Bucket Tech: Samsung Galaxy A56 5G & A36 5G: Awesome Intelligence

Samsung’s latest Galaxy A series marks a bold step into the AI-powered mobile future. With the introduction of the Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G, Samsung is bringing what it calls “Awesome Intelligence” directly to users’ fingertips. These new models offer futuristic features designed for everyday use – making advanced AI experiences more accessible than ever before.

What Samsung has done with these devices is make AI accessible — not as a gimmick, but as a true daily companion. Whether it’s discovering something cool online, cleaning up your pics, or getting the perfect snap on the first try, Awesome Intelligence is all about helping you do more, better, and faster.

These devices aren’t just about better specs — they’re about smarter experiences. Here’s a look at three AI-powered features changing the way you interact with your phone daily.

Circle to Search: When Curiosity Strikes, You’re Covered

We’ve all been there. You’re scrolling Instagram or TikTok, and someone’s wearing an outfit you love or using a gadget you need in your life. But there’s no tag, no caption, no clue.

Circle to Search is one of the most powerful and practical AI tools on the Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G. Just press and hold the home button, circle what you’re curious about – a shoe, a landmark, a makeup product — and boom, instant Google-powered search results, right on your screen. Or say you spot a streetwear hoodie you like as you’re scrolling through your newsfeed. Instead of playing detective, you ‘Circle to Search’ it and get links related to the item online — all without leaving the app. Less switching, more discovering.

This is not just next-gen browsing. This is instant, intuitive discovery built into your daily scrolling.

Object Eraser: Fix Your Photos in a Tap

Let’s be honest — the perfect shot is often ruined by someone walking into frame at the wrong time or a random object in the background. In the past, that meant either retaking the photo (if possible), using a third-party app, or just learning to live with it.

With Object Eraser, those days are gone. Tap on the unwanted element in your photo — maybe it’s a photo bomber, a random shadow, or a messy pile of stuff in the background. The AI does the rest, removing the distraction and blending the image naturally.

You’re snapping a photo at the beach. It’s an epic time out, your outfit’s fire, but there’s a stranger walking their dog in the background. One tap with Object Eraser and it’s like they were never there.

Object Eraser makes every shot Insta-worthy — no filters, no stress.

Enhanced Camera AI: Bring Out Your Creativity

The Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G come equipped with a 50MP main lens, a 10-bit HDR selfie camera, and in the case of the A56 5G, an ultra-wide 12MP lens and enhanced Nightography — but it’s the AI doing the behind-the-scenes magic that levels up every shot.

AI isn’t just helping take photos — it’s helping you take better ones by automatically adjusting lighting and contrast to suit your scene, recognising different subjects (like people, pets, or food) and optimising settings on the fly, and smoothing low-light noise for cleaner night shots.

When you’re out for a night with friends, and the lighting in the club is, well, not ideal, there’s no need to panic because there’s a solve. But with AI-enhanced Nightography and selfie optimisation, your photos come out looking sharp, balanced, and ready to post. No edits needed.

And for the group shots, the Galaxy A56 5G offers Best Face — a clever AI tool that lets you select the best expressions from a burst of photos and merge them. No more “let’s take one more” because someone blinked or looked away.

One of the best parts is that you’re getting all this in stylish, powerful devices with immersive Super AMOLED displays, long-lasting 5000mAh batteries, and fast, reliable 5G connectivity — all wrapped in a design that’s built to last with IP67 water and dust resistance

Bucket Tech: Samsung AI Secured Privacy

The potential of AI is limitless, but to truly unlock the full potential of what it can do, user inputs that power personalized experiences are critical. AI needs to understand you — your preferences and your routines — to deliver a mobile experience that feels like a natural extension of your everyday life.

Intuitive, context-aware Galaxy AI features bring these personalized experiences to life, transforming your smartphone from a tool to a smart companion that anticipates your needs and offers suggestions designed to make your life more productive, creative and connected. 

To deliver a fully personalized experience, your device naturally needs access to certain data. This is what allows AI to understand you and tailor its responses in ways that are genuinely helpful and suited to your lifestyle. To ensure your personal data is safeguarded in this era of AI, we’re constantly innovating data protection on your device, so that nothing falls into the wrong hands.

Personalization Made Possible with the Personal Data Engine

Samsung Electronics’ Personal Data Engine (PDE) is a key component of safely delivering these highly personal experiences. First introduced with the Galaxy S25 series, the PDE is the powerhouse behind some of Galaxy’s most life-changing AI experiences yet. It works silently behind the scenes to learn from your habits and preferences, resulting in a truly personalized, unique experience.

Whether it’s Now Brief guiding you through your day with curated updates or simply finding that one perfect photo in your Gallery with natural language input, Galaxy AI makes every AI-powered action feel seamless. And because the PDE safely processes your data on-device, you can enjoy all the benefits of deeply customized AI — without compromising privacy.

Powerful Advancements with Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection

To further strengthen the security of Galaxy AI experiences, Samsung developed Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection (KEEP) — a powerful new layer of on-device security that protects your most sensitive data without interrupting your experience. First developed for the PDE, KEEP now also safeguards other Galaxy AI features like Smart Suggestions, Now Brief, Samsung Moments and more, running quietly in the background to ensure that each supported app is kept secure.

Think of your phone like a house. Each app has its own room — separate, but all under the same roof. Then there’s Secure Folder, which works like a fully detached guesthouse with its own key, set apart from the main home. It’s great for keeping certain things extra private, especially when you want complete isolation from the rest of your device. But as AI features like the PDE start handling more sensitive tasks in real time, there’s a growing need for security that’s just as strong, yet more connected to your everyday experience.

That’s where KEEP comes in. Imagine turning part of the house into a private suite — still under the same roof, but with its own secure entrance that only you can use. It’s more private than a regular room, but not completely separate like the guesthouse. KEEP works the same way: it creates a secure, dedicated space for individual apps — like the PDE — so it can safely handle your data without sending it anywhere or getting in the way of how you use your phone.

As our mobile experiences become more intelligent, KEEP ensures your most personal data stays safe by design. Together with tools like Secure Folder, it reinforces Samsung’s multi-layered approach to data protection — giving both users and services the right type of security for different privacy needs.

