Samsung Galaxy S3 Review
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Review: May 2012 |
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 Last
updated December 2012.
Phone rating: 
In a nutshell: The Samsung Galaxy
S3 is Samsung's flagship phone for 2012. With an enormous HD
screen, a superfast quad-core processor, the latest Android
4.0 software, voice recognition, advanced photo & video
capabilities and a monster-sized battery, it's way out in front
of the competition.
Best buy: *Free* with free line rental from Dialaphone
(Blue) or Dialaphone
(White).
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The Samsung Galaxy S3 was launched on 3 May 2012 at a glitzy event in London
and has taken over from the Galaxy S2 as
the most successful Android phone ever. Our readers voted it
Mobile Phone of the Year 2012 by a huge margin.
Headline features include the 4.8" HD Super AMOLED screen, the quad-core
processor, and the new S Voice voice-control feature. These clearly mark out
how the S3's technology has moved forward in the year since the release of the
S2, but there are a host of other features included that will all help to make
the S3 a better phone.
The first thing you notice about the Galaxy S3 is its size. It's not a small
phone. It's *&%! enormous! Only the Samsung
Galaxy Note 2 is bigger. The iPhone 5 looks
dinky by comparison. But it's big for a reason, and that reason is the 4.8 inch
HD screen. This is the S3's number-one selling point in our opinion. If you
use your smartphone less for making calls and more for web browsing, keeping
up with facebook, playing games, taking photos and watching videos, then it's
all about the screen. And the S3 is the king of screens (apart from the Note
- buy one of those if the S3 isn't big enough for you.) The screen isn't just
big - it's also HD and uses Super AMOLED technology to make it bright and visible
even on a sunny summer's day (remember them?). Now, the Galaxy S2 used Super
AMOLED Plus technology, so it's a teensy-weensy bit disappointing that the S3
doesn't. But the pixel density has been ramped up by about 50% to match the
iPhone's Retina display, so we've no real reason to complain.
Hey - did someone mention the iPhone? A gulf has opened up now between the
iPhone's paltry 4 inch screen and the 4.8 inches of this latest Samsung. Experience
the S3's super-sized screen and you'll be loathe to go back.
 Although
it's long and wide, the S3 is extremely slim - just 8.6mm, which seems impossibly
slim for such a device. And it has a new curvy design with rounded corners.
You won't mistake it for the S2, particularly since it comes in a choice of
blue or white colours.
Embedded in the heart of the S3 is a 1.4GHz quad-core processor, the first
quad-core in a Samsung phone, which enables fast multi-tasking, zero-lag photography
and super-smooth HD video and games. With a full 1GB of RAM and up to 64GB of
built-in memory, there's nothing to frustrate the potential of the processor.
In addition you can add a further 32GB of memory via the microSD card slot,
and Samsung are giving two years' 50GB free Dropbox cloud storage too.
The S3 runs the Ice Cream Sandwich 4.0 flavour of Android, with an update to
4.1 Jelly Bean, plus Samsung's TouchWiz
user interface, which has been tried and tested on many Samsung phones over
the years. But the S3 has many new features built into the user interface. Samsung
seem to be taking a lead from Apple's Siri voice
recognition tool here. "S Voice" is an advanced voice recognition
system that lets you give commands to your phone to turn the alarm to snooze,
activate the camera and answer a call. S Voice won't talk back to you like Siri,
but you can get on-screen confirmation when needed. Another feature is "Direct
Call", which automatically switches from messaging to place a voice call
to someone if you lift the phone to your ear. "Smart Stay" uses the
front-facing camera to sense when you are looking at the phone and keep the
display from going dark. The camera interface has all sorts of social features
that let you tag faces and sort your pictures according to who's in them. We
don't know if these features are going to transform the way we use our phones.
They feel like the beginning of a transformation that may come about in a few
years' time when the technology has developed further. But you can see that
smartphones are evolving from clever phones into all-round personal assistants.
The camera on the S3 is basically the same as on the S2. It's not going to
grab much attention in the press, but for the user it works very well, taking
8 megapixel still shots and full 1080p HD video. A secondary front-facing video
camera is available for making HD video calls. The quad-core processor means
that there's no visible lag in using the camera. Burst mode lets you take 8
shots and the camera chooses the best (based on smile & blink detection,
contrast and blurring), so there's no more excuse for blurry shots of people
with their eyes closed. And like the HTC One X,
you can take still shots while shooting HD video.
The media player works brilliantly on the S3, with the quad-core processor
helping to push HD videos along without any jerkiness. You can mirror your screen
on a large-screen TV wirelessly too.
Another improvement in the Galaxy S3, which hasn't grabbed any headlines, but
which could prove to be very significant, is the upgraded 2100mAh battery. This
compares with the 1650mAh battery on the S2. Only time will tell whether the
demands of the big screen and quad-core processor can be satisfied by this battery,
but experience with the Galaxy Nexus, which has the same size screen and a 1750mAh
battery indicates that the S3's battery life will be at least as good as the
S2's.
The Galaxy S3 seems to us to be a worthy successor to the S2. It takes everything
that made the S2 such a success, and makes its key features even better. For
us, it's all about the HD screen and the quad-core processor. The bigger battery
is also very welcome. But the many improvements to the user interface also add
to the all-round capabilities of the phone. It seems to be a better package
that even the HTC One X, which is technically it's
closest competitor. And as for the iPhone
- the S3 is practically out there on a different plane entirely. We see the
market polarising even more between iPhone users craving ease of use and Android
users enjoying sheer power & capability - which the S3 delivers by the bucketload.
Update (15 Oct 2012): A 4G version of the phone, called the Samsung
Galaxy S3 4G LTE is now available.
Features of the Samsung Galaxy S3 include:
- 8 megapixel camera with LED flash, autofocus, face detection, smile shot,
4x digital zoom, full HD video recording (up to 1080p)
- 1.9 megapixel front camera with 720p HD video recording
- Display: Super AMOLED, 16 million colours, 1280 x 720 pixels HD (4.8 inches)
capacitive touchscreen
- Music player
- MP3 & WAV ringtones
- Integrated handsfree speaker
- AGPS with Google Maps
- Messaging: SMS, MMS, instant messaging, email
- Personal organiser functions
- Memory: 16/32/64GB plus microSD memory card slot (up to 32GB), 1GB RAM,
50GB free Dropbox cloud storage
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB 2.0, 3.5mm audio jack, DLNA, TV-Out,
NFC
- Internet: Web browser with Flash support, GPRS, EDGE, 3G, HSPA (21 Mbps
download)
- Quadband GSM (850/900/1800/1900), dual band 3G (900/2100)
- Size: 137 x 71 x 8.6 mm
- Weight: 133g
- Battery: 2100mAh battery
Samsung Galaxy S3 User Reviews
Love your mobile? Hate it? Please share your experiences to help other
people choose the phone that's best for them. Please do not review this
phone if you have not used it. This is a review site, not a forum, so
please don't just ask questions. Please do not use swear words or offensive
language, and please, no advertising!
Average rating from 88 reviews: 
Reviewed by roger. from israel on 18th May 2013
very.nice.phone.for.the.price.here.in.israel.a.lot.of
people.buy.this.phone.for.its.reliability.and.easy.to.use
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Reviewed by Killy from UK on 10th May 2013
I am blessed to own IPhone 5 and S3. The iPhone 5 is the rolls Royce
but S3 is the Ferrari, the S3 build quality can't compare to the Apple
icon but the s3 just captivates my attention in ways the IOS device
can't.
The Apple is the better phone, mail and text are better on the Apple
device but media is so much better on the Android device and as a play
thing the S3 kills the IPhone!
I hate the Internet on the S3 but I love the ease with which the device
can be used for scanning and photo managing.
S3 is a good phone but not great, IPhone is a great handset but oh so
boring, predictable and lacking eye catching ability
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Reviewed by durhamdad54 from england on 5th May
2013
well I have had my sg3 for a week now and I am so far very impressed
with it I started out with the Samsung galaxy s then changed to apple
with the 4s which is a good phone but I feel lacks something so decided
to return to android and because the basics are still the same it was
easy to get my head around it I wanted the sg4 but thought the extra
contract monthly fee didn't sway me. so to the mobile as expected very
fast. battery life is what I expected given the stuff I have running
in the background lol video is smooth and pics are superb music player
is loud and speaking of loud I drive a wagon so needed a mob with loud
ringtones ha ha its loud trust me its loud all in all a good quality
mob which will last me a while
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Reviewed by Keith from England on 21st Apr 2013
I decided to go for this phone after being stuck with the boring, none
customizable out of date iPhone 4.
