Samsung Galaxy J7, Galaxy J5 Release Date, Specs, Features and Price: Phones Launched In India Underpowered

By Peter R - 13 May '16 22:40PM

Samsung has done it yet again! Launching an underpowered device after unveiling a loaded variant in China.

The Chinese launch of the Galaxy J7 (2016) in March put an end to speculation that the company may not upgrade its J-series line-up this year. The phone received positive reviews for its 3 GB RAM, octa-core processor and Full HD AMOLED display with a reasonable 3,300 mAh battery, representing a big jump over last year's device. It was launched with its smaller cousin, J5 (2016), triggering speculation of a worldwide launch.

The two phones soon surfaced on European websites of Samsung and rumors were rife it could be launched in South Korea and India. Cut to April, Samsung launches the devices in South Korea but the Galaxy J7 is underpowered. It features 2 GB RAM and a HD screen. The India launch of the device followed this week and to the surprise of many, Samsung did a repeat of South Korea.

Many wonder if the Galaxy J7 (2016) is any improvement over last year's device which featured the same screen and just about 0.5 GB less RAM. Though the processor and chipset on the current device are said to be tad better, the year-on-year improvement may leave a lot wanting. The first reviews of the devices indicate just that.

Many have pointed out that the competition in India is offering more at a price less than the Galaxy J7 (2016) list price of $ 238. Perhaps competition from local phone-makers like Xiaomi, known for releasing loaded devices, drove Samsung to offer a more powerful Galaxy J7 in China.

Samsung however launched the same Galaxy J5 (2016) in three Asian countries. It is powered by a quad-core processor with Snapdragon chipset and 2 GB RAM. With a smaller 5.2-inch HD screen it offers better resolution than its bigger cousin, the J-series flagship J7. Both devices feature the same 13 MP rear camera with f/1.9 borrowed from last year. Launch in three Asian countries should have provided the company adequate feedback for European launches.