With Galaxy AI becoming more personal, features like the Personal Data Engine and Knox Enhanced Encrypted Protection are setting a new standard for mobile intelligence — where personalization and privacy go hand in hand. As these experiences grow smarter and more attuned to your needs, you can rest assured that your most sensitive information will stay safe on your device, exactly where it belongs.

Bucket Tech: Great Health Can Happen Overnight With Galaxy Watch

When it comes to your health, small changes can make a big difference. Every incremental improvement to your daily habits adds up to a healthier whole, and the upcoming Galaxy Watch will help build these habits even more effectively with a slate of new features to improve sleep, heart health, fitness and nutrition.

What’s New:

·        New features include Bedtime Guidance - to optimise your sleep; Vascular Load - which measures stress on your vascular system while sleeping; Running Coach - to help strategise your training and Antioxidant Index, to measure your carotenoids for healthy aging.

·        The new features are part of the One UI 8 Watch, which will be available on the newest Galaxy Watch series. Starting from this month, the features can be experienced through a beta program[6] to a limited number of Galaxy Watch users.

 Why it Matters: 

The goal of these new features is to help you build healthier daily habits, which can be challenging because they don’t develop instantly. It takes time to accumulate these behaviour patterns, and meaningful changes are often only apparent after a long period. But the rewards are worth it.

·        For example, eating unhealthy food may not immediately impact your health, but over time, it can have significant consequences.

·        Conversely, adopting healthy habits may not show immediate results, but over time, they lead to positive changes in your body and mind.

·        Samsung Health’s new features aim to help you develop healthy habits by motivating you through instant feedback on your health. These features inspire you to maintain your habits by providing rewards or warning signs and demonstrating immediate impact of your behaviours. 

Galaxy Watch Ultra

“Sleep remains a cornerstone of our approach to health, as it influences physical and mental well-being, social relationships and even work performance,” said Dr. Hon Pak, Senior Vice President and Head of Digital Health Team, Mobile eXperience, Samsung Electronics. “Now, we envision our Galaxy Watch delivering holistic insights centred around sleep — insights that lead to meaningful changes in daily life. We believe this aligns with our vision of empowering you to lead healthier lives through proactive care and holistic health management.”

Explore New Health Features

Samsung Health’s new features aim to help users develop healthy habits, using instant health feedback as a motivating tool.

Bedtime Guidance 

A single night of restful sleep offers immediate health benefits, encouraging more proactive behaviour changes and leading to a healthier tomorrow. This starts with a regular and optimal bedtime.

·        We constantly seek to advance our sleep-related tools, which include sleep pattern analysis, sleep coaching, and optimising sleep environments. They also include the feature that detects signs of sleep apnea — a sleep disorder — and help you take proactive steps.

·        Now, we are providing additional tools for better sleep by suggesting an optimal bedtime based on your lifestyle and sleep patterns while sending reminders to help you stick to it. 

·        By analysing your past three days’ sleep patterns, the feature evaluates your need for sleep pressure and your circadian rhythm to calculate a bedtime that maximises alertness the next day.

·        This feature is particularly helpful for those trying to optimise their sleep after periods of irregular bedtimes. For example, if you go to bed later than planned over several days or have inconsistent sleep schedules between weekdays and weekends - the bedtime guidance will consider these factors to ensure you get enough sleep.

 Vascular Load                                          

Sleep is a window into overall health, as it impacts holistic well-being. Galaxy Watch uses this opportunity to measure vascular load — the amount of stress on your vascular system while sleeping. 

·        The vascular system carries blood throughout the body to deliver oxygen and nutrients and remove waste - making it a strong indicator to determine good heart health. 

·        During sleep, stress on your vascular system should naturally dip - however, excessive fluctuations can negatively impact cardiovascular health.

·        Simply wear your Watch while sleeping and it will measure your vascular load - providing insights into the stress on your vascular system.

·        Additionally, since all health factors are interconnected - the feature also provides insights into lifestyle factors such as sleep, exercise and stress to help you maintain a healthier lifestyle and develop positive habits.

Running Coach 

While sleep is a precious time to cultivate and care for your health, managing your health during active moments is equally important. Running is one of the most basic and universally available fitness activities, and Samsung has long sought to support runners, offering features to help everyone stay active and achieve their fitness goals. 

·        Many runners face injuries due to over-pacing or are not optimally pushing themselves. Running Coach is designed to help runners safely complete marathons through optimised-intensity and injury-preventive training, making it ideal for beginners.

·        Our new Running Coach feature delivers motivation and real-time guidance - creating a unique training program based on your fitness level to help you achieve your goals.

·        Just wear your watch and run for 12 minutes; it will analyse your performance and running level from 1-10. You’ll receive a detailed training plan to help you complete a 5K, 10K, half marathon or full marathon based on your level. Complete your training session and you’ll level up and unlock your next running challenge.

Antioxidant Index 

When taking a holistic approach to health, we naturally focus on aging and inspiring healthy aging. However, behavioural factors, such as drinking alcohol, smoking, UV exposure, stress and lack of sleep, can accelerate aging by increasing free radicals in the body.

These free radicals damage cells and accelerate aging. Antioxidants, nutrients found in many healthy foods, are molecules that neutralise these free radicals, helping prevent chronic illnesses and promote healthy aging. 

·        Use Galaxy Watch to measure carotenoids, which are antioxidants found in green and orange vegetables and fruits, stored in your skin. 

·        Galaxy Watch employs an industry-first feature to measure carotenoids in just five seconds via its advanced, light-activated BioActive sensor.

·        These insights reflect behavioural changes. For example, drinking carrot juice can show changes in the index, providing motivation to adopt healthier habits.

Great health comes from the combination of many small changes — and with Galaxy Watch, it is now possible overnight

Bucket Tech: Samsung Galaxy Anti-Theft Features

With an average of 189 cellphones reportedly getting stolen everyday in Mzansi, Samsung is urging South African Galaxy users to activate the latest anti-theft and anti-robbery features now available on Galaxy devices. These updates form part of Samsung’s ongoing commitment to smarter, tougher mobile security, giving users more control over their data, even in high-risk situations like smash-and-grabs or pickpocketing in busy taxi ranks, bus stops/stations, and other public areas.