I'm extremely pleased to be out the apple bubble! This phone is brilliant.
I'm absolutely loving it. Great display, fast processor and very customizable.
I have to charge it every day, but this is a minor irritation.
I thoroughly recommend this phone.
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Reviewed by pezzer from england on 19th Apr 2013
got my galaxy s3 on monday 15th i was looking forward to havin been
using a iphone since the 3g version came out and my last was the 4s.
every thing was fine till friday 19th phones going back and getting
a replacement handset because the power button is stuck cant turn phone
off or on. other than that phone does everything is says and more but
power button and actual placement were it is need to be looked at such
a shame thats the only gripe i have with the handset i will still give
it four stars
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Reviewed by Scott from England on 25th Mar 2013
Very good!
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Reviewed by Alan from Scotland on 17th Mar 2013
What can I say that hasn't already been said? Had the s2 before this
and loved it, decided to upgrade only out envey and I haven't been disappointed.
Slick performance amazing screen display brilliant camera all in all
an amazing device and if you can get this phone you will never regret
it. Unmissable
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Reviewed by Matt from England on 10th Mar 2013
Had this phone for 5 months now. Overall very good. The data reception
is particularly good and regularly gives me 5mb/second when I have a
reasonable signal. My only gripe is that it's a bit quiet when making
phone calls. Not noticable when I'm somewhere quiet but if I'm trying
to make a call when walking outside or in a room with children I strugle
to hear. I also have a problem with my micro sd card which keeps getting
corrupted but I'm not sure if his is due to the phone or the card. However,
the size and quality of the screen is outstanding and when combined
with the good data connection this phone keeps me well and truly entertained.
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Reviewed by Alan from scotland on 8th Mar 2013
Excellent phone loved the s2 and this ha exceeded that. Great screen
size great battery life great customization great performance. You won't
be diapointed
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Reviewed by bobby from england on 20th Feb 2013
having been an i-phone fan for years i decided a change was due. the
I-phone 5 isnt that much different from the 4s other than the screen
size so i wasnt interested in getting virtually the same phone. Having
seen a couple of mates with the samsung S3 and being drawn to the quality
of the screen i got one on upgrade. I must say it is so far a fantastic
phone, call quality is clear, the screen is as near perfect as you can
get and the apps are the same as I-tunes but most are free. you can
personalize the phone unlike the I-phone and its great for everyday
use. battery lasts a day and if you get caught short for power, any
micro USB connector will charge it. the size is just right and any bigger
would make it too big. must admit that the I-phones are very easy to
use and set up but the samsung can do just about anything when you get
the hang of it.
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Reviewed by lee from england on 20th Feb 2013
had my s3 as an upgrade since august 2012, already on my 3rd one ! 1st
phone froze after 2 months, got stuck on the samsung logo, nothing could
be done to restore it, so eventually got a replacement and that has
lasted a couple of months too, kept switching itself off every 2 hours,
done a factory re-set, had no apps on it except the bog standard ones
on the phone and still it kept switching off and freezing!
hopefully 3rd time lucky, battery is better than my old htc desire hd.
if this 3rd phone doesnt last long, im going back to HTC.
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Reviewed by gerard from scotland on 29th Jan 2013
i've had the phone for over a week now and i find it to be a excellent
device.
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Reviewed by jimmy from canada on 23rd Jan 2013
sublime !!!
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Reviewed by Tinkerbelle from United Kingdom on
18th Jan 2013
Excellent. The best phone I have ever owned.
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Reviewed by Steve Richards from england on 17th
Jan 2013
Without doubt the best phone ive ever had. I love everything about it
from the large screen to the full custosmisation of the homescreens.
Cant wait for the galaxy s4 to arrive. Had htc in the past and although
i prefer sense 4.0 over touchwiz i much prefer the samsung hardware.
Would recommend this phone over everything else.
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Reviewed by Dawn from UK on 13th Jan 2013
Absolutely love this phone. Upgraded from the s2, which I thought was
great. Gorgeous screen and despite its huge size, is still comfortable
to use. However, the camera on my s2 took better pics (maybe I have
a faulty unit). Also, wish I had gone for the lte version for the extra
ram. As I fill the phone with apps,noticing occasional lag and homscreen
redrawing coming out of apps. Look forward to the S4. Highly recommend
this phone. Amazing.
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Reviewed by mobilereview from India on 10th Jan
2013
Samsung Galaxy S3 is incredible phone with all latest application and
technology configuration.
Samsung Galaxy S3 leading the mobile phone market with its best features
and functionality. You can not compare it with any other mobile phone
in case of technologies, features and costing.
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Reviewed by Ben from UK on 23rd Dec 2012
I've had the s3 for a couple of months now and find I'm becoming less
enamoured of it.
At first I was wowed by the screen and functionality. But as time has
gone on a couple of really annoying glitches have started to rear their
heads.
First. It has slowed down a lot since new. I'm fanatical about closing
unused apps but the system is getting more and more bloated. I have
just over 800mb user available ram and the system uses close to 500
mb of that. I clear the memory and it goes down to about 300 mb used
but quickly rises again. I reset a few times which solves it for about
a week but then creeps back up again. And a phone that requires a reset
every few weeks isn't fit for purpose.
Second. Apps keep on crashing. To resolve I have to delete and reinstall
the apps that crash. Annoying!!
Third. I have an issue with setting up my email. When I first set up
it syncs fine but subsequent syncs say there was a connection error.
An email to Samsung garnered the uninterested response that its my email
account that's at fault. But it works fine on my galaxy pro and my iPhone
so I know it's not my account. A quick google search shows I'm not the
only one experiencing these issues.
So much for this being a super phone. It can't even get the basics right.
It's a shame because I had an s2 for a while and that had none of these
issues.
The s3 would be a great phone but for these issues. And being told by
Samsung that there are no issues only serves to put me off Samsung for
my next phone.
Rating: 
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Reply by Mark from UK on 27th Dec
2012
ben, it isnt a Samsung problem regarding your email, I have a HTC, and
experience same problem, and it was down to hotmail itself with me..
Reply by Ben from UK on 31st Dec 2012
Mark, Thanks for your reply. Turns out it was the phone but it was faulty.
A friend with an s3 was experiencing none of the issues I was having
so I took it back this week. I was given a replacement and email is
working fine on this new one. All the apps that were crashing are now
running fine on my new s3 too so must have had a faulty processor. It's
working like a dream now and my faith is restored. :-)
Reviewed by adel el husseiny from Egypt on 22nd
Dec 2012
Well done Samsung
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Reviewed by Rob from England on 14th Dec 2012
I've had this phone a month now coming from a Nokia C7. First I had
the LTE 4G version and now the 3G version. I returned the LTE version
as I found the battery life awful, it would struggle to last 12 hours
with minimal use and 5 hours with gaming etc. (I understand this is
due to the 4G antenna). Other than that I find the phone great. The
3G version's battery life however is fantastic and can last a day with
normal use and gaming. Other than that I find the phone great.
I was in two minds between the IPhone 5 and Galaxy S3. After using many
friends IPhone 4s and some 5's I found there wasn't many differences
between the 4s and 5, also the price of the phone wasn't worth it, also
many apps which are free on android you have to pay for on ITunes. I
picked the Galaxy in the end and I'm pleased with my choice. After getting
used to it, I find it easy to use although the IPhone and IOS system
is still easier and simpler to use. The phone is slightly too large
and I feel that phones should get no bigger as 4.8 inches feels already
big, and just about manageable in one hand. The phone does everything
well, such as texting, calls, maps, internet, apps etc. Little things
such as been able to Bluetooth to other phones, the notification light,
notifications bar, memory card slot and micro USB charger improves user
experience and makes it easier to use coming from different phones and
platforms. I do feel that there is sometimes too much customisation
in some categories which make setting up the phone confusing but once
the phone is still very simple to use. So far I've had no problems worth
noting. I would avoid the getting the 4G version at the moment unless
you live in a 4G city and will get a 4G contract, otherwise the compromise
with battery life is just too big to make it viable.
One frustrating note is that I'm on Orange (EE) and I still haven't
received the android update to Jelly Bean. The LTE version came with
Jelly Bean which is an improvement over the previous android software.
But as of yet it still hasn't been released on the 3G version which
is a shame.
