Android Guru: One Galaxy S III to rule them all

Monday, June 4, 2012

One Galaxy S III to rule them all

To say the US launch of the Samsung Galaxy S and Galaxy S II didn't exactly go off without a hitch would be an understatement. Thinking back on both devices brings back memories of unexplained delays, terrible names, and more design changes than you can shake a stick at. Fortunately, this time around, things seem different. In keeping with manufacturer's vows of less is more, and quality over quantity, US carriers seem to have left the Galaxy S III alone for once. In name and design.

I still can't believe my eyes. Looking over the dedicated web pages for the Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T Samsung Galaxy S III has me rereading everything twice to make sure I'm not missing something. How can all the US variants of the Galaxy S III look the same, and share the same name? It's almost as if someone talked some sense into the big carriers around here.

There's no Fascinate III. No Vibrant II HD. No Epic HD Touch Plus IV. Just Galaxy S III. And look at the device. The same button configuration. The same colors. Same screen size. I know this may not seem like much at first glance, but for consumer usability and recognition, this is a huge leap forward.

When a rendered T-Mobile version of the Galaxy S III first leaked, we thought this may end up happening. Actually seeing it come true with not only the T-Mobile S III, but Verizon, Sprint, and AT&T's as well is still shocking.

Just like with the iPhone, anyone who wants a Galaxy S III, no matter what carrier they're using, can get a Galaxy S III. And it will have the same name as other Galaxy S IIIs, and it will look the same as other Galaxy S IIIs, and will be able to use the same accessories as other Galaxy S IIIs. If the chipsets are slightly different, it's no big deal. So long as no one can tell the difference between a Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T and Sprint Galaxy S III, it's a win for consumers.

If memory serves me right, this is the first time this has ever happened in the US. With any line of Android devices. Let's not make it the last.