The latest security enhancements come via Samsung’s One UI 7 update, which was introduced with the Galaxy S25 series earlier this year and is now being rolled out to a broader range of devices across the Galaxy ecosystem.

South Africa continues to grapple with high mobile phone theft rates, especially in urban areas like Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town. Whether it’s phones being snatched from hands at traffic lights, lifted at taxi ranks, or stolen in the dark or load-shedding-induced house robberies, Galaxy users now have new ways to protect their personal data.

Samsung’s new Theft Protection suite builds on existing Android security and introduces advanced layers of protection, even in cases where criminals might have access to your PIN or try to disable your device.

Galaxy users can now enable a range of new security measures, including Identity Check, designed to offer stronger protection in complex theft scenarios. These features respond automatically and intelligently to suspicious activity, helping ensure that personal data remains secure and under the user’s control in these critical moments.

Existing and updated features in Theft Protection include:

• Theft Detection Lock: This uses machine learning to detect motions associated with theft such as snatching, and instantly locks the screen to stop unauthorized access.

• Offline Device Lock: The screen gets automatically locked if the device is disconnected from the network for an extended period, ensuring protection even when the device is offline.

• Remote Lock: If the device has already been stolen, users can lock it remotely using their phone number and a quick verification step. Remote Lock also allows users to regain control of their account and explore additional recovery options.

New Anti-Robbery features released on One UI 7 include:

• Identity Check: In unfamiliar locations, the ‘Safe Places’ feature requires biometric authentication for any changes to sensitive security settings, adding an additional layer of protection when a PIN may have been compromised.

• Security Delay: A key component of Identity Check, it triggers a one-hour waiting period if someone attempts to reset biometric data. This crucial buffer gives users time to lock the stolen phone from a connected device, such as a PC or tablet, before unauthorized access can occur.

These updated theft features are now becoming available on previous flagship devices, starting with the Galaxy S24 series, Z Fold6, Z Flip6, Z Fold5, Z Flip 5, S23 and S22 series,  with future updates planned for even more Galaxy smartphones.

Further steps to take if your Samsung Galaxy device is lost or stolen

How to remotely lock your Samsung Galaxy device:

• Sign into Samsung Find using your Samsung account
• Select your phone on the left-hand side of the page, then choose Lost Mode in the device details section
• Create a PIN to unlock your phone if recovered, and enter it twice to confirm
• You will have the option to add an emergency contact and a custom message that will display on the locked screen (It’s recommended to skip this step to avoid sharing personal contact details)
• When you are ready, select the Lock button and verify your Samsung account to activate Lost mode
• If your device is recovered, you can unlock it using the PIN that was created when setting lost mode on your device

How to remotely delete data on your Samsung Galaxy device: 

• Visit the Samsung Find website
• Select the phone you want to erase and choose Erase Data
• Verify your Samsung account credentials
• Review the information provided and tap Erase to confirm
• All the data on your mobile, including Samsung Pay information, will be permanently deleted and cannot be recovered
• This will also reset your phone, meaning you won’t be able to locate and control it via Samsung Find
• Make sure to regularly back up your data to the cloud so you can restore it to a new device if needed

How to remotely change your Samsung and/or Google account passwords: 

• It is recommended to change the passwords for your Samsung and Google accounts (or whichever accounts are linked to your device) by signing in through their respective websites
• Once changed, you will be signed out of all connected devices, except the one you’re using
• This prevents unauthorized access to account-linked features and protects your personal information

How to track your Galaxy device:

• If your device is turned on and connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data, its last known location will appear on a map 
• Visit the Samsung Find website
• Sign in with the Samsung account associated with your device (or a guardian’s account)
• If multiple devices are linked to your account, they will all appear – select the one you want to locate
• You’ll see its current or last known location

Other remote features available: 

• Ring: Make your device ring even if it’s set to silent or vibrate
• Extend battery life: Activate power-saving settings to keep your device on longer and improve the chances of recovery
• Track location: Enable real-time location tracking and your phone’s location will update every 15 minutes until tracking is stopped
• Other ways to locate Galaxy devices
• Find your phone using your Galaxy watch (WearOS 5 or higher):
• Swipe down from the top of your Galaxy Watch to open Quick settings
• Tap the Find My Phone icon
• Tap Start to begin the search – your phone’s ringtone will sound
• Once found, tap Stop on your watch or the X icon on your phone

Find your Galaxy Watch: 

• Open the Galaxy Wearable app on your phone
• Tap Find My Watch (or Find My Band / Find My Gear, depending on your device)
• If connected via Bluetooth, tap Start
• Your watch will vibrate and play a sound (depending on model)
• Once found, tap the X icon on your watch or Stop on your phone
• Find your Galaxy Buds: 
• Open the Galaxy Wearable app on your phone or tablet
• Tap Find My Earbuds
• Tap Start – your earbuds will begin beeping and gradually increase in volume for three minutes
• Once found, tap Stop
• Using Google’s Find My Device:
• Google’s Find My Device is built into Android via Google Play Services
• You will need a Google account to use it
• With this tool, you can set a new password, make your device ring, display a message, lock and wipe your device, and more

Contact the authorities and your mobile network provider: 

• Once taken the steps above, report your lost or stolen device to the police and record a crime incident report
• Contact your mobile network provider to freeze your contract and prevent unauthorized usage

For additional device protection, it is recommended to have insurance that covers accidental damage, loss, or theft. Samsung offers a variety of protection plans – visit Samsung.com to explore coverage options that best suit your needs.

Bucket Tech: Samsung Camera Innovation

Today’s mobile imaging goes beyond just a high-quality lens or advanced sensor — it demands seamless integration of hardware, software and AI. That’s why Samsung Electronics approaches camera innovation as a holistic system, where each advancement is supported by tightly integrated technologies. This unified vision allows Galaxy devices to continuously redefine mobile photography, empowering users to capture, create and communicate more meaningfully.

As AI evolves from text-based prompts to multimodal understanding, Galaxy devices are becoming smarter — able to get what you’re looking at and respond to situations. The camera is at the heart of this transformation. More than just a tool for capturing images, coupled with enhanced AI-powered features, the Galaxy camera is now part of the intuitive interface that turns what users see into understanding and action.