Still a fantastic phone worth considering!
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Reviewed by Tim from England on 7th Dec 2012
I went from iOS (3, 3G and then 4) to Android (HTC Desire, One X, SGS2,
Nexus and then SGS3). I thought the SGS3 was a cracking phone but it
was too large. As a phone the only fault was the call quality. Simply
too quiet and the call quality wasn't the greatest. I'm back to iOS
(using the 3) and the call quality is much superior. I'm coming back
to iOS and when work is sorted will go for the 4S and my trusty iPad.
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Reviewed by Who knows from Who knows on 14th Nov
2012
Galaxy s3 is an ok phone. Havin come from an iPhone 4s I thought the
larger screen would be great, i actually prefer the 3.5" screen on the
iPhone. I can use it completely one handed unlike the s3. My other negative
about the s3 is the allshare cast function. Having bought the allshare
cast dongle and using it a lot i found films stuttered and were jerky.
Not quite what was promised when purchased.
I have returned the s3 and got another 4s. Why didn't I get the 5, well
because the phone doesnt warrant the price.
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Reviewed by Ryan from Wales on 11th Nov 2012
Had my S3 in pebble blue for a few days and to call this phone perfect
would be an understatement it is simply magnificent everything about
it is just right I'm a fan of iPhones but next to this well it's like
chalk and cheese obviously the apps on Google Play aren't as good as
on ITunes but personally I just stick to the basics so its no real problem
so that's an Android phone and an Apple tablet which should make me
a dead cert for the Nobel Peace Prize lol
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Reply by Ryan from Wales on 15th Nov
2012
Update - Sadly my S3 fell and broke as I was getting out of my car last
night - this was by no means a big drop about 2 feet at most I was fully
aware of the lesser build quality when buying it but IMOafter such a
small drop then to brake completely is absurd
I've had iPhones withstand bigger falls than that in the past which
have been accidental of course I've arranged for a replacement in white
and I'm still a huge fan of the phones features its such a shame that
its built like a house on sand
Reviewed by lm1980 from UK on 28th Oct 2012
Update
Having had the phone for 5 days and heavily using/playing with it and
installing a custom ROM the phone is quite amazing. Can't find anything
negative to say. Don't think I'll be returning to any iPhone. Android/Samsung
rock.
With this custom ROM and a different launcher the phone not only looks
great but is super fast. Battery life has improved as I've got rid of
loads of the stock apps.
Buy this phone with confidence.
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Reviewed by unknown from uk on 26th Oct 2012
I've had the galaxy s3 for while now. Great phone in my opinion.
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Reviewed by Gordon from SouthAfrica on 25th Oct
2012
I cannot believe the remark the battery can last you half a day, I did
not pay all this money to run the phone with most of the stuff turned
off I could use a simple $20 Nokia, this is a disgrace that Samsung
would release a phone like this with a 2100 battery, My iPhone 4S with
all the apps on full last me 2 days, give us a free more powerful battery
Samsung or take all your phones back or exchange for Note 1, this really
sucks and by the way the updates Jelly Bean software does not help battery
life almost at all:-(
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Reply by Andy from South Africa on
12th Dec 2012
I agree with Gordon on the poor battery life of the S3. If you have
everything running in the background the battery will last about a day,
which is very poor for such a high end phone. I guess if Samsung had
put a bigger battery in the phone then it would have become too bulky
but why produce such a feature rich phone that can't run for long without
having to visit a charger? Maybe as battery technology advances things
will improve but at the moment, and even with Jelly Bean installed,
I have to turn off quite a few features in order to make my battery
last more than one day!
Reviewed by lm1980 from uk on 23rd Oct 2012
Had iPhones since they came out but have had other phones when I get
bored of the limitations the iphone has. That time came and went today
when decided to trade in my 4s. Wasn't sure which way I was going to
go. BlackBerry, android or back to basics.
Looked at the moto razr maxx. The shop didn't have any in stock though.
Looked at the Sony experia t. But wasnt really impressed. Then came
the s3. Ok it isn't the 4g version but who needs upto 100mbps when the
device is still only a smartphone. 100Mbps broadband and a smartphone
with WiFi is a better idea.
Been playing around with it now for the past 8 hours and I'm pretty
impressed. Its now setup and running how I want. Battery drain appears
a little heavier than I thought, but its very early days.
At times its not as smooth as the 4s but there are less if not no limitations
to what you can do with it.
For now 5 stars.
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Reviewed by NS from UK on 20th Oct 2012
only had my S3 for a week now so cant really comment on long term use
but i will say there has been no issues with the phone at all so far..It
is a fantastic phone and does so much I am sure it will take me a while
to master it compltetly ! I upgraded on three from a HTC wildfire (which
i loved) and couldnt decide between the s3 and oneX. After speaking
to friends who had each and also some independant retailers I went for
the s3 and am realy pleased.Size wise, yes it feels big at first but
becuase its so slim and light, it quickly feels natural to have a big
screen I dont think i could go back to a small screen again now..definately
recommend getting this phone.
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Reviewed by Ronnie from Scotland on 20th Oct 2012
I have a Samsung Galaxy S3 and an IPhone 5 and they both have good points
and bad.
The galaxy S notifications/quick switcher is great.
I can quickly switch off Bluetooth etc, change settings much better
than the iPhone.
I had Sbsettings on my old phone after jailbreaking but the Samsung
is much slicker.
Screen-I do like the galaxy S for videos but its not as good as the
iPhone for text.
The iPhone 5 display is sharper and easier to read text.
Internet- No competition here the iPhone is much quicker displays the
full site and pictures
The Galaxy is good but the text is hard to read sometimes and not all
images display correctly.
Apps-The main thing stopping me getting an android phone before was
the apps as I'd spent a bit on some apps on the iPhone (Tomtom mainly)
but was pleasantly surprised that most of the apps I have were available
in the play store and the google maps with navigation is decent.
Although some of the apps are better on the iPhone no doubt there will
be updates to get hand sand functionality. Anyone worrying about apps
don't as most are available and decent
Email-love the built in gmail on the galaxy except it doesn't fill the
screen properly but I think there is an update due. The IPhone email
is great as well and displays everything perfect but I like the fact
I can archive and label easier on the galaxy. I have used the gmail
app on the iPhone and its close to the built in gmail on the galaxy.
Customisation-No contest here galaxy all the way. Brilliant that I can
change the keyboard add widgets etc not much to say about iPhone on
this....
Keyboard- Galaxy S3 was a nightmare to start with the predictive text
was rubbish installed perfect keyboard and swift key and I'm much happier.
It's still not as accurate as the iPhone BUT I do prefer the long press
to get numbers and alternative characters.
Size-it is difficult to use with one hand but in the main it's not a
problem.
iPhone feels good in one hand and you can do everything one handed.
Overall I like both of them I reach for the galaxy S3 for videos, games
and maps and reach for the iPhone for calls, web, Facebook and photos.
Rating:
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Reply by Rob from England on 21st
Oct 2012
Great review, thank you
Reviewed by waz from uk on 20th Oct 2012
ive had my s3 more then a week and i was using a iphone 4s but this
is the top of the tree of high end phones, mashallah, i really love
the size weight functionality, and the rest, i can say iphone is good
this is better
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Reviewed by Stephen from England on 18th Oct 2012
I have recently upgraded to the Samsung Galaxy S3, coming from a HTC
Desire, and I can definitely say without a doubt that the phone is a
terrific bit of kit. You can't really call these things phones anymore.
Although 'smartphone' is the common term, they are really a handheld
multifunctional, mobile device. Except for something like the just released
Galaxy Note 2, the S3 has to be the top Android phone right now and
it easily competes with the likes of the latest IPhone. Although it's
not 4G just yet, over the IPhone 5 you get extendable memory for storage
in the form an SD card slot, removable battery, NFC (Near Field Communication
technology) and the Android OS just keeps getting better. The large
screen is of course is one of its main attractions. It's so clear and
bright. Colours are vivid and the definition is superb. One of the gripes
going about seems to be about the S3's build quality. Ok it's not made
of tougher materials like aluminium, such as on the HTC One X, and it
is an all plastic affair and it's really thin. But I can see what Samsung
have done here. Given the size of the phone for that great screen and
the hefty rated battery for all that chip horsepower under the bonnet,
Samsung have had to keep the weight down and I think they have done
a good job. With a flip style case, my S3 is lighter than my HTC Desire
with a Flexi sheild case on it. The weight coupled with the thinness
I can say makes it pocket friendly.
