Samsung is gearing up to launch a new version of the Galaxy S21 FE. Identified by the model number SM-G990B2, we first heard about the existence of this device last week. Today, it has appeared on Google’s Play Services support list, confirming a rumor (via). The new model will support 5G cellular connectivity.
The refreshed Galaxy S21 FE is said to downgrade to a mid-range processor from Qualcomm. We are talking about the Snapdragon 720G chipset, vs. the Snapdragon 888 or Exynos 2100 found on the existing model. Since the Snapdragon 720G doesn’t come with an integrated 5G modem, speculations arose that the upcoming phone may be limited to 4G (LTE) connectivity.
But there were still rumors of it supporting 5G. It appears those were true. The Google Play database has the SM-G990B2 listed as the Galaxy S21 FE 5G. Note that the existing version bears the model number SM-G990B.
This listing makes for another interesting takeaway, though. The upcoming model differs from the original Galaxy S21 FE launched in January this year in terms of the processor only. The rest of the specs remain unchanged, including 5G connectivity. The screen, cameras, battery, and memory configurations are the same.
Samsung is seemingly looking to make the Galaxy S21 FE cheaper so it can attract more buyers. It will be interesting to see how low the company can go. The original model found it tough to move off the shelves at $700. The Korean firm will have to undercut the $600-priced Pixel 6 if it wants to offer better value than the Google phone.
There may not be a Galaxy S22 FE this year
The upcoming Galaxy S21 FE model may be the last member of Samsung’s short-lived FE (Fan Edition) lineup. Rumors are that the company won’t launch a Galaxy S22 FE and won’t revive the lineup in the years to come either. It is shelving the project because the so-called affordable flagships don’t fit in its smartphone portfolio. Samsung couldn’t find a sweet spot for the devices both in terms of pricing and launch schedule.
If the rumors are true, the FE project would come to end just two years of launch. The Galaxy S20 FE that arrived in September 2020 was the first member of this lineup. But regardless of whether there will be a Galaxy S22 FE this year, a new Galaxy S21 FE is certainly coming. It could go official in the coming weeks or months. We will keep you updated with all the latest information about the device.
2022-06-21 15:05:19