When paired with the flexible, expansive screen of a foldable, this experience becomes even more powerful, dynamic and immersive. Because innovation means nothing without trust, privacy is built into every layer helping to ensure that data is protected at all times.

Stay tuned. The camera will only get smarter — helping users capture life’s moments more vividly and make everyday experiences more seamless, personal and impactful.

The Ultra experience is ready to unfold.

Bucket Tech: Galaxy Tab S10 FE

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd has announced the Galaxy Tab S10 FE and Galaxy Tab S10 FE+, offering new entry points to the Galaxy ecosystem on a premium tablet design. Equipped with the largest screen yet on the Galaxy Tab FE series and slimmer bezels that expand its display, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ provides a fun, immersive viewing experience for everything from entertainment to studying and day-to-day tasks. Samsung’s Intelligent Features empower users to get more done with ease, while a slimmer design helps users to achieve their creativity and productivity on the go.

“The new Galaxy Tab S10 FE series brings advanced mobile AI experience and Samsung’s connected ecosystem to even more tablet users, while still offering cutting-edge performance and design,” said Changtae Kim, EVP & Head of New Computing R&D Team, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “We’re confident that the slim bezels and expansive displays, in addition to a whole host of functional improvements, will inspire people to do more, create more and discover more.”

Stunning Clarity on a Bigger, Vibrant Display

Combining the Galaxy Tab S series’ heritage design with slim bezels, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ 13.1-inch display[i] offers immersive entertainment on a screen that’s almost 12% larger than the previous FE+. Smooth visuals enabled by a 90Hz refresh rate and new levels of visibility up to 800 nits HBM on the Galaxy Tab S10 FE series ensure an optimal viewing experience when watching videos and gaming. Vision Booster’s automatic adjustments enhance brightness and visibility even in ever-changing outdoor environments while blue-light emissions are safely reduced to minimise eye strain, meeting every unique viewing need.

Robust Performance in a Portable Design

The Galaxy Tab S10 FE series boosts productivity when working or studying and delivers fast, smooth gameplay without interruption. Performance upgrades enable the Galaxy Tab S10 FE series to help users switch effortlessly between multiple apps when they are being creative, allowing for improved multi-tasking. And when capturing everyday moments in the classroom or in workspaces, a newly upgraded 13MP high resolution rear camera produces clear and vivid photos.

These versatile experiences, from powerful work to seamless play, accompany users everywhere they go. Now more than 4% lighter than its predecessor, Galaxy Tab S10 FE is even easier to carry around, while the Galaxy S10 Tab FE series offers hassle-free storage and mobility at home, on campus, in the workplace and elsewhere with its slim design. Engineered for resilience and durability to withstand the elements, the FE series also comes with the same IP68 rating as the newest Galaxy Tab S10 series.

Advanced Features Unleash Potential

Building on Samsung’s legacy of delivering premium experiences across the Galaxy ecosystem, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ and Galaxy Tab S10 FE are the first models in the FE series to come equipped with innovative AI capabilities right out of the box, fuelling user productivity.

Fan-favourite Circle to Search[ii] with Google allows you to search what you see on your tablet without switching apps. Quickly get the info you need, translate text on screen or get homework help with step-by-step explanations, all on one large screen.

Samsung Notes features like Solve Math for quick calculations of handwriting and text; and Handwriting Help to tidy up notes easily - make notetaking easier than ever so users can stay focused in the moment.

AI assistants are instantly launched with a single tap of the Galaxy AI Key on the Book Cover Keyboard. Plus, AI assistants can be customised based on users’ preferences for a more personalised experience.

An upgraded Object Eraser lets users effortlessly remove unwanted objects from photos, with automatic suggestions for quick and easy edits.

Newly introduced Best Face ensures perfect group photos by selecting and combining the best expressions and features.

Auto Trim brings cherished moments to life by sifting through multiple videos to seamlessly compile highlight reels. 

The Galaxy Tab S10 FE series also serves as the perfect canvas for creativity with pre-loaded apps and tools including LumaFusion, Goodnotes, Clip Studio Paint and more - alongside other spotlight apps like Noteshelf 3, Sketchbook and Picsart.

For an even more intuitive AI experience, the FE series seamlessly integrates with other Samsung Galaxy devices. Similar to the Galaxy Tab S10 series, users can access a comprehensive overview of their home status with the Home Insight widget dashboard and 3D Map View feature. Summarised status updates of SmartThings-enabled devices, give users peace of mind when out and about.

Security Your Way

As with any Galaxy device, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE series is fortified by strong security, Samsung Knox, Samsung Galaxy’s defense-grade, a multi-layer security platform built to safeguard critical information and protect against vulnerabilities with end-to-end hardware, real-time threat detection and collaborative protection.

Availability

From 5 May to 30 June 2025, Samsung is offering exclusive bundle deals on the Galaxy Tab S10 Series. When you purchase any Galaxy Tab S10, you can also receive the Galaxy Buds3 or the Smart Book Cover at the following special bundle rates:

Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ 5G: R15,999

Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ WiFi: R14,999

Galaxy Tab S10 FE 5G: R12,999

Galaxy Tab S10 FE WiFi: R11,999

To claim your Galaxy Buds3 or Smart Book Cover, simply follow the redemption process via Samsung Members.

These amazing devices from the Galaxy Tab S10 FE series come in three colours: Gray, Silver, and Blue.

For more information about the Galaxy Tab S10 FE series, please visit: https://www.samsung.com/sec/tablets/

Bucket Tech: Samsung Blue Tag Sale

Samsung’s Blue Tag Sale, currently on until 2 March 2025, is offering exclusive deals on advanced home appliances, electronics and devices that promote healthier living. With a focus on Home for Wellness, Samsung is committed to bringing cutting-edge technology that takes care of you and your well-being, balance, and sustainable living. From smart TVs and monitors to air-conditioners, fridges, and washing machines, Samsung is empowering individuals to make healthier choices, all from the comfort of their homes.

Samsung Smart TVs and Monitors: Wellness at Home

Samsung’s innovative Smart TVs and monitors are not only designed for entertainment but also as essential wellness tools for modern living. With an array of wellness apps, fitness programs, and guided meditation features, these displays encourage a holistic approach to health at home. Users can stream exercise routines, relaxation videos, and track their fitness progress—all through their Samsung TVs and monitors. Whether you’re looking to stay active, relax, or practice mindfulness, a Samsung TV or monitor can help you turn your home into a wellness hub.