In regard to battery life, like with all these devices, the S3 is a
power hungry beast and you can easily drain it in the best part of a
day with a lot of usage. Until battery technology takes a leap forward
to stand up to it, I would advise to keep an additional battery to hand
if you are a power user. Another thing I really like is that it recharges
quickly, way quicker than my HTC.
In terms of functionality in the S3, there is a lot to like and it does
it all very well. There are some clever features in there. For me the
S3 is does everything I would really want out of a device like this
right now and I can only envisage upgrading when the next 'big thing'
arrives, which for many people will no doubt be 4G, when it takes off
in this country. Overall, the S3 is superb and feature packed smartphone.
You can't go wrong.
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Reviewed by unitysound from england on 18th Oct
2012
To me the samsung galaxy s3 is the best phone at the moment
Iphone is ok but if you want a truely all round phone then this is it
Mainly because apple has fallen way behind in seeing to the
Issues of there handsets but they will get there while samaung and android
seem to be clearly way in front
Gone are battery issues of which have been one main flaw in thia business
of mobile smart phones but even with a screen as big as this all with
notice the improvement as sets a marker for all behind
Memory
Once again android and samsungs main problem was memory internal well
that's totally gone now with sgs3 iv got a 32gb and 64gb memory in mine
its like or replaces a computer and laptop
Feature
Everything up to date is here with yes some gimmicks and some not the
point here is that it does everything to a top standard not matched
by any other as yet
Yes apples looks better in terms of body BUT WERE NOT TALKING ABOUT
A WOMEN
SO ITS WHATS INSIDE
Iphone is a good easy to use phone but it can't match serious hardware
and serious software BUT IN THE FUTURE WE WILL SEE IF APPLE CHANGE THERE
IDEAS AND STEP TO THE PLAY AND GIVE THERE LOYAL CUSTOMERS SOMETHING
EXTRA FOR THERE MONEY
Rating:
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Reviewed by Kafu from England on 18th Oct 2012
Only had this a phone for 24 hours after spending hours and days researching
the best value phone online after sending back the hugley over priced
and very overrated I phone 5. Previously had the HTC desire s so was
looking really at the One X or the S3. Everyone kepy telling me to go
for the S3 so I did. With only 24 hours use so most of the apps etc
I have not even played with or used I can safely say I love this phone.
My only concern was the size of the phone. I do like small handsets
but once you get used to the size its great. The screen is fantastic,
so clear. My HTC struggled on web pages and took a while to load pages
but his bad boy is on another level, its so fast.
Use of the phone is different to HTC but thats something I will get
used too.
I cannot understand how anyone can own a i phone 5 over this bad boy.
Cheaper as well and streets ahead. Great phone.
Rating:
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Reviewed by steve from England on 8th Oct 2012
Have always loved android phones but always had HTC, so when I upgraded
I wanted the one x. Went for the s3 and in my opinion made the best
choice. Without doubt the best phone on the market bar none. Much better
then that tiny old fashioned iphone 5. Love everything about it, 10
stars if not more...
Rating:
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Reviewed by Muhammad Usman from Australia on 7th
Oct 2012
since the launch of iphone 5 i've been watching videos and reading comparison
of both phone galaxy s3 and iphone 5, my friend bought iphone and me
S3, and finally i can say i am pretty happy with my choice. its been
3 days using this phone and loving it. mainly worried about battery
upgraded from xperia x10 and the battery just finished so early but
s3 battery so far going very very good. 2nd its really pleased my when
i get my hands on s3 whereas iphone size despite being a bigger looks
like to me same as 4s. not much difference. overall i m fully satisfied
with my s3.
Rating:
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Reviewed by Andy from South Africa on 2nd Oct
2012
I was due for an upgrade on my contract and having been in love with
my iPhone 4 for the past two years, I just couldn't decide what to get
as a replacement phone.
I've had a bit of a love hate relationship with my iPhone, I love the
solid, quality feel to the phone, it feels like it's made of a chunk
on aluminum but then there's the restrictions that iTunes places on
it.
I therefore thought long and hard about changing to Android. In the
end I decided to give it a go and yesterday received a Galaxy S3.
Straight off I must say that compared to an iPhone the Samsung feels
cheap and not as well put together. Compared to cars the iPhone is a
Mercedes and the Samsung is a Toyota. This is not necessarily a bad
thing, as Toyota's are very capable cars but don't have the same feel
of quality as a Mercedes. However with these two makes of cars there
is huge price difference but with the iPhone and the Samsung, the Samsung
actually costs around the same, at least in South Africa, which makes
me wonder why not make it more solid, like an iPhone?
I must admit that the ease of use of the Galaxy's Android system is
so much better than the iPhone's. Once it's connected to your PC via
the USB cable it's just a matter of drag and drop whatever music, movies
or photos over to one of the folders in the Galaxy. It even offers to
convert unsupported music or video formats as it copies! This is a huge
improvement over the very restrictive iPhone/iTunes way of doing things.
In fact there are so many features on the Galaxy that it will probably
take a week to get to learn them all.
I would give the Galaxy S3 a 9 out of 10 score, it's just the cheap
plastic feel of it that lets it down; otherwise it would get top marks.
I guess in time I will get used to the plastic feel of the Galaxy, maybe
I can find a case for it that improves this one problem?
Rating:
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Reply by Gary from Ireland on 29th
Oct 2012
I dunno why people complain bout plastic feel of the galaxy S 3 and
the quality of the iphone. I've had 2 iphone and always had them in
a case. Same with my Gs3 so the build quality is irrelevant as far as
I'm concerned cos most people I no put a case on their fone so really.
Also the 1st 3 iphone were plastic.
Reviewed by Edward Davis from UK on 1st Oct 2012
Moved from iphone 4s to S3 - traded phone in towards iphone 5 as could
not get used to android. Main issue is the screen; far from scratch
resistant and had hair line scratches within the day of owning. iphone
so much more scratch resistant.
Rating:
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Reply by Phil from UK on 4th Oct 2012
You must've been playing football with it or something then...I've had
mine for almost 5 months and it still looks like polished glass...totally
mirror smooth. It's toughened Gorilla Glass so you must have had your
pockets lined with sandpaper or something....(or, more likely, are an
Apple FB trying to downgrade the rating of the phone!!) ;-)
Reply by Edwaed Davis from UK on 4th
Oct 2012
Far from FB of Apple as just taken iphone back to store for full refund
within 14 days. Not worth £600 must have been a faulty screen as Samsung
Store also provided a full refund
Reviewed by Mark Hulme from UK on 21st Sep 2012
I have had my S3 for 6 month's now. It is a very very good phone. Apart
from 2 major flaws. The first One is the Svoice. Which is useless. The
second one which I cannot understand why Samsung have not fixed yet.Is
the Texting. Specifically that you cannot Add Word in the dictionary.
Which is ridiculous. I am now telling people to go for the Iphone.
Rating:
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Reply by Steve from UK on 23rd Sep
2012
Mark, you must have an early pre-release S3 as it's been available in
the UK for just under 4 months. I find S Voice to be very accurate,
but like Siri it's a bit of a gimmick. If you are using the Samsung
keyboard typing in a word adds it to the dictionary. Better still, install
the free Swype Beta keyboard or another keyboard more suited to your
needs. The beauty of Android is the ability to customise and change
rather than being told how it should be by the iPeople. Perhaps an Iphone
would suit your needs better. Hope you enjoy it. :)
Reply by shaft from UK on 29th Sep
2012
Have you tried 3rd party apps? Try Touchpal Keyboard and Handcent SMS....Explore
the Google Play market mate, you may give it 5 stars ;o)
Reviewed by Rich from UK on 20th Sep 2012
Everything about this phone is brilliant except it doesn't include 4G
even though everybody would have you believe that it does.
I would suggest waiting until the Samsung Galaxy S3 LTE is launched
before upgrading.
Rating:
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Reviewed by Steve from England on 18th Sep 2012
I waited until the iPhone 5 was announced until deciding which phone
to upgrade to from my iPhone 4.
When the specs of the iPhone 5 came to light I decided it was time for
a change, hence my SGS3!
There's a bit of a learning curve when moving away from iOS, but once
you get to grips with it, this is a fantastic phone.
Battery drain was a bit of a problem to start with, until I learned
to make sure no apps were running in the background.
Otherwise, it's been amazing. Highly recommended.
