Samsung Galaxy S8 to feature facial recognition, digital assistant
Following months of rumors and speculation, Samsung confirmed in its announcement for the highly-anticipated Galaxy S8 that the phone will feature facial, iris and fingerprint recognition to deliver improved security for mobile banking and other sensitive applications, according to a report by Bloomberg.
Though some previous Galaxy models allowed users to unlock their device using a facial scanner, the S8 marks the first Samsung model to encrypt facial data.
The S8, which comes in a standard 5.8-inch display model and a Plus version with a 6.2-inch screen, will also feature slimmer bezels alongside a streamlined display with curves on all four corners.
The announcement comes a couple months after leaked photos of the S8 surfaced, revealing tempered glass screen protectors displaying nearly non-existent bezels.
The phone also features a digital assistant called Bixby that is similar to Apple’s Siri and Amazon’s Alexa.
The service, which can be activated by pressing the side button on the device, analyzes the owner’s activities to provide helpful tips and information.
Bixby’s system comprises of several parts including a standard component, a Siri-like voice control view, and a list view of upcoming calendar appointments and reminders.
The feature is also integrated with the camera, allowing it to identify various objects. In addition, S8 users can operate many of the device’s functions via voice instead of the touchscreen.
Samsung Galaxy S8 is now available for pre-order in advance of its April 21 release.
Reports surfaced earlier this month that Samsung’s Galaxy S8 would include a facial recognition feature for mobile payments in the coming months.
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