Running on the latest One UI 8.5, these devices introduce “Awesome Intelligence” which is a suite of AI-powered tools previously reserved for flagship models. The tools are designed to simplify productivity, photo editing, and search.

With a focus on longevity, Samsung is promising up to six generations of OS upgrades and six years of security support.

The new A-series leverages AI to streamline daily workflows. A standout addition is Voice Transcription within the Voice Recorder app, which can now transcribe and translate meetings or turn voicemails into text.

Productivity is further enhanced by AI Select, accessible via the Edge Panel, which allows users to extract text or images directly from the screen and move them into Samsung Notes or the Photo Editor using a drag-and-drop interface. Additionally, the popular Circle to Search with Google now supports multi-object recognition, allowing users to identify multiple items within a single image simultaneously.

Both the Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G feature a versatile triple-camera system led by a 50MP main sensor. Supported by an improved Image Signal Processor (ISP), the hardware delivers sharper details and better colour balance in varied lighting. Samsung’s Nightography has also been refined, reducing noise and sharpening details in low-light environments.

In terms of styling, the Galaxy A57 5G features a refined, slimmer design while improving sustained performance through a 13% larger vapor chamber to manage heat during gaming or intensive recording sessions.

It is equipped with a bright Super AMOLED+ display with Vision Booster technology for better outdoor visibility. Both devices house a 5000mAh battery capable of up to two days of use, and with Super-Fast Charging 2.0, users can reach a 60% charge in approximately 30 minutes.

The phones also carry an IP68 rating, providing high-level water and dust resistance for real-world durability.

Security remains a pillar of the A-series experience. For the first time in this segment, Samsung is emphasising Knox Vault, a hardware-based, tamper-resistant solution that protects sensitive data. New features include Private Album for locking away personal media and Privacy Alerts, which proactively notify users of potential risks regarding location permissions or suspicious data monitoring.

The Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G are available in several colour ways, including Awesome Navy, Grey, Lavender, and Dark Green.

Launch promotions include bundle savings on the Galaxy Fit3 and Galaxy Buds Core when purchased from Samsung stores, Incredible Connection, or Takealot. Owners can also opt for Samsung Care+ for comprehensive device protection.

From just metal, Samsung has moved to metal and glass, which has the effect of offering both premium looks as well as the durability of something like Gorilla Glass. Normally reserved for high-end flagships, Samsung has decided to trickle down the design to the Galaxy A series. In its stead, the rumored Galaxy C series will be the one to tout the all-metal design of the previous generation.

Samsung has been focusing a great deal on smartphone cameras lately, and that effort has born fruit in the Galaxy S7. Of course, mid-range devices like the Galaxy A line can only dream of that, but it isn’t that far behind. All three, from the lowest A3 all the way up to the A7 have 13 megapixel rear cameras gifted with the same large f/1.9 aperture. The Galaxy A5 and A7 add optical image stabilization on top of that to deliver more than decent shots and videos.

The 2016 Galaxy A series has so far been available only in select markets in Asia and Europe, even fourth months after it’s launch. Samsung confirmed to having the devices on SA soil earlier this week, at an undisclosed recommended price. 

Samsung’s dabbled in creating dedicated spaces for SA shoppers a few times, but unlike arch-rival Apple, hasn’t built up any long-standing retail presence. That’s not the case in other regions, though, and in late 2013 Samsung decided it was high time to set up a bunch of shops across South Africa to call its own.

Thursday will see another two of these “Samsung Experience” stores open their doors in the SA. The shops, which are located in Durban and Cape Town, play host to all things Samsung, from washing machines to wearables, in the familiar try-before-you-buy type setting. We’re going to check out the Durban store on Thursday, but if you’re close to one, head inside to get an early look at the new GS6 and A range before they launch next week Friday.

• Pavillion Shopping Centre, Durban – Jack Martens Drive, Westville
• Somerset Mall, Cape Town – Centenary Drive, Intersection of N2 & R44, Somerset West

The Galaxy A5 priced at R6499 is the five-inch model, with a 720p Super AMOLED display and a 1.2GHz processor — it’s a relatively middleweight specification but it’s probably what ensures Samsung were able to squeeze down the dimensions. Meanwhile, the Galaxy A3 which will set you back R4999 has a 4.5-inch qHD Super AMOLED screen, and the same processor. The camera here dips down to a 8-megapixel model, but you’ll still get the full 5MP whack of the front-facing camera. Both devices are set to officially launch in either Pearl White, Midnight Black and Champagne Gold this weekend, whilst your local Samsung experience stores and authorised retailers already carry stock.