Rating:
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Reviewed by Paul Stringer from England on 18th
Sep 2012
Upgraded from iPhone 4 and I love it!
Wasn't sure whether to wait for iPhone 5 but glad I didn't because it's
underwhelming to say the least.
Rating:
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Reviewed by MT from UK on 10th Sep 2012
Had this phone just over a week so can't comment on how it works over
time etc. I can however give my initial thoughts.
Firstly, to get the bad point out of the way, I had an issue with the
screen lock not locking automatically after being set to, screen staying
on after turning off charger and smart stay not working. On reading
forums this appears to be a common issue but I got an exchange through
my network and all seems good. Now that smart stay is working properly
I find it a really useful feature.
Now onto the phone itself, so far I am very impressed. The screen is
awesome which was the main reason I went for it in the end. Now before
any apple fanboys read this review, I did consider the 4s but the Samsung
far outdid this handset. I have an iPad which I love but to have that
on a smaller scale in my pocket just didn't appeal and the smaller screen
compared to the samsung was also a bad point.
I had a nexus one prior to the s3 and this phone has taken android to
the next level. The smoothness is great, touch whizz I find a friendly
system, a few points I don't like but these aren't worth mentioning
as you get those wit any handsets. S-voice, whilst not great, I find
it useful for getting the weather and setting alarms. Most of the time
it hears me correctly and on comparing it to friends 4s, is very close
to Siri in its effectiveness.
The usability of the handset takes a bit of getting used to due to size
but once you get used to it then it is no problm and for browsing/texting/taking
photos and using apps and the big screen soon comes into its own.
The only real grip I have found so far is the stock keyboard which I
find awkward with the way it auto corrects. This was quickly fixed with
an app from the play store which has made typing a breeze.
I also find that google maps works far better on the s3 than on any
other android phone I have used ( probably due to the power of the processor)
but seeing as I use maps often it is another big fat tick in the box.
I am tired of reading reviews that state " apple is the best" or "droid
is the best" without any evidence to back this up. I have had experience
of both and can say from personal preference that the s3 is the best.
From a tech point of view, it's hard to better the s3 at the moment.
If you want a user friendly phone with a big screen that's great for
browsing/ apps then this is the one. If you find yourself wanting to
be like the masses and want a handset because it has a big shiny apple
on the back without considering what's inside then the 4s is for you.
I would have no hesitation in suggesting the s3 to anyone.
Rating:
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Reviewed by David from U.K. on 9th Sep 2012
My wife has the galaxy s2 and when I had set the device up with her
SIM card and played about with phone I was very impressed. I had at
the time an iPhone 4s but I decided to sell that and go for the galaxy
s3.
At the time of writing this I have had the phone only 3 days and I'm
finding it hard to put the phone down it it is just a great phone there
are tons of apps most of the apps I used on iPhone are available to
download to this device.
I charge phone every night just the same as I did with iPhone.
The only thing I am concerned about is how hot the device becomes when
being used my wife's s2 has this same issue.
Overall I am very pleased with this phone and this website is spot on
when coming to choose your next mobile phone.
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Reviewed by lee from englqnd on 8th Sep 2012
NOW WE ARE TALKING
FOR THE TIME (YEAR) AND CURRENT TECHNOLOGY
THIS IS THE BEST PHONE ON THE MARKET BAR NONE
WARNING
IF YOU JUST WANT A PHONE TO PHONE DONT GET THIS JUST GET A PHONE
IF YOU FULLY KNOW WHAT YEAR IT IS AND ARE IN TO TECH (HEAVY USER)
YOU CANT GO WRONG
SUPER BIT OF KIT
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Reviewed by Nick from England on 7th Sep 2012
I've had my S3 for a couple of weeks now and on a whole I think it's
excellent phone. Battery easily lasts the whole day with good use and
operates smoother than the OneX. One disappointment though is the the
supposed "Gorilla glass 2". Without being dropped once, other objects
in pocket or even being laid down screen first, somehow I already have
several scratches. The only thing I can imagine is that it has been
scratched as I slide it into my pocket. My two year old HTC Desire on
the other hand HAS been dropped, laid down screen first etc. and actually
has less scratches.
More like "trophy cabinet glass"
Be warned, buy a screen protector!!
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Reviewed by Dave from Australia on 3rd Sep 2012
Had this phone for about 6 weeks and love everything about it except
for the poor signal.Struggle to get reception in places i have never
had trouble with before.If not for this problem i would say this phone
was perfect.I can put my sim card in another phone and get good reception
so i know the issue is with the S3.
Rating:
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Reviewed by Michael from UK on 1st Sep 2012
I do not like this phone at all.
I fell out of my pocket on concrete floor and now I have nice brocken
screen.
Going back to shop to claim new one.
Rating:  Reply
Reply by Frank from UK on 3rd Sep
2012
Really? It fell out of your pocket onto a concrete floor and you are
going to claim for a new one? Guess Samsung could be at fault for making
a phone that jumps out of peoples pockets. Is that why you don't like
it?
Reply by Mark from Uk on 3rd Sep 2012
How is this an things to do with the actual phone,? Come on editors
how can you allow this as genuine review of a handset?
Reply by Gary from UK on 8th Sep 2012
I can't believe you can give a bad review for your own error. Whether
you had a new or old phone would probably have been the same result!
Final thought, manufacturers and shops increase there product prices
based on people like you from their own incompetence, taking damaged
products back (for potentially free replacement) which we pay for!!
Reply by Bob from The real world on
8th Sep 2012
I know what this OP means. My iPhone fell onto a tiled floor and smashed
so iPhones are rubbish. My wifes Nokia fell into the sink and stopped
working so clearly they are rubbish. My mates Samsung got stolen so
they are the worst.
Reply by Michael from Islee of Man on
19th Sep 2012
I do think that they should work on making the screens more resistant
to being dropped as this can happpen to anyone. It can cost a lot to
replace thes screens. I think the old phones were more resistant to
being dropped so why is it not the case regarding smart phones etc
Reply by DA from UK on 9th Oct 2012
This is a joke right ?? Grow up and accept responsibility for your own
mistakes, the world already has too many scroungers who have to blame
everything on someone else. You dropped it, you broke it, you are responsible.
Reply by Mobile Phones UK from UK on
9th Oct 2012
OK, let's stop this thread now. I think that everything that can be
said has been said.
Reviewed by Merv from U.k on 21st Aug 2012
I have now had my Samsung s3 for couple of weeks having problems with
Bluetooth connects to car make calls fine receiving calls phone rings.
Answer phone no connection to person calling can,t hear them they can,t
hear me seems to be fault in the system . I can,t live with that Bluetooth
in car is built in I am at the stage of swapping the Samsung. Because
of this problem I read in reviews. That their seems to be problems relating
to different bluetooth. Spec. Compatible issues. It is a great shame
because it is a very good phone
Rating:
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Reviewed by Ferdie from Philippines on 18th Aug
2012
Excellent features with top of the line specs. Design wise? Watch: youtube.com/watch?v=-7uL-DON5FU
Screen is just enough for me. Not too large, yet fascinating. A state-of-the-art
smartphone created for the need of many people. This is what I've been
searching for.
SGS III, your just simply the best! =)
Rating:
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Reviewed by Merv from England on 15th Aug 2012
Hi I have had 3GS. For quite a while and got quite concerned by how.
Many people said I tried to get you and you were out of service . So
I went to all the networks and got new sim cards from them all ever
one was worse than my current network . So I took the plunge and bought
Samsung s3. I can't. Quite make my mind up it works I make calls and
receive them if you set driving mode it even talks to you quite novel
. Emails okay still finding my way around battery lasting all day with
quite a lot left at the end of the day . I can,t fault Samsung. I was
thinking of holding out for next iPhone but I have my reservations on
that. Sony involvement ? I feel the Samsung. Is as good as you can expect
from a smart phone untill. Doctor Spock. Says beam me up. Only reason.
I don,t give 5 * is because I am an apple geek the transformation. To
android. Is confusing but interesting
Interesting had customer in my car same network no reception. And I
had reception interesting
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Reviewed by Ron from UK on 13th Aug 2012
I opted to upgrade to this and was confident I'd made the right choice,
I've never used Samsung before but had heard good things. Sadly I returned
it, I just couldn't get on with the design of this phone, or the saturated
colours on the screen. To me this is a seriously ugly phone which is
also too big for comfort. Performance seemed good however, although
signal left a lot to be desired. If the design and screen aren't a problem
for you then the phone should be an excellent choice. The camera on
this is seriously good, that was one major plus at least.
