Samsung and Intertec Group unveiled the Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge in Qatar, two of the tech giant’s first smartphones with dust proof and water resistant features.

"The Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge will be available in Qatar from March 14," Samsung Gulf Electronics’ mobile division Information Technology head Tarek Sabbagh told Gulf Times on the sidelines of the launch.

The 5.1-inch S7 is pegged at QR2,499 while the 5.5-inch S7 edge will cost QR2,799. Both handsets feature dual pixel camera (12 megapixels) that deliver high quality images even in low light conditions.

“The S7, which offers cutting edge technology, is the outcome of feedback from consumers,” Sabbagh stressed. There are rubber seals for the USB port, SIM tray and headset jack of the phones to protect them from dust and water immersion for up to 30 minutes in 1.5m depth.

Having a brighter lens with wider aperture, bigger pixel, faster shutter speed, and a more accurate auto focus, the S7’s rear and front cameras can produce clear and sharper images even in low light conditions. The front camera can use the screen as a flash to give more light, especially when taking selfies in the dark.

Samsung added a ‘motion panorama’ camera mode which brings movement to traditional panoramic photos, giving the user a completely immersive visual experience.

Battery life has been improved by 41% either when calling, texting, browsing online or watching videos, according to Sabbagh. Both the S7 and S7 Edge feature fast wired and wireless charging technology.

“Within the first 30 minutes on putting the phone from zero, it can reach to above 60%,” he added.

The S7 also uses liquid-cooling technology that prevents the battery from overheating particularly when playing games or using the phone longer.

For more storage, users can insert microSD card for up to 200GB to the handset’s hybrid SIM card tray. In some countries, the tray can be used with a dual SIM card.

Sabbagh said using Samsung’s high-speed microSD will not affect the phone’s speed and performance.

“Class-leading camera technology, a longer -lasting battery, cutting edge processors and optimisation for gaming are some features will make these the most innovative smartphones you’ve ever owned,” he noted.