Air-Conditioners: Breathing Easier with Clean Air

Samsung’s air-conditioners go beyond providing comfort with temperature regulation. They not only keep your room temperature comfortably in check, they also include a specialised filter to keep the air in your home clean and hygienic. The Samsung WindFree Air Conditioners have a Tri-Care filter feature that is made up of three layers that reduce harmful particles to help maintain healthy indoor air quality, and has been certified by Intertek to reduce 99.9% of bacteria.

With smart sensors that monitor air conditions in real-time, Samsung air-conditioners adjust to your home's needs, ensuring optimal temperature and air quality for a healthier, more comfortable living environment. Ideal for those looking to create a cleaner, fresher atmosphere at home, Samsung air-conditioners contribute to better breathing and overall well-being.

The WindFree also has a PM1.0 Filter that protects you from inhaling bacteria and tiny particles. It sterilises over 99% of bacteria that gets stuck on the filter surface.

As part of the Blue Tag Sale, Samsung is offering amazing discounts on select wellness-enhancing appliances, making it easier for you to invest in healthier living:

• 75 Inch QLED 4K Q60D Tizen OS Smart TV (2024) - QA75Q60DAKXXA. Now R17,999* (save R1,999). You can pair it with the Essential C-Series Soundbar (HW-C450) for R3,299*.
• 65 Inch Neo QLED 4K QN85D Tizen OS Smart TV (2024) - QA65QN85DBKXXA. Now R25,999* (save R2,000).
• 65" DU7000 Crystal UHD 4K HDR Smart TV (UA65DU7000KXXA). Now R10,999* (save R1,000). Plus the Essential C-Series Soundbar HW-C400 (HW-C400/XA) at R1,299 (save R500).
• 34" Odyssey G55T UWQHD 165Hz Gaming Monitor (LC34G55TWWPXEN). Now R9,999* (save R3,000).
• 32" Smart Monitor M70D UHD, USB-C with Speakers & Remote (LS32DM702UAXXA). Now R7,999* (save R2,000).
• AR9500T Wall-mount AC with Windfree TM and AI technology, 12000 BTU/h (AR12BSAAAWK/FA). Now R16,599* (save R3,000).

Bucket Tech: Samsung Care+

With the much anticipated Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 now in stores, it's reasonable for shoppers to expect an enhanced level of care tailored to the unique needs of foldable devices.

The Standard Samsung Care+ plan offers essential protection for your Samsung Galaxy device, including one claim within a year, coverage for both the inner and outer screen in case of damage, eligibility for battery replacement upon claim (subject to inspection), and repairs conducted by Samsung-authorized technicians using genuine Samsung parts.

Save R1000: Pay only R999 for 1 year screen protection

To provide customers with unparalleled peace of mind, Samsung is offering a significant discount on its Samsung Care+ plan for a limited time. From July 10-to-31 October 2024, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 owners can purchase a 12-month Standard Samsung Care+ plan for just R999, representing a substantial R1000 saving on the regular R1999 price. This offer is only valid for 30 days from the date of purchase. To activate, visit https://www.samsung.com/za/offer/samsung-care-plus/.

Customers can also opt for the Premium Samsung Care+ plan, offering expanded coverage beyond the Standard plan. This includes additional protection for the screen, motherboard, liquid damage, and battery replacement (subject to repair inspection). Customers have the flexibility to choose between a two or three-year plan and can select from either a one-time or monthly payment option, starting from R169 per month.

Buy the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 and Z Flip6 now and get an accessories voucher of up to R2000 (Terms and Conditions apply). Additionally, you could receive up to R15 000 when you trade in your qualifying device towards the purchase of your new Galaxy Z Fold6 or Z Flip6.

Bucket Tech: Google Gemini

 

AI has been slowly creeping its way into almost everything over the past 2 years, it came in relatively unannounced with tech companies using AI to assist with some of the most minute applications but slowly it began to grow even more, AI became more than something on your smart phone to help you take better pictures, soon with applications like Chat GPT, you were able to get AI to write you letters, essays, heck, it can even write this post you're reading but rest assured, this one is coming straight from that grey matter in my head. Yes, AI is here to assist you, at the end of the day, AI can only do so much because its an ever evolving technology that feeds from information you give it. Apple recently at their event went through the various features their OS has with AI, by the way, they call it Apple Intelligence and not the global norm which is Artificial Intelligence. But Apple being Apple can do shit like that and the world will still be amazed. This however riled up the Android boys hence last night, Google decided to drop Gemini, their AI assistant that is available to use on all Android devices. Gemini is deeply integrated into Android and runs at its core, with the rest of the operating system being built around it, this they say will "redefine what phones can do". 

Yes, we've always had the interactive functions of "voice command" from Google before, but with Gemini it's become more streamlined and has a lot more functionality than before. With "Okay Google" command prompt it limited you to app based questions, while with Gemini, the command prompt is changed to a simple "Hello" and then you can ask it pretty much anything you want? What is great as per the above video, it can run through multiple apps to give you an answer with solutions and show you how to do it. For example, an email was sent to you to meet a person at a certain location at a certain time, the user asked Gemini for the info, it searched through Gmail for the specific email, found the time and location, opened Google Maps and told her how long it will take for her to get their with traffic information. This new personal assistant feature comes really handy for people on the go, to schedule appoints and reminders. 

As always, the big question comes about security, with so much information being fed into the Gemini, how sure are you that what you're telling it wont reach into the hands of those of others. Google says with its end-to-end approach to AI privacy on Android, all your personal information is secured. Google is using cutting-edge privacy technologies like Private Compute Core and federated learning to ensure the assistant experience with Gemini on Android is aligned with their existing Secure AI framework, AI Principles and Privacy Principles. They maintain they do no hand off to a third-party AI provider and everything on their ecosystem is in house. 

With Android global footprint on various devices, Gemini is the most widely available AI assistant, with this in mind, it supported in 45 languages in more than 200 countries and territories and its an ever growing platform with these figures only going to grow. Whether you're using Gemini on Pixel devices or Samsung devices, each brand has customized Gemini in various ways  to make it more comfortable for their user to experience.  Some stand out features will feature throughout the Android ecosystem like Samsung's "Circle to Search" is available on Gemini now and this is only the beginning. 