Rating:
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Reply by Jon from England on 16th
Aug 2012
There are four settings for the screen which can take away the colour
saturation if that is your problem. The size is not a problem for me,
and the screen is way better than the iPhone, and a lot of my friend
have one of them and agree.
Reply by Ryan from uk on 29th Sep
2012
I cant believe some people are moaning about things that given some
investigation can be adjusted at the touch of a button.
Reply by Ron from UK on 11th Oct 2012
I don't like any of the settings, and I don't like the size.
Reviewed by eva from england on 12th Aug 2012
Had my GS3 for 2 weeks now and I love it. Very easy to use. The only
problem so far Is that I can't see the screen at all in bright sunlight.
This made answering phone calls impossible.
Rating:
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Reply by Tony from England on 2nd
Sep 2012
The is a setting for using the phone out side in the sunlight
Reviewed by Raymond from Scotland on 6th Aug 2012
Had my GS3 for a week now and I can honestly say, having tried the main
rivals, this is the best phone on the market without question. The screen
is incredible, the processor lightning-fast and, although at first it
seems quite large, you get used to the increased size very quickly.
I have only managed to go through a fraction of the things this phone
can do, but it seems to do everything with a smoothness that belies
it's dimensions.
In fact, the GS3 isn't a phone...it's a beautifully crafted, cutting
edge piece of engineering excellence!
Go get one!!!
Rating:
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Reviewed by rob from uk on 6th Aug 2012
its a great phone but be warned the screen breaks easy. mine fell and
the screen shattered cost of new samsung screen of ebay was 154 pounds
i know you shouldnt let them fall but its a cert at some stage yours
will get knocks no matter how careful you are. i had the galaxy 2 and
it fell i few times and never shattered. screen looks like glass so
very easy broke. i was lucky enough to be able to replace my screen
just followed a great video on youtube. it has made the phone very expensive
having to shell out another 154 for new screen. i had the htc one x
and its screen was much clearer than the galaxy 3 but does have flexing
and screen shiver thats why i got rid of the htc. if htc ever sort out
there screen issues i would ditch samsung right away as the htc is in
many whys better. dont get me wrong the samsung is a great phone but
just isnt as good as you would expect, and folks be warned dont let
your galaxy 3 fall or you could be out a few pounds
Rating:
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Reviewed by gary from england on 5th Aug 2012
bought it to replace my iphone 4s
kept it 5 days then got rid it was slow kept re-booting
gon back to my iphone 4s
Rating: Reply
Reply by Jon from England on 13th
Oct 2012
You never had one,so stop pretending.....
Reviewed by Mark from England on 3rd Aug 2012
Sorry to say i am not sold by the S3, i find it not easy to text of
and feels cheap in my hand and was sat with my friend on Sunday when
it drop his from knee height from sitting down and the whole screen
shattered maybe a fault that follows the i phone 4...The htc seem to
be better build quailty i just think its all down to your own personal
choice compared which is totally better its what is going to suit you
more
Rating:
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Reply by rob from uk on 6th Aug 2012
mine fell and the screen also shattered looks like its made of hard
glass so easy broke. i bought a screen of ebay for 154 and followed
a youtube video and replaced it my self not to difficult to do but you
need to be careful
Reviewed by Garry Morgan from U.K. on 30th Jul
2012
Had this phone for a week now after owning g a HTC Desire for two years.
If you're used to the Android system the phone doesn't seem so amazing
at first. However with use you become amazed with the sheer speed of
the processor. One of my apps took minutes to lock onto satellites.
With this phone it locks in seconds... the huge screen makes such a
difference and video playback is just stunning. You will never go back
to a smaller screen.
The battery is another plus. I'm getting two days use from a full charge
after taking time to fully charge and recharge the battery a few times
to establish a healthy battery memory. Don't like the phone though.
After the HTC it is clumsy as you have to hit several buttons to make
calls from some kf the screens. Which is the only quibble I have with
this phone. Also, because of the huge internal memory I ha e been able
to add an amazing number of apps which is very welcome after the restricted
memory of the HTC.
The camera is just awesome. It's that quick I still find myself checking
it took the shot. No waiting around with this phone and the quality
is stupendous.
All in all a very impressive phone made even better with additional
memory.
Rating:
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Reply by David from dca860@ntlworld.com on
22nd Sep 2012
GPS lock is nothing whatsoever to do with the processor power. It is
to do with the quality of th received and more to the point, the availability
of passing satellites at the moment you decide to switch it on!
Reply by Ryan from uk on 29th Sep
2012
From one HTC desire owner to another,and for the same amount of time,
i cant wait to get this phone. I totally agree with the memory and battery
problems of the HTC, been so close to throwing up against the wall.!
Shame because i like the other features. I have lots of friends who
have this s3 and they have not had any problems. I would of thought
that being a guy with a bunch of bananas for hands i would get on with
the large lay out, will have to see! I will def have to write my own
review very soon
Reviewed by janette from United Kingdon on 29th
Jul 2012
This phone is great only two problems which are annoying the battery
needs charging everyday.. and the other is that if i turn all notifications
off then i dont receive text messages notification. how can i not have
all night the phone alerting me of emails. etc when all i want it to
do is notify my of a text otherwise its a marvelous phone oh and one
other note what is the best resolution for the camera when putting pictures
through email via the phone as previously they wont go says it it too
big.
thanks
Rating:
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Reply by aw from uk on 31st Jul 2012
To fix the email alerts go into your email settings go to ringtone notification
and select silent
Reviewed by Mark from uk on 23rd Jul 2012
I've had this phone for a few weeks but unfortunatelt i sold it, i found
the screen way too sensitive, i did't like the tint to the screen personally
i think the htc one x and iphone 4s have a much better screen.I didnt
find the speaker quality to be that great, after filming at a local
gig whilst the picture quality is good the sound is completely trashed
and distorted whilst on the iphone 4 its absolutely perfect, maybe someone
can explaint to me why that would be. lastly i drop the phone a number
of times as its very light and slippery. On the plus side it is super
quick
Rating:
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Reviewed by Robert from Australia on 18th Jul
2012
I really do love this phone...I've had it for one month and it really
shines above the last 2 Galaxy S I have owned....well...except for one
problem....it has been at the authorised repair centre for just on 1x
week now and they still have not fixed the microphone problem that has
been reported by many of my fellow owners. I called Samsung and after
2x days am still waiting for a call back to replace the phone...I know
why they haven't called me back...that is because I am sure all the
phones are likely to have this same problem (soon or into the near future)
and they are struggling to find a fix...I joked to my wife that I should
threaten them with jumping ship to apple (lol) just kidding! (lol) but
seriously this is a huge drama...It really is an excellent phone! but
an excellent phone with a HUGE problem...so how many stars can i offer?
ummmm....in the meantime i am using a Nokia 6200 (in its day a superb
phone)...however it is not a "young" phone anymore and it sounds as
good as my S3 is bad (lol) i am lost and really don't know how long
before i will get it back...so i have given 2 stars....otherwise it
would be a HUGE 10 stars! mmmmm you are right...didn't make me feel
any better...a generous 2 stars.........
Rating:
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Reviewed by david mcdermott from uk on 17th Jul
2012
no waffle just pure facts this phone is top of the pops.
Eat my shorts i phone luvvers with 2 year contracts LMFAO
Rating:
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Reviewed by Hilary from United Kingdom on 12th
Jul 2012
This phone is easy to use, has a better battery life than my HTC Desire
and lots of useful features. However, the screen on my S3 is very dim
when I browse the internet, despite turning up brightness to full and
turning off power saving option. I can hardly see Facebook and all internet
screens are far too dim. When I press the home button the screen jumps
to a brighter (correct) screen for a split second, but does not maintain
this. Also, the charging indicator light only works intermitently, which
is very annoying - yes, I have got that option enabled! In theory, a
great phone, but with all these problems I'm very disappointed indeed.
it's going back to the shop.
Rating: Reply
Reply by Fraser from Scotland on 23rd
Jul 2012
Hilary regarding browser screen dimming. Mine did same, was bright when
you navigate but then immediately dimmed so could hardly see screen.
