Samsung launches first 4G smartphones in S. Korea

Samsung Electronics, the world's second-largest manufacturer of mobile phones, launched its first smartphones based on fourth-generation (4G) communication technology in a bid to meet growing demand for high-speed wireless services. Galaxy S2 LTE and Galaxy S2 HD LTE compatible with long- term evolution (LTE) technology were rolled out at a media event held in central Seoul on Monday. The two new smartphones support LTE with data transmission five times faster than the existing third-generation (3G) mobile phones, featuring functions offered by Galaxy S2 smartphones, the company said. The Galaxy S2 LTE is equipped with an Android 2.3, or the latest version of the Android platform, a 4.5-inch wide Super AMOLED display and a 1.5 gigahertz dual core processor, while the Galaxy S2 HD LTE is featuring a 4.65-inch high-definition (HD) AMOLED display with 110 percent natural color reproduction and 180- degree viewing angle. "The 4G LTE technology became the base for enjoying high-speed and high-resolution wireless services. The new products will meet rising demand for such services in an environment where global wireless operators are transitioning to 4G networks," Shin Jong-kyun, president and head of Samsung's mobile communications business, told reporters. Shin forecast sales of the new LTE smartphones would approach the ones of the existing Galaxy S series, adding that it may take time to reach the goal as the LTE networks have yet to be covered nationwide. Global sales of the Galaxy S2 smartphones reached more than 10 million units since its debut in April, according Samsung. The nation's top wireless carrier SK Telecom plans to offer LTE service nationwide by 2013, with the country's No. 3 mobile operator LG Uplus aiming to cover the service across the country next year.