Bucket Tech: Samsung Galaxy A Series offers 24/7 SOS+

Samsung South Africa is putting safety and peace of mind directly into customers’ hands with the launch of Samsung SOS+* campaign, running from 18 May to 30 June 2026. Customers who purchase the new Samsung Galaxy A57 5G or Galaxy A37 5G during the promotional period will qualify for 12 months of free access to Samsung SOS+, an on-demand emergency response subscription provided by AURA.

Designed for those navigating busy lifestyles, late-night commutes, family responsibilities, travel, and unexpected emergencies, Samsung SOS+* transforms the smartphone into more than just a communication device. It becomes a personal safety companion that is always within reach.

In an emergency situation, Samsung SOS+* immediately geolocates the user and dispatches traceable private security and medical emergency services in real time. Available 24/7 across South Africa, the service gives users direct access to rapid support when every second matters.

To activate the offer, customers simply need to purchase a Galaxy A57 5G or Galaxy A37 5G device, redeem the offer via Samsung Members app, register, and enjoy a full year of emergency assistance at no additional cost. Customers will have until 31 July 2026 to redeem the offer through Samsung Members.

Samsung SOS+* is provided by AURA, South Africa’s leading emergency response platform. Since 2017, AURA has focused on transforming emergency response through technology, connecting users to real-time, efficient medical and armed response services. The partnership combines Samsung’s trusted mobile innovation with AURA’s advanced emergency response capabilities to create an integrated safety solution that fits naturally into modern life.

The campaign reinforces Samsung’s commitment to making meaningful innovation more accessible, bringing premium experiences and practical everyday solutions to more consumers through the Galaxy A Series.

“Smartphones have become central to how we live, work, connect, and move through the world. With Samsung SOS+*, we are extending that experience even further by offering our customers an added layer of safety and reassurance. The new Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G are designed to deliver powerful everyday experiences, and through this partnership with AURA, they now also provide immediate access to trusted emergency support when it matters most,” says Rae Hargreaves, Head of Marketing: Mobile eXperience at Samsung South Africa.

Whether users are travelling alone, waiting for a ride, managing school runs, or simply wanting greater peace of mind for themselves or their loved ones, Samsung SOS+* offers reassurance in the palm of their hand.

The latest Galaxy A Series devices continue to deliver popular Galaxy experiences including advanced camera capabilities, intelligent AI (artificial intelligence)-powered tools, long-lasting performance, and enhanced connectivity. With the addition of

1. To activate, you must install the Samsung Members app, find the SOS+ banner, and register on the linked AURA platform to complete the process. After registration, it's recommended to also download the separate Samsung SOS+ app and save the toll-free number for full access to the emergency response service. 
2. Terms and Conditions Apply. Offer has to be redeemed by 31 July 2026.
3. AURA has partnered with the best private security & medical companies across South Africa to ensure that you have help wherever you may be. AURA has a live coverage map to see specifically where the services cover you based on your location. AURA currently covers all population centres including all major cities, towns and even certain informal settlements

Bucket Tech: Samsung Unleashes Awesome Intelligence on Galaxy A Series

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. celebrated the launch of its latest Galaxy A series - the Galaxy A56 5G, Galaxy A36 5G, and Galaxy A26 5G - at an exciting event in Johannesburg. Marking a bold new chapter for Samsung’s most popular smartphone line, the latest Galaxy A series comes with Awesome Intelligence, Galaxy’s first-ever comprehensive mobile AI tailored specifically for this range of devices.

For the first time, Galaxy A series users can enjoy fan-favourite Galaxy AI features, previously exclusive to flagship devices, now reimagined for a wider audience. Awesome Intelligence brings powerful, fun, and easy-to-use tools that transform how users create, connect, and explore.

“With Awesome Intelligence, we’re delivering an experience that’s smarter, more creative, and more personal to user and fans of the ever-popular Galaxy A series,” said Justin Hume, Vice President of Mobile Experience at Samsung South Africa. “These new devices bring flagship-level AI features and robust security to more people than ever before, while also debuting Samsung SOS+ – a true game-changer for personal safety in South Africa.”

Unlocking Creativity with Awesome Intelligence

Powered by One UI 7, Awesome Intelligence delivers cutting-edge AI innovations, including Circle to Search, which has taken searching on your phone to the next level. Featuring Awesome Intelligence enhancements, it’s now not just for images; it can now also recognise music playing in videos, helping users identify songs by tapping a button. With it, you can instantly identify songs playing nearby or from memory, thanks to advanced audio recognition.

The Galaxy A series also takes the camera experience to a new level with creator-focused tools, starting with a powerful triple-camera system featuring a 50MP main lens on all devices. AI enhancements ensure every photo and video looks sharp, vibrant, and perfectly lit, thanks to the improved camera set-up. Editing features like Object Eraser let users remove unwanted elements from images, while Filters offer personalised colour and style extraction for a unique visual flair. The result? Effortless creativity with every tap.

All three models feature a robust 5,000mAh battery[i], with Super-Fast Charging 2.0 (45W) support on the Galaxy A56 5G and A36 5G for all-day performance. The entire line-up is built to endure life’s surprises with IP67-rated dust and water resistance[ii] - now included even on the Galaxy A26 5G for the first time.

Introducing Samsung SOS+: Real-Time Emergency Assistance

Samsung also unveiled Samsung SOS+, a personal emergency service developed in partnership with AURA, the country’s leading emergency response platform. Samsung SOS+ connects users to a nationwide network of vetted medical and armed responders.

In an emergency, users dial the dedicated SOS+ number, which instantly shares their live location with AURA’s secure system. Help is then dispatched immediately, with a call-back from the SOS+ control centre to confirm assistance is en route. The service is free for the first 12 months with the purchase of any qualifying device, including the new Galaxy A56, A36, and A26. The Subscription service will be available from 01 May 2025.