Samsung Galaxy S8 and Samsung Galaxy S8+ both officially launch today

Today is the day that many smartphone fans and Samsung couldn't wait for. Today is the day that the Samsung Galaxy S8 and Samsung Galaxy S8+ officially are launched. For smartphone fans, it is the chance to own the uniquely designed handset. For Samsung, it is a chance for redemption following the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 fiasco last year. Samsung wants to prove that it can build an ambitious handset without having it turn into a torch.

Four markets are receiving the Galaxy S8 and the Galaxy S8+ today. They are the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and Korea. More markets will be receiving the new devices over the next few weeks.

The Samsung Galaxy S8 carries a Gorilla Glass 5 protected 5.8-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution as high as 1440 x 2960. The default setting on the screen is 1080 x 2220 (FHD). Users can change the resolution to the higher resolution if they are using the phone for VR play. Depending on the region the handset is being purchased from, it will have the Snapdragon 835 chipset, or the Exynos 8895 SoC inside. Both chips carry an octa-core processor. 4GB of RAM is inside, along with 64GB of native storage. For those seeking additional memory, a 256GB capacity microSD slot is available. The 12MP camera on back features an aperture of f/1.7 and includes OIS. The front-facing 8MP camera shoots selfies in wide angle.

The fingerprint scanner is located right on back, right next to the 12MP camera lens. That has led some to worry that they might smudge the camera lens why trying to find biometric reader. AR assistant Bixby is not fully ready for prime time as its voice capabilities are not yet ready to be deployed. A 3000mAh battery keeps the hamster wheel spinning, and there is a quick charge feature. Android 7.0 is pre-installed.

The Galaxy S8+ is equipped with the same exact specs except for a larger 6.2-inch display, and a larger capacity 3500mAh battery. Both phones are available in the four aforementioned markets starting today. Check with your carrier, or big box stores like Best Buy to see if any promotions are running. Starting today and running through April 27th, you can lease two Galaxy S8 models for the price of one from Sprint.