Released alongside its smaller sibling in April 2017, the Galaxy S8+ is the definitive ‘Phablet’ for the bezel-less generation. It takes the revolutionary Infinity Display concept and scales it up to a massive 6.2 inches, yet because of the ultra-narrow aspect ratio, it remains surprisingly usable in one hand. At 173g, it is a substantial, premium device that offers the ultimate canvas for media consumption and productivity. In the UK, it has become the go-to choice for power users who want the largest possible screen in the most compact possible footprint.
Technically, the S8+ shares the same 10nm Exynos 8895 powerhouse and 4GB of RAM as the standard S8, ensuring that the Quad HD+ (2960 x 1440) experience is fluid and responsive. The 6.2-inch Super AMOLED panel offers a staggering 529 PPI and the same HDR Premium certification, making it arguably the best screen for watching Netflix or YouTube on the move. The primary technical advantage of the Plus model is the larger 3,500 mAh battery. Combined with the efficiency of the 10nm processor, it provides true all-day endurance for even the most demanding users.
The device features the same high-performance 12-megapixel camera and 8-megapixel ‘Smart Autofocus’ front camera for superior selfies. It retains the full suite of Samsung’s technical flourishes: fast wireless charging, IP68 waterproofing, and the Iris Scanner. It also supports the ‘DeX’ station, turning the phone into a legitimate workstation. While the rear-mounted fingerprint sensor is a bit of a reach on this larger model, the sheer immersive quality of the screen makes it a minor trade-off. The Galaxy S8+ is a masterclass in modern engineering; it proved that you could have a giant display without the giant ‘brick’ form factor of previous years.