Samsung has launched a new SoC called the Exynos ModAP. This processor's claim to fame, among the Exynos range, is that it brings to the stable "the first generation of integrated LTE Modem-AP solution with advanced 4G LTE connectivity". Today Samsung has also rebranded and revamped its app store specifically for Galaxy devices.
Samsung Exynos ModAP
Samsung's new Exynos ModAP SoC should be compatible with 4G networks wherever you find yourself on your travels. It’s the company's first processor with an integrated LTE-A modem which can support 2G, 3G and 4G connectivity – no separate application processor is required.
The particular 28nm example first detailed by Samsung is a low to mid-range part featuring 4 cores, support for cameras up to 8MP and support for Samsung's Exynos RF companion chip. However if Samsung can start to integrate its ModAP modem in higher end processors it will mean that we won't get those smartphone and tablet launches from the company that employ different processors depending upon the region in which you buy them. So it will help Samsung cut any reliance upon Qualcomm.
Samsung Galaxy Apps
If you have ever owned a Samsung Android device you will probably have some experience with 'Samsung Apps' the extra app store foisted upon you, to supplement Google Play. That store is to be replaced and rebranded today with a revamped 'Samsung Galaxy Apps'.
The new service is said to offer "greater customisation of your mobile device, as well as offer various promotions and discounts". The interface in the new store is comprised of three sections; Best Picks, Top, and For Galaxy. The For Galaxy section is subdivided into four sections as follows;
- Galaxy Gifts offers premium apps exclusive on Galaxy devices.
- Galaxy Essentials delivers must-have apps for Galaxy devices.
- Apps for Professionals is the home of business focused apps and other services that fully make use of the features in Galaxy devices.
- Galaxy Specials lets you download apps specifically created by using Samsung SDKs.
I have experienced the current Samsung Apps on my Samsung Galaxy Note 8 and wasn't impressed when I used it to try and get a special Samsung offer I was entitled to following my purchase. I ended up in an endless loop of updating the app store app, attempting to retrieve my bundle offer and being told I needed to install the latest version of the app store app. I did that three times. Following that fruitless exercise, for the last nine months I have never used nor updated any app with Samsung in the title. Perhaps now I will be able to get my welcome gift. As an optimist I will give it another chance later today…