Bucket Tech: Samsung A55 5G Review

The Samsung Galaxy A55 5G is a commendable addition to the mid-range smartphone market, offering a blend of performance, design, and connectivity that caters to a diverse range of users. I spent a few weeks with this latest offering in the Galaxy A series category and here's a detailed look at its features and how it stands out in the South African market against it's competitors.

Unboxing

Design and Build

The Galaxy A55 5G sports a sleek, modern design with a premium feel. Its polycarbonate back with a matte finish provides a comfortable grip and reduces fingerprint smudges, making it practical for daily use. The device is available in various colors, appealing to both conservative and vibrant style preferences.

Display

Equipped with a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display, the A55 5G delivers vivid colors and deep blacks, perfect for multimedia consumption. The Full HD+ resolution ensures crisp visuals, enhancing the experience of streaming services, which are increasingly popular in South Africa. The Infinity-O design, with a small punch-hole for the front facing camera, maximizes the screen real estate, making it ideal for browsing, social media, and gaming.

Performance

Powered by an Exynos chipset with an improved Octa-core CPU, the Galaxy A55 5G handles multitasking with ease. Whether you’re switching between apps, playing graphically intensive games, or working on productivity tasks, the performance remains smooth and responsive. The 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD up to 1TB, offers ample space for apps, photos, and videos. Gaming on the A55 is simply brilliant, playing games such as COD which are heavily RAM and WiFi dependent, I had zero issues with loading and game play, in-fact, it was such an immersive experience, I got locked in the day I installed it and played for almost 2 hours straight!

5G Connectivity

One of the standout features of the A55 is its 5G capability. As 5G networks expand across South Africa, the A55 is future-proofed to take advantage of faster data speeds and improved network reliability. This makes it an excellent choice for users who rely heavily on mobile data for streaming, online gaming, or remote work.

Camera System

The triple camera setup on the Galaxy A55 5G includes a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 5MP macro lens with depth sensor. This versatile array allows users to capture a wide range of shots, from detailed close-ups to expansive landscapes. The camera performance is solid in good lighting, with decent low-light capabilities, thanks to the Night Mode feature. The 32MP front camera produces sharp and vibrant selfies, catering to social media enthusiasts. No with AI functionality, the camera can take pictures with the best settings all by detecting the environment and lighting around. The AI engine also enhances the editing experiences with a simple touch of a button that will transform the images taken by you. 

Battery Life

The 5000mAh battery ensures that the Galaxy A55 5G can easily last a full day of moderate to heavy use. With 25W fast charging support, recharging the device is quick and convenient, minimizing downtime. For South Africans who are often on the go, the reliable battery life is a significant advantage and with you not needed to hunt for a socket outlet to charge at any given time helps a lot. I used the device to multitask, meaning using it as a WiFi hotspot for my laptop (I don't trust free WiFi), taking pictures, making calls and checking on social media, the device lasted me my full day which starts at 5:30am at the gym till I go to bed at 10pm at night. I was very impressed. 

Price and Value

Coming in at R9,999 the Samsung Galaxy A55 5G is really a device that is extremely well priced. In the South African market, where price sensitivity is crucial, the Galaxy A55 5G offers great value for its features. It competes well with other mid-range devices, delivering a premium feel without the flagship price tag. Samsung’s strong brand presence and reliable after-sales service in South Africa further enhance its appeal.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy A55 5G stands out as a versatile and capable smartphone, well-suited to the diverse needs of South African users. Its combination of performance, design, and future-ready connectivity makes it an attractive choice for anyone looking for a reliable mid-range device. Whether you’re a student, professional, or tech enthusiast, the A55 5G is equipped to handle a variety of tasks with ease.

Some Examples of pictures taken with the A55

 

Bucket Tech: Samsung Galaxy A for Awesome!

Awesome is for Everyone with Samsung’s latest Galaxy A 55 5G and Galaxy A35 5G featuring the brand’s next generation of awesome, multi-faceted, talented Amapiano artist and dance sensation, Kamo Mphela. At an exclusive media event held in Johannesburg, the unveiling of the new campaign marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing evolution of the Galaxy A Series portfolio as South Africa's rap titan, Cassper Nyovest passed on the baton to Mphela. Additionally, the campaign introduces Youngsta CPT, Cape Town's hip-hop artist, lyricist and songwriter to add his own flair to the mix. A true testament to the power of innovation and entertainment coming together in perfect harmony.

“This campaign encapsulates a moment we’ve already passed while also looking into the future. Cassper Nyovest has been a great partner not only to Samsung, but to the Galaxy A Series as he hands the baton to the next generation of awesome,” says Kgomotso Mosiane, Marketing Lead for Mobile eXperience at Samsung Electronics South Africa.

She went on to add: “This new generation of awesome is about switching gears, changing things up with the campaign boldly merging the spirit of Amapiano with the lead campaign brand ambassador, Kamo Mphela and Hip Hop with Youngsta CPT to bring the exciting message of the awesome for everyone”.

Building on the success and cultural impact of past campaigns with Cassper Nyovest, Awesome Is for Everyone campaign is all about celebrating the spirit of awesome innovation and invites everyone to engage on their own awesome terms: with irony and irreverent fun.

Continues Mosiane: “As a brand, we believe Kamo Mphela brings with her a unique blend of talent, energy, authenticity, and influence, perfectly aligning with the aspirations and preferences of today's youth. By leveraging her platform, voice and reach, we aim to deepen connections with Gen Z creators, tapping into their passions and desires to co-create experiences that resonate on a personal level.”

Samsung constantly strives to be at the leading edge of technology and anticipation for new product launches. The 360-campaign will come to life across every consumer touch point, including multiple creative TV, digital and OOH spots that unveil the timeless world, where Awesome Never Stops with the latest Samsung Galaxy A55 5G and A35 5G as the newest superheroes of the much-loved series.

