Samsung Galaxy XCover 4s

The Samsung Galaxy XCover 4s, a rugged smartphone designed for durability and performance, is currently available in Qatar for approximately 1100 QAR. This price may vary slightly depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions.

Specifications

Feature	Specification
Display	5.0″ PLS TFT LCD
Resolution	1280 x 720 pixels (HD+)
Processor	Exynos 7885 Octa-core (2×1.6 GHz & 6×1.6 GHz)
RAM	3GB
Storage	32GB (expandable up to 512GB)
Main Camera	16MP, f/1.7 aperture
Front Camera	5MP, f/2.2 aperture
Battery	2800mAh (removable)
Operating System	Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 11
Durability	IP68 water and dust resistant, MIL-STD-810G certified
Dimensions	146.2 x 73.3 x 9.7 mm
Weight	172 grams

 

The Samsung Galaxy XCover 4s was released in July 2019 as an upgrade to the popular XCover 4 model. This rugged smartphone is designed to withstand harsh conditions, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, construction workers, and anyone who needs a durable device.

Display and Design

The Galaxy XCover 4s features a compact 5.0-inch PLS TFT LCD display with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels (HD+). While this may not be the highest resolution available in the market, it provides a good balance between clarity and power efficiency. The screen is designed to be easily readable in bright sunlight, which is crucial for outdoor use.

The phone’s rugged design is one of its standout features. It’s IP68 certified, meaning it’s dust-proof and can survive being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. Additionally, it meets the MIL-STD-810G standard, which means it can withstand extreme temperatures, humidity, and drops.

Performance and Storage

Under the hood, the XCover 4s is powered by an Exynos 7885 octa-core processor. This chip features two high-performance cores clocked at 1.6 GHz and six efficiency cores also at 1.6 GHz. Paired with 3GB of RAM, it provides smooth performance for most everyday tasks and can handle light multitasking.The device comes with 32GB of internal storage, which is expandable up to 512GB via a microSD card. This allows users to store plenty of photos, videos, and apps without worrying about running out of space.

Camera Capabilities

For a rugged phone, the XCover 4s offers surprisingly good camera capabilities. The main rear camera is a 16MP sensor with an f/1.7 aperture, which performs well in various lighting conditions. It can capture detailed photos and is particularly good in low-light situations thanks to its wide aperture.The front-facing camera is a 5MP sensor with an f/2.2 aperture. While not as impressive as the rear camera, it’s suitable for video calls and occasional selfies. Both cameras can record 1080p video at 30 frames per second.

Battery Life and Charging

The Galaxy XCover 4s comes with a 2800mAh removable battery. While this capacity might seem small compared to some modern smartphones, it’s important to remember that the device has a smaller, lower-resolution screen which doesn’t drain as much power. The removable battery is a significant advantage for users who need to swap out batteries during long workdays or extended outdoor adventures.

Software and Special Features

The XCover 4s originally shipped with Android 9.0 Pie but is upgradable to Android 11. It runs Samsung’s One UI, which offers a clean and intuitive user interface. The phone also includes some special features designed for its target audience:

1. Glove Mode: The touchscreen can be used while wearing gloves, which is useful for workers in cold environments or those who need to wear protective gear.
2. Programmable XCover Key: There’s a customizable button on the side of the phone that can be set to launch specific apps or functions, such as the flashlight or camera.
3. Push-to-Talk: The device supports push-to-talk functionality, making it useful for team communication in work environments.

Connectivity and Sensors

The Galaxy XCover 4s supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 5.0, and NFC. It also includes a range of sensors such as an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass. The inclusion of NFC means the phone can be used for contactless payments, which is convenient for everyday use.

Comparison with other Models in the series

To understand how the Galaxy XCover 4s fits into Samsung’s rugged phone lineup, let’s compare it with its predecessor, the Galaxy XCover 4, and its successor, the Galaxy XCover 5.

The Galaxy XCover 4, released in 2017, featured a similar 5-inch HD display but came with a less powerful Exynos 7570 quad-core processor and only 2GB of RAM. It had a 13MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera. The XCover 4s improved upon this with its octa-core processor, increased RAM, and better main camera, while maintaining the same rugged design principles.

The Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro, launched in 2020, offers significant upgrades over the XCover 4s. It features a larger 6.3-inch Full HD+ display, a more powerful Exynos 9611 processor, and improved camera capabilities with a dual rear camera setup (25MP main + 8MP ultra-wide). The XCover Pro also boasts 4GB of RAM, 64GB of internal storage, and a larger 4050mAh removable battery. It maintains the rugged design with IP68 and MIL-STD-810G certifications and introduces new features like a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and two programmable buttons. The XCover Pro is also part of the Enterprise Edition, ensuring 4 years of software.

The Galaxy XCover 5, released in 2021, brought further improvements to the series. It features a slightly larger 5.3-inch display, an Exynos 850 octa-core processor, and 4GB of RAM. The main camera remained at 16MP, but the front camera was upgraded to 5MP. The battery capacity was increased to 3000mAh, and the phone shipped with Android 11 out of the box.

The Samsung Galaxy XCover Pro 6, released in 2022, represents a further evolution of the XCover series. It features a larger 6.6-inch Full HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a more powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G processor, and an improved camera system with a 50MP main sensor and 8MP ultra-wide lens. The XCover Pro 6 comes with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, offering better performance and multitasking capabilities. It maintains the rugged design with IP68 and MIL-STD-810H certifications, and features a 4050mAh removable battery. The device also supports 5G connectivity, providing faster data speeds compared to its predecessors

Who Should Consider the Galaxy XCover 4s?

The Samsung Galaxy XCover 4s is an excellent choice for several types of users in Qatar:

1. Outdoor Enthusiasts: If you enjoy hiking, camping, or other outdoor activities, the XCover 4s’s rugged design and water resistance make it a reliable companion.
2. Construction Workers: The phone’s durability and glove mode feature are perfect for those working in construction or similar industries.
3. Field Technicians: The customizable XCover key and push-to-talk functionality can be invaluable for technicians who need quick access to specific tools or communication channels.
4. Travelers: For those exploring Qatar’s diverse landscapes, from the bustling streets of Doha to the desert dunes, the XCover 4s offers peace of mind with its robust build.
5. Accident-Prone Users: If you have a history of dropping or damaging phones, the XCover 4s’s military-grade durability could save you money on repairs in the long run.

Performance in Qatar’s Climate

Qatar’s hot and humid climate can be challenging for electronic devices, but the Galaxy XCover 4s is well-equipped to handle these conditions. Its MIL-STD-810G certification means it can withstand extreme temperatures, which is particularly useful during Qatar’s scorching summers.

The phone’s IP68 rating also protects it from sand and dust, which are common in Qatar’s desert environment. This makes the XCover 4s an ideal choice for those working or spending leisure time in the country’s outdoor areas.

Value for Money in the Qatari Market

At around 1100 QAR, the Galaxy XCover 4s offers good value for money in the Qatari market, especially considering its durability features. While there are cheaper smartphones available, few can match the XCover 4s in terms of ruggedness and reliability.

For businesses in Qatar looking to equip their workforce with durable devices, the XCover 4s presents a cost-effective solution. Its ability to withstand harsh conditions can potentially reduce the need for frequent replacements, leading to long-term savings.

Availability and Support in Qatar

The Samsung Galaxy XCover 4s is widely available in Qatar through various electronics retailers and mobile phone shops. Samsung has a strong presence in the country, which means users can expect good after-sales support and easy access to repairs if needed.

Many retailers in Qatar offer warranty options for the XCover 4s, which can provide additional peace of mind for buyers. It’s worth checking with individual stores for their specific warranty terms and any additional protection plans they might offer.

Tips for Buying the Galaxy XCover 4s in Qatar

1. Compare Prices: Check prices at different retailers in Qatar. Some may offer better deals or bundle the phone with accessories.
2. Check for Promotions: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales or promotions that might lower the price of the XCover 4s.
3. Verify Warranty: Ensure that you’re buying from an authorized retailer to get the full manufacturer’s warranty.
4. Consider Your Needs: While the XCover 4s is a great rugged phone, make sure its specifications meet your specific requirements before purchasing.
5. Look for Bundles: Some retailers might offer the XCover 4s with useful accessories like rugged cases or screen protectors.