Samsung’s very own voice assistant system named Bixby seems ready for prime time action. Launched earlier as part of the S8 and S8+ package, the software feature, however, lacked its voice capability.
It is this that has been remedied via a software update, which though is available only in the United States as of now. Bixby so far was available in its entirety only in the Korean language in South Korea. Users there will still have the option to download the English version if they so like. There is no word though when it is going to be launched in other countries.
Meanwhile, with the new found capability, Bixby now comes across as a complete package, chipping in with tasks which include even reading out your email or text messages. Those, of course, are in addition to the more mundane tasks it has been capable of already, like reminding you of any upcoming events and such. It can even identify objects from images, which shows the advanced image recognition features that it comes with.
Another extremely likeable feature of Bixby is its ability to manipulate even third-party apps. Those include making changes to the setting of supported apps or influence other features. For instance, you can simply ask Bixby to change the destination on Google Maps, something that even Google Assistant isn’t capable of at the moment.
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Samsung said its Bixby voice assistant has already dealt with over 4 million voice commands by the more than 100,000 users that have so far been part of the beta test program. All of that has endowed the assistant with valuable information on how to respond to user’s commands. Or better still; develop a better understanding of what users actually want.
Samsung also stated the deep learning technologies that have gone into the making of Bixby should further allow it to have a good idea of the user’s preference, a way of functioning, talking style and such as the feature is put to more use. As things stand at the moment, Bixby is already able to cater to user’s queries even if the same is put through using different phrases or words.
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Also, as with competing for voice assistants such as Cortana, Alexa, Google or Siri, it is Hi Bixby that you need to speak to your device to gain its attention. That is already a crowded segment, which means one has to be really spot on in its functioning to remain in the reckoning. Bixby will also be required to be unleashed in more regions worldwide given that the others, except for Alexa, is already a pan world phenomenon. Let’s just hope that happens soon enough.
Quick Recap
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- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
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- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
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- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
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