This latest commercial, directed by South-African award winning Director Keitumetse Qhali (aka Director Kit in the industry), doesn’t just showcase the Galaxy A Series' awesome features, but demonstrate how Samsung creates an emotional connection with South Africans. The TVC narrates the journey of individuals who embrace the power of technology to chase their dreams and express their true selves. A true celebration of creativity and innovation, mirrored in every aspect of the Galaxy A Series. By showcasing real-life stories, the brand aims to inspire the audience to believe in the extraordinary potential of their own journeys, all powered by Samsung's commitment to AWESOMENESS.

Central to the campaign, next to feature of all three stars, are the key features of the Galaxy A55 5G and A35 5G that are highlighted in the TVC including an edge-to-edge infinity screen with the triple-camera system, a super-steady mode for smooth video capture and, of course, a long-lasting battery life. Night Portrait mode ensures that capturing memories with friends and family is never dependent on the background of perfect lighting.

“The Galaxy A Series 2024 represents a massive leap in Samsung's pursuit for AWESOMENESS. With its ground-breaking features, it's more than just a series of smartphones; it's a gateway to a world of endless possibilities. From enhanced camera capabilities to seamless connectivity and immersive entertainment, every aspect of the Galaxy A55 5G and A35 5G is meticulously crafted to exceed expectations and elevate the user experience to new height,” says Mosiane.

The Samsung Galaxy A55 5G and A35 5G boast an array of awesome features tailored to meet the needs of today's dynamic users and content creators. Say goodbye to blurry, low-quality photos with the Galaxy A Series' 50MP camera, ensuring every shot is crisp, clear, and Instagram-ready. Experience cinematic scenes with stunning, true to life colours on the Super AMOLED Display and seamless filming, free from concerns about motion or instability with the UHD VDIS Adaptive VDIS 4K Stabilization. Not even a little rain could dampen your experience as the water resistance feature[1]. Embrace the night and unlock your creativity with Nightography mode. From exploring the city streets under the night sky to simply enjoying a night out with your friends, this feature allows you to capture stunning low-light photos with vibrant colours and great clarity.

To top it off, the Galaxy A Series' impressive two-day battery[2] life will ensure you can stay connected and entertained for longer without constantly charging it. Whether you're binge-watching your favourite shows, streaming music, or scrolling through your social media, the Galaxy A Series keeps up with your busy lifestyle.

Bucket Tech: Samsung Galaxy A34 5G & Galaxy A54 5G

In today’s tough economic climate, Samsung’s Galaxy A series offers smartphones built on the foundations of dependable innovation and affordability. These phones bring an exceptional mobile experience that meets the diverse needs of consumers while offering great value for money.

Samsung is committed to opening up access to cutting-edge mobile technology to everyone, and the Galaxy A series is a prime example of that commitment. The A series smartphones provide an awesome range of features without breaking the bank or compromising on quality. At the heart of the Galaxy A series is a dedication to innovation that enhances the user experience in meaningful ways. From stunning displays that offer vivid visuals to powerful cameras that capture life's moments with exceptional clarity, these smartphones push the boundaries of what is possible. Whether it's the integration of AI-powered enhancements or the seamless connectivity with other devices, the Galaxy A series is designed to make everyday tasks more enjoyable and efficient.

The Galaxy A series makes light of communication, work, and entertainment, as it delivers on the promise of dependability and making life easier for its users. These durable, feature-packed devices are engineered to provide consistent performance and reliability as they are designed to withstand some of the roughest conditions. From fast multitasking to smooth multimedia playback, users can trust the A series to hit the mark every time. With the A series, consumers can now fully enjoy the benefits of Samsung's innovation, quality and renowned craftsmanship without breaking the bank.

The latest models of the Galaxy A series, the A54 5G and A34 5G both come with excellent cameras, with enhanced optical image stabilisation (OIS) and video digital image stabilisation (VDIS), allowing users to capture beautiful pictures and clear videos. Thanks to the Galaxy A54 5G’s 50MP main camera and 32MP front camera, and the Galaxy A34 5G’s 48MP main and 13MP front cameras, and their impressive Nightography feature, these devices will give you the power to create and capture those good memories through vivid detail even at night when there’s poor lighting. What’s more, all your files, music, pictures and videos will be kept safely for you in the 256GB (A54 5G) and 128GB (A34 5G) internal storage. Both smartphones are IP rated, making them durable and safe in shallow water and dusty conditions, for your peace of mind.

Bucket Tech: Samsung Galaxy Z Series

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has announced its fifth generation of Galaxy foldables: Galaxy Z Flip5 and Galaxy Z Fold5. The exceptional form factors offer unique experiences for every user with sleek and compact designs, countless customisation options, and powerful performance. The new Flex Hinge makes the foldable experience possible, while offering an aesthetically balanced and solid design. These incredible foldable devices unlock extraordinary camera capabilities such as FlexCam to take photos from creative angles. With strong performance and an optimised battery powered by the latest processor, the Samsung Galaxy Z series transforms what is possible with a smartphone – open or closed.

“Samsung is revolutionising the mobile industry with foldables by setting the standard and continually refining the experience,” said TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “Every day, more people choose our foldables because they offer an experience people want that they can’t get on any other device. Galaxy Z Flip5 and Galaxy Z Fold5 are the latest devices that prove our commitment to meeting the needs of our customers through innovative technology.”

Samsung’s heritage of innovation and dedication to the foldables category has created incredibly versatile devices available. With a strong belief in the potential of the foldable format, paired with superb R&D and manufacturing capabilities, Samsung has consistently refined and optimised the Galaxy Z series lineup. From content creation on Galaxy Z Flip5’s new Flex Window to seamless multitasking on Galaxy Z Fold5, this series of Galaxy foldables meets and exceeds the distinctive needs of today’s users.

Furthermore, both Galaxy Z Flip5 and Galaxy Z Fold5 are carefully designed to meet durability expectations. The main screen is equipped with a shock dispersion layer and a redesigned back for a more solid display. Along with IPX8 support, Armor Aluminum frames, and Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2 applied to both the Flex Window and back cover, Galaxy Z Flip5 and Galaxy Z Fold5 provide the protection consumers expect, enhanced further by Flex Hinge. This new integrated hinge module features a dual rail structure, diffusing external impacts.

Galaxy Z Flip5: The ultimate pocketable self-expression tool without compromise

The Galaxy Z Flip5 delivers a stylish, unique foldable experience from a pocket-sized device built for self-expression.

