’s much vaunted Air Gesture technology is powered by this unassuming sensor. Able to track your hand movements over the screen, Air Gesture can scroll and swipe information on the screen without you ever needing to touch the screen.

The post Galaxy S4 hidden innovation appeared first on Clove Technology’s Blog.

Clove Technology’s Blog – for the latest news, reviews and advice on smartphones, tablets and accessories.