Galaxy S21 S Pen all but confirmed as Samsung reveals big phone plans for 2021
The Samsung Galaxy S21 is rumored to be getting support for the S Pen, and now Samsung has seemingly confirmed that this possibility is a done deal.
In a letter from TM Roh, president of Samsung Electronics, about what to expect for 2021, he says that the company has been “paying attention to people’s favorite aspects of the Galaxy Note experience and are excited to add some of its most-loved features to other devices in our lineup.”
S Pen is coming to more Samsung phones
That seems to be shorthand for the S Pen, as it’s really the only standout feature of the Galaxy Note 20 and other Note devices. The Galaxy S21 Ultra is said to be the first Samsung phone outside of the Note lineup to get S Pen support, even though you may need a special case to hold the stylus. But it sounds like the Ultra won’t be alone.
Based on Roh’s statement and other leaks, we also expect the S Pen to work with at least one of Samsung’s new foldable phones for 2021, which will likely be the Galaxy Z Fold 3. Being able to take notes, write and sketch on a larger canvas will likely appeal to power users.
More foldable phones and more affordable
Samsung revealed a lot more in its sneak peek, including that the company plans to expand its portfolio of foldable phones while making the category more “accessible” — that’s a buzzword for more affordable.
As great as it is, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 has a list price of $1,999, putting it out of reach of most shoppers. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5G starts at $1,449. However, both devices have been discounted in various sales.
A focus on camera improvements
While the cameras on Samsung’s phones have surpassed the iPhone 12 Pro and Google Pixel 5 in terms of zooming capability, overall image quality has been a step behind the best camera phones. So it’s good to hear from Roh that we should “be on the lookout for super-intelligent, pro-grade camera and video capabilities in 2021.”
Roh teases some of these camera capabilities in his letter, saying that “whether you prefer to edit footage like a pro or just want intelligent, multitasking lenses to do the heavy lifting for you, the Samsung Galaxy will be more than ready to meet the demands of the video-obsessed in 2021.” We just hope video doesn’t take a back seat to photo quality.
UWB and Galaxy Smart Tag
Last but not least, Samsung is investing more in ultra-sideband (UWB) and says that it will enable its devices to do everything from open doors to enable integrated car experiences. And in a nod to what is likely the Galaxy Smart Tag — Samsung’s answer to Apple’s rumored AirTags — the company says it will be “making it easier to quickly locate the things that matter most, from your keys to your wallet — even your family pet.”
