The challenge
Samsung proudly launched the successor of their Galaxy SII on Nov 6, titled as the Galaxy SII Skyrocket. Giving close competition to it is Apple’s iPhone 4S which was recently unveiled on Oct 4.
With a quick comparison, Samsung’s latest gadget runs on Google’s Android and incorporates 2.3.5 Gingerbread OS, Scorpion dual core processor, Adreno 220 GPU, Qualcomm APQ 8060 Snaprdragon Chipset and a 4.5 inch super AMOLED plus display.
On the other hand, its close competitor, iPhone 4S runs on 1GHz dual core ARM Cortex A9 processor, PowerVR SGX543MP2 GPU and a 3.5 inch TFT Retina multi touch display along with the Apple iOS5.
If you notice carefully, both the gadgets play on the most important need of the consumer, namely the urge to own the best. With technology ruling the roost, the companies have outdone themselves when it comes to delivering the best possible.
Comparison Attributes
Camera
Samsung has incorporated a neat 8MP camera into its latest gadget, giving 3264×2448 resolution pictures. Along with the HD camera, you can also expect to have access to auto focus, LED flash, image stabilization, geo tagging, touch focus, last but not the least, face and smile detection. If you really want to make happening video calls, then there is a secondary camera in the front providing you with 2 MP of clear video calling facility.
iPhone 4S also comes equipped with a cool 8MP camera giving you 3264×2448 pixels of resolution. Along with the camera quality, you can expect to have touch focus, geo tagging, and face detection. As far as the video calling is concerned, there is an additional VGA camera in the front, allowing you to enjoy calls to a greater extent.
Winner: No winner as both have the same attributes
Software
The software of the new Samsung entrant is nothing spectacular, to be honest. With not much difference than its predecessor, Skyrocket runs solely on Android 2.3.5 preinstalled software and comes all dressed up with a TouchWiz 4.0 on top. Along with the OS, you get a lot of cool funky applications as well, taking the phone a notch up over its predecessor.
Treading on the same path, Apple iPhone 4S has made use of iOS 5 for its processing purposes. Accompanying the OS are a bunch of really cool and happening applications available only with the iPhone. Apps like Newsstand, Reminders, Cards Family and Friends are all a part of this new gadget. The really cool feature of the phone is the Siri app, enabling speech to text application.
Winner: iPhone 4S owing to the introduction of new applications and a happening set of apps
Display
Galaxy S II Skyrocket has been made with a lot of precision and care, when it comes to the display. Carrying a massive 4.5 inch super AMOLED Screen, the 480×800 pixel screen has no end absolutely. Adding another two inches to the size of its predecessor’s screen, the phone exudes a lot of vibrancy and colorful displays. Couple this up with a set of big keys and an on screen key board and you would get a ready winner on your hands.
On the other hand, the iPhone has a 3.5 inch widescreen multi touch display, giving the phone an edge over technology. The 960×640 pixel exudes a 800:a contrast ratio while its carries forth a 500cd max brightness level along with it. There is a fingerprint resistant coating on the front as well as the back of the phone, making the touchscreen experience all the more interesting. Last but not the least is the retina display which is the new feature in the iPhone variant.
Winner: iPhone 4S basis the superior design and quality
Battery life
When it comes to battery backup, nothing can outsmart the iPhone. With the battery backup ready to kill even the smartest of phones, Apple has shone a path to all those who need to stay connected always.
On a single charge, the iPhone can run upto 7 hours and 41 minutes. If you’re more of a net geek, then you can browse upto 6 hours and 56 minutes without interruption. Enjoy upto 9 hours and 24 minutes of non stop video playback through the iPhone 4S.
Winner: iPhone 4S
Design
Adjusting the 4.5 inch screen within itself, Skyrocket has a super sonic 800×480 pixel AMOLED screen. The plastic body has been carved out with a neat look, making the phone responsive to sensitive touches. The phone has been configured to understand motion bumps and moves, letting the user manipulate the phone according to the needs of the hour.
There are four touch sensor controls which further give way to the home, menu, back and search functions. The left area has been dedicated to the volume button while the right area has been dictated by the power/lock.
Like its predecessor, the iPhone has remained to be 3.5 inches in size. Giving a strong competition to the other Android carriers, the phone has emerged pretty much an obvious choice. The Retina Display is not ceasing to be the cause of envy for other mobile manufacturers. With inbuilt antennas and sensors, the phone has absolutely no problems in letting people know of its true worth.
Winner: iPhone 4S basis the sleeker design
The verdict
Emerging as a clear winner between the fight of features is the iPhone 4S, making Apple stand proud. Giving you a match of features with the current price, the phone has proved to be a winner all through the way. A stronger battery backup, excellent, sleek design, a collection of happening, trendy applications and looks to die for, you name it and Apple has it.
Running below its surface is the iOS5, incorporating the latest possible technology and features, the iPhone has been a clear winner hands down. What is yet to see is, how many more makers are going to try and copy the iPhone design and try and break the record which the great conglomerate has set for itself.