The new Flex Window, now 3.78 times larger than the previous generation, offers a wide range of existing and new capabilities. It provides more customisation options, including informative and graphical clocks that can match the face design of a user’s Galaxy Watch6 series, as well as stylish frames. In addition, Galaxy Z Flip5’s new Flipsuit Case provides device protection with a changeable NFC card, so users can match their Flex Window design and case design for even more personalisation options.

Closed, the Galaxy Z Flip5 offers more usability than ever before. From the Flex Window, quickly and effortlessly access useful information. With Widgets, users can check the weather, control music playback and listen to their favorite music with Media Controller, or catch up on the latest global stock market updates with the Google Finance widget. Simply view all Widgets at a glance and switch between them instantly with a pinch of the screen to activate Multi Widget View. Plus, easily check notifications and access Quick Settings for Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Without ever opening the device, browse through call history to return missed calls, and reply to texts on-the-go using Quick Reply with a full QWERTY keyboard and visibility of chat history. With a quick swipe up on the screen, access Samsung Wallet to pay on-the-go, access QR codes and coupons, as well as boarding passes, membership cards, digital keys and health passes.

With its unparalleled design and form factor, Galaxy Z Flip5 also offers the most versatile camera experience on a Samsung Galaxy smartphone. Take high-quality selfies with the rear camera thanks to the larger Flex Window. Users can capture stunning hands-free photos from creative angles with FlexCam. It’s quick and simple to view and edit shots in Flex Mode too. Users can review, adjust the colour tone, or delete images easily with the Quick View in the Flex Window.  When taking a photo of a friend, Dual Preview lets them see themselves in the Flex Window so they can make adjustments in real time for the perfect shot. Users can get a smooth shot on the go with camera-stabilising Super Steady, while Auto Framing ensures that no one is left out.

The Galaxy Z Flip5 adds AI solution improvements to the powerful camera experience, bringing every photo to life. Get creative, even in low light, with improved Nightography capabilities that optimise photos and videos in ambient lighting conditions. The AI-powered image signal processing (ISP) algorithm corrects any visual noise that typically spoils low-light images while enhancing details and colour tone. Even from a distance, photos are clearer with the digital 10X zoom.

Galaxy Z Fold5: The ultimate productivity powerhouse with a large screen

Offering an immersive, large screen and a long-lasting battery in the thinnest, lightest Fold yet, Galaxy Z Fold5 is easy to take anywhere, while delivering the most powerful performance in the Galaxy Z series. 

The Galaxy Z Fold has been a pioneer in transforming everyday productivity through a robust, big screen experience, evolving from Multi Window and App Continuity to a wide range of features including Taskbar, drag and drop, and optimisation of third-party apps. S Pen Fold Edition introduced in the third generation Fold in 2021, has also been fine-tuned to deliver a superior writing experience on Galaxy Z Fold5. These features and tools come together to deliver powerful productivity on a large screen and enable users to complete important tasks from anywhere.

The improved Taskbar enables dynamic productivity by allowing users to quickly switch between frequently used apps. Now up to four recent apps are at the ready for more efficient working. Newly enhanced two-handed drag and drop can also ramp up productivity when moving content between apps and screens. Simply touch and hold an image in Samsung Gallery with one finger and use another finger to open the Samsung Notes app to drag-and-drop the image. With hidden pop-up, an app can continue running in the background, allowing users to watch video content in full screen and chat with friends in a floating pop-up on the side of the screen.

The new slimmer and more compact S Pen Fold Edition makes real-time annotating and ideation easy while being able to fit more comfortably in the pocket. The Slim S Pen Case is nearly the same thickness as a regular case for the Fold and available in a variety of styles and colours so users can carry their S Pens in style.

Helping users do more on the go, the 7.6-inch Main Screen provides expansive and uninterrupted viewing so users can enjoy their favorite movie in portrait or landscape. Plus, peak brightness has increased by more than 30%, up to 1750 nits, for an optimal viewing experience outdoors even under bright sunlight.

Providing users with an immersive gaming experience on the largest Galaxy smartphone screen, the Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for Galaxy enhances graphics and uses AI to enable dynamic gaming and multi-game functionality. The Galaxy Z Fold5 can comfortably handle marathon gaming sessions with its advanced cooling system that dissipates heat more intelligently for less lag and no drop in performance.

Delivering a positive impact for the planet

Samsung continue to demonstrate progress toward the company’s environmental vision and accelerate actions that help achieve its goals, including reaching net zero carbon emissions by the end of 2030 for the Device eXperience Division.

The Galaxy Z Flip5 and Fold5 feature a wider variety of recycled materials than their previous generations, including pre-consumer recycled glass and aluminum and post-consumer recycled plastics, sourced from discarded fishing nets, water barrels and PET bottles. Even the paper used for their packaging box is made using 100 percent recycled material.

These innovations have also been purposefully designed for optimised longevity. Each device comes with five years of security updates and four generations of OS upgrades, helping to extend the product lifecycle.

Availability

The Galaxy Z Flip5 and Galaxy Z Fold5 will be available for pre-order in select markets after Unpacked on 26 July 2023, with general availability starting on 18 August 2023.

Galaxy Z Flip5 lets users express themselves with colours including Mint, Graphite, Cream, and Lavender, as well as a range of accessories including a Clear Gadget Case, Flap Eco-Leather Case, Flipsuit Case and easy-to-carry Silicone Case with Ring to create a more personalised look.

Galaxy Z Fold5 is available in Icy Blue, Phantom Black, and Cream, along with a variety of cases that offer practicality and style including a Slim S Pen Case, Clear Gadget Case, Eco-Leather Case, and a Standing Case with Strap.

If you pre-order now, you can double your device’s storage from 256GB to 512GB at no extra cost – Terms & Conditions Apply. Samsung is committed to giving customers peace of mind with Samsung Care+, a support service for accidental damage, repairs, and more  Enjoy your new device and stay worry-free with the Samsung Care+ 1 Year Complementary Screen protection valued at R1999. Inner and/or outer screen covered – should both Fold screens be damaged in the first incident, both screens will be replaced. The cover is for one screen damage, is valid for 12 months and registration must be done within 30 days from date of device purchase. R999 repair fee is payable to customer when claiming.