Samsung gives run of Galaxy to iPhone malcontents

Samsung UK's attempt to jab Apple is now known to also include giveaways of free phones. Some iPhone 4 owners complaining of reception problems, whether directly related to the "death grip" or not, are being offered free Galaxy S phones, in some cases receiving them the same day as the notice. The Korean company explained the handouts as a way to "spread the word."

The giveaways are limited, although a separate contest is handing away phones regardless of complaints.

Samsung's phone isn't immune to antenna issues of its own, but the company is confident enough in the phone to have quickly made it the company's worldwide flagship device, quickly replacing attempts like the Omnia II and the Wave. The Android 2.1 phone is its technological showcase and has a self-developed 1GHz processor, a four-inch Super AMOLED screen that can be seen about as well as LCDs outdoors, and 720p video capture. Unlike most of its launches, the Galaxy S has had a near-simultaneous worldwide launch and was even unveiled for five US carriers at the same time in slightly different versions.

Samsung is one of the world's largest phone producers, but in smartphones it trails well behind Nokia, Apple, RIM, HTC and Motorola as it only recently began to focus on high-end devices and to use Android instead of the aging Symbian and Windows Mobile platforms.

(image via Tiffany Nieuwland)

By Electronista Staff