Solution for me was when in the browser on a webpage press menu and
go to “brightness and colours“ ,untick the automatic brightness
box, then just set slider to your preferred level. This should hopefully
sort it. Cheers
Reviewed by Fred from UK on 8th Jul 2012
I used quite few Android OS mobile phones in the past. Samsung Galaxy
S3 is taking Android OS to the next stage.
Amazing device, super fast, screen quality outstanding, battery life
superb.
Well Done Samsung!
Rating:
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Reviewed by bmc from UK on 5th Jul 2012
S3 user for 3 weeks now, had the HTC Sensation and HTC Desire before
this.Super phone and does all the gadgety things well. Compared to the
Sensation I do miss the beauty of the HTC Sense and on using the S3
as a phone the sense feels better to operate eg on the S3 you press
the phone button the phone is ready to call but the call log doe not
automatically display, you have to press another button. Also when you
dial the number of some one who you dial often, the S3 does not automatically
bring up the last person that you have dialed. The HTC software I thought
was more polished, however the S3 has speed on it side.....so fast...
I just get a full days use from 7.30am to 9.30pm and carry a spare battery
with me! Don't know how others can get a day and a half of usage with
their S3!
I would have chosen the HTC X one as I am used to their kits, but the
lack of a SD card slot and changable battery meant that I had to give
the S3 a shot.
Love the videos when you can see all videos playing together.Camera
is super sharp and video I must admit I would have perferred a dedicated
camera shutter button than to press the screen..
Overall happy to change across from the HTC camp to Samsung.
Rating:
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Reviewed by Pete Wyatt from United Kingdom on
3rd Jul 2012
The iphone has had it's day. The Galaxy 3 rocks in all departments,
well done Samsung.
Rating:
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Reply by clive from uk on 18th Jul
2012
Of course it has. No one will ever buy a single iphone again! It all
depends what you want a phone to do Pete. If you want a tech phone for
someone who's cant be bothered to spend a month learning the os then
you can't beat an iphone. If you need to launch a few space ships while
on the move and like having to spend half your life downloading patches
etc to sync a phone to you pc then android wins everytime. :-)
Reviewed by GA from UK on 2nd Jul 2012
Had the phone for over a week now and moderately pleased. It's very
fast, good looking and in some ways a good upgrade from the S2 - I don't
find it evolutionary but it does have incremental improvements. A lot
of the selling points were a bit gimicky and probably in all realism
wont be used extensively. One very disappointing element is the call
quality - it drops calls left and right consistently - around 8-9 times
over a 40 minute car ride (same journey maybe 1 drop on my S2). What
good is the Svoice and stay awake function if I can't make calls consistently.
It also needs an extended battery asap - I make 24 hours just with moderate
use. Not as good as my S2 with extended battery by far. I'd also say
it's probably a little too big to be comfortable in the hand although
the large screen is a bonus for internet. Functionality it doesnt seem
as polished as the S2 with minor niggles on apps etc, hope that will
be solved in software update. Overall I feel alittle let down and the
call issue means I will probably have to replace the phone (with what
is the hard part).
Rating:
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Reviewed by Adie T from UK on 1st Jul 2012
Waited for the S3 rather than plum for the HTC One X. Ten days and its
going back as earphones won't plug in (tried three pairs, same result).
Not an uncommon problem it seems and the 3 store was quick to offer
a replacement. Given the millions spent on R&D and then marketing I
must say I'm disappointed to have a simple hardware problem.
Now the good stuff. Super fast , great display (size was a concern but
it fits in the pocket, is thin and lighter), battery life is better
than my last HTC Desire (day and a half to 2 days use), the SD slot
which can take a 64gb card (take note HTC etc), camera's superb (no
quality issues on mine) and it looks awesome in pebble blue.
So, rated 3/5 (good) because for a £500 phone you'd expect the hardware
to work out of the box.
Rating:
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Reviewed by Peter K from Ireland on 25th Jun 2012
A really excellent phone, full of all the features and functionality
anyone could want. Absolutely lovely to use, brilliant screen, fast
fast processor. But .... the camera on mine produces very disappointing
images, usually suffering from camera lens flare, excessive white haze,
and unattractive images.
First of all I blamed the phone which produces markedly poorer images
than my olf Galaxy S2. But after an update of the S2 to the latest ICS
Android version, the S2 now produces equally 'flared' images. So there's
a suspicion that the software may be the issue not the camera.
Mine is going back to Samsung tomorrow for investigation.
Rating:
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Reply by john from uk on 27th Jun
2012
my camera is first class excellent images you must have a faulty one.
thats one thing about the s3 its camera is as good as the s2 if not
better
Reply by Dave from Australia on 27th
Jun 2012
Have the same problem with my S3 , had the HTC ONE X for about a month
before i got S3 and while I do prefer the S3 over the ONE X I miss the
screen and the camera of the ONE X. What i do not understand is all
the reviews that rate the S3 camera over the ONE X , I have both phones
and can not take a photo on the S3 that is as good let alone better
than what I can get with the ONE X.
Reviewed by Mr Ed. from New Zealand on 23rd Jun
2012
Upgraded from the S2 to the S3 wow!!! What a wonderful piece of technology.Everything
about the S3 is great.Go Samsung Go..
Rating:
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Reviewed by william from uk on 23rd Jun 2012
great phone, if you have used the htc one x you will clearly see the
one x has the better screen. the s3 screen is great but not as good
thats where the s3 falls down havin said that its still a good phone,
battery life is good just depends how you use it, samsung cut corners
with the screen Super AMOLED plus would have been much better, S Voice
is just a gimmick doesnt work very well, i sold my htc one x and bought
the s3 and to be honest the one x is just as good if you look at the
screen then the one x is the better phone there both very fast phones
and you would be happy with either,
Rating:
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Reviewed by Hairymuffin from UK on 23rd Jun 2012
Been using this phone for a couple of weeks now. Here's what I found:
Pros:
Lightning quick interface
Internet browsing is superquick
Luscious, super sharp screen with wide viewing angle(at least when not
in direct sunlight)
Expandable memory so you're not limited to the phones capacity
Battery life is better than expected (moderate use only need to charge
once every 2 days)
Great camera with a very high intensity flash
Ice Cream Sandwich which is a huge improvement over previous Android
versions
Cons:
Home button is a bit unresponsive and doesn't feel very tactile
Power button is located in daft position on right hand side (I frequently
press by accident when holding the phone in landscape)
Certain unrefined apps seem to cause slight lag
Screen becomes unviewable even in moderate sunlight
Not really any apps available to really take advantage of all that processing
power
A bit too big, like carrying a mini tablet around
S-Voice is gimmicky as it doesn't work very well
All in all very satisfied and a definite upgrade from my old 3GS. For
ease of use and intuitiveness, iOS has always been unbeatable, but with
the new version of Android (ICS), usuability has improved massively.
If you like to customise your phone's interface (like I do), Android
is the only way to go.
Rating:
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Reviewed by Abu Yusef from UK on 22nd Jun 2012
Initially had the HTC One X (see my review for that !) but after a month
exchanged it for SGS3. Comparing the 2 phones i will say i ever so slightly
prefer the HTC's screen, build and htc sense over touch wiz.As a complete
package though the SGS3 ,in my opinion, is by far the better phone.
The reception/GPS is far superior. The browser seems more fluid, it
has a louder speaker,battery life is slightly better and the HTC seemed
to have a few little bugs where as the SGS3 has none (to my knowledge!)
When you sign up for a dreaded 2 year contract you have to make sure
that really like your phone and that you will be happy with it for 2
years. Without a shadow of a doubt the SGS3 is the best phone ive ever
had and definatly made the right decision swapping the One X for this.
Rating:
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Reviewed by Stephen from Cyprus on 22nd Jun 2012
I just got this phone after having Iphone 4 / HTC Sensation XE...its
by far the best smartphone i have ever used!!! It is as smart as it
gets!
Rating:
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Reviewed by trevor from n ireland on 22nd Jun
2012
had my s 3 for a few weeks now, and have to say its faultless , samsung
have created something amazing ,naturally everyone will compare with
an i phone , but in reality its no competition , the s 3 is light years
ahead , buy this phone
Rating:
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Reviewed by Michael G from UK on 21st Jun 2012
Had the phone a week and a half so far and can't find a single thing
to moan about... Been an Android user since the Desire, then owned the
Sensation and now the GS3.
By far the best phone I've owned, lightning quick and with a great screen
(I've had colleagues and friends comment how the display looks like
a photo plastered to a demo handset!).
The battery is a vast improvement over previous smartphones I've owned.
I haven't had a single minute of "battery anxiety" with the Samsung
and can easily make a day and half before I get to about 10-15% remaining!
I was torn between this, the HTC One X (which I've heard is a close
runner to this) and the iPhone 4S... In the end the 4S is long overdue
an update due to the relatively small screen so I decided against it...
I chose the GS3 mainly due to the SD card slot, removable battery and
the larger battery (I doubt anyone buying one would be dissapointed
with it though)..
All in all I can only recommend the GS3 as the most impressive phone
I've ever owned, what are you waiting for?
Rating:
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Reviewed by David Whidden from fordingbridge on
20th Jun 2012
Nice, had this phone a week now, beats the s2 bye a mile, dont get me
wrong the s2 is a good mobile but the s3 is top class,the battery lasts
me easy 2 days with loads of use,like the larger screen due to ageing
eye sight!Warning if you are thinking of rooting be carefull,i did and
all worked ok but the phone had a mind of its own so had to bet back
to a stock rom, nightmare. one thing to be a bit picky with is i need
to use 2 hands to use, this mainly due to the rounded sides but overall
i think its the best smartphone on the market today
Rating:
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Reviewed by Mark F from London, England on 17th
Jun 2012
I bought this phone from the O2 store in Watford this afternoon but
unfortunately its going back tomorrow. I upgraded from a Galaxy S, but
for some reason the new phone will not import my contacts. Its fine
until you try to import them, but as soon as you do an error screen
comes up saying "Unfortunately Touchwiz home has stopped" - I've been
onto the O2 gurus and performed about 15 factory resets but nothing
has worked. Maybe I just have a bad phone - I'll keep you posted
Rating: Reply
Reply by Mark from London on 18th
Jun 2012
Following on from my last post I received a full refund from O2 on the
phone. Maybe mine was just the odd faulty one that happens every so
often, unfortunately its made me think twice about going for the S3
in the near future. Its a shame because it looked like it could have
been really good if I'd been able to get it to function properly.
Reply by john from scotland on 18th
Jun 2012
so you gave it 1 star because of a minor software problem?
Reply by David from UK on 25th Jun
2012
What a nonsense review! Either you had a unlucky phone (so change it!)
or you haven't imported contacts properly as if you had a synchronised
gmail account (as most android users have), as soon as you log in, it
downloads them all. Try reading a manual before trashing a top bit of
kit.
Reviewed by Dave from Ireland on 17th Jun 2012
Great phone, had this about 2 weeks now replacing my Iphone 3gs. Not
sure of all the features yet but so far it's fantastic. Bit on the large
size but much easier to see the internet and still fits in the pocket
ok. Battery life lasts about two days with average use so not bad. Camera
is excellent also.
Rating:
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Reviewed by Ianj from UK on 15th Jun 2012
I looked at the G3 in three phone shops and on the face if it, it seems
a nice piece of kit. However, the speaker sounds tinny and thin when
playing music and the cheap plastic back is not helped by the silver
band around the edges being fake metal, it's plastic too.
Although I rather fancy a change from my iphone 4s to Android, in terms
of operation smoothness, quality materials in manufacture the iphone
is still a quality piece of kit. For me, regretably, the G3 has some
great points but they dont't make up for the cheap looking finish. Samsung
need to do better ia the price range the G3 is in. In quality of materials
and finish the Galaxy does not come close to the iphone.
Rating:
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Reviewed by Chris J from UK on 13th Jun 2012
I've had the S3 just over a week now. Upgraded from an HTC Desire. I
absolutely love it! The battery easily lasts two days of normal usage.
Slick interface. Good camera. And it's a lot better looking in real
life than in photos.
Rating:
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Reviewed by nico from uk on 9th Jun 2012
the best way to sum up the galaxy s3 is to say what
a hammer blow for the mobile market this is.i went from the s2
to this phone having managed not to fall for the nexus which
was pointless and the htc one x which by all accounts is brilliant.
but the s3 is way way better,the battery life is the best ive seen.im
still trying to work out how they have managed to pack
all this brilliance into a very thin body, remarkable.
i would wage a bet that most employees for apple have one of these
in their back pocket but are scared to bring it out for fear of
the sack.
Rating:
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Reviewed by Luke from UK on 8th Jun 2012
Great phone but have had to take it back for a replacement as the screen
had black blobs on it when it was displaying dark colours! Also the
battery life is very poor so take a charger with you at all times!
Rating:
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Reply by trevor from n ireland on
15th Jun 2012
battery life is excellent , day and half before charging , and used
all apps and net
Reviewed by Joe from UK on 7th Jun 2012
One word amazing, have had the Original Galaxy S and S2 and the S3 wipes
the floor with both of them. Its lighting fast and has no lag whatsoever.
The screen is super bright and colours and videos are eye catching and
stand out! The screen transitions are so smooth and it is definitely
the Phone for 2012. Samsung have done a brilliant job with the S3 and
it feels top quality in every way, if you're thinking of getting one
you won't be sorry!
Rating:
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Reviewed by peter from uk on 7th Jun 2012
I tried this in a shop. I feels fast but was surprised to see that browsing
the internet doesn't feel as smooth as any of the windows phones out
there. I have the Lumia 710. It is also overcomplicated for the average
user. Probably just great for the computer geek. I think it's a great
device but was surprised that my £200 mobile appears to run faster certain
things.
Rating:
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Reply by mo from enland on 9th Jun
2012
writing a review on the basis of trying in shop????
Reviewed by Tony from UK on 2nd Jun 2012
I took the S3 out with Orange a day after release! Battery life is amazing,
I can get two days out of it with heavy use as I can not put it away!
I have always been an iPhone guy all the way from the first iPhone.
Apple just wont be able to complete with this. S Voice works so much
better than Siri too. I had the HTC One X just before I got the S3 and
once again the S3 kills it. I found that the HTC kept overheating and
the battery life was really bad. I would defiantly recommend this phone.
Rating:
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Reply by john from uk on 17th Jun
2012
i use it heavy and i mean heavy and it doesnt make it through the whole
day.
Reviewed by Fred from UK on 2nd Jun 2012
Got the white one on launch day after been told I would have to wait
if I wanted the blue one. That said the white is lovely.
I have always had iphones upgrading every time fom the iphone 3 through
to the 4s and although the iphone is an awesome phone I felt they were
falling behind in features.
(Although jailbreaking helped).
The S3 is superb it is taking me a bit of time to get used to the way
it does things differently but it is worth the effort I am on a unlimited
3UK data plan use about 35gb a month,using the phone to connect to these
with its hotspot wi-fi tethering (it is superb just turn it on and forget
about it unlike the iphone which I had to connect by bluetooth as wi-fi
would disconnct after a while.
So guys in short I am really pleased and am sure as I get the hang of
it this will turn out to be a good choice to go android
Rating:
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Reviewed by John B from Ireland on 1st Jun 2012
Ok, up to April I had the 4S, then in May I sold my 4S and bought the
HTC One X then today I upgraded to the Galaxy S3.
Both the HTC one x and the S3 are miles ahead of the 4S so its not fair
to make comparisons on the three however the one x and S3 are both beautiful
devices that I give 5 stars each. Besides all the similar features these
phones share is that the one x feels more solid and quality and the
S3 has a richer screen and a few more gimmicks. Both are truly beautiful
devices.
The S3 in white feels really comfortable in the hand and has beautiful
curves, behind the scenes lies the powerhouse quad processors that makes
this device lightening fast. Its pact with gimmicks and features and
the S voice is every bit as good as siri. Truly a great device and worth
splashing the cash on.
I could never go back to the small screen of the 4S after the release
of the latest technology from HTC and Samsung.
Rating:
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Reviewed by Jack from London on 7th May 2012
Went and saw this phone and it is just incredible. I feel that smartphones
have advanced so much over the past two years that it can be very duanting
choosing a phone nowadays. If your looking for a upgrade in the future.
This is the phone to get for its amazing performance. However, if you
currently have a good smartphone. For example I have the s2 model. I
dont see a reason in buying this phone as the technology wont be pushed
to its full potential until late into 2013.
Regards this. The screen is very large. People who have previously had
blackberries or iPhones will have a problem getting used to the sheer
size of the face but its razor thickness means you can fit it in your
pocket. The battery on this device is incredible but it needs to be,
to compensate for that mighty quad-core processor along with ICS and
all the connectivity options make this phone liquid like in graphics
and multitasking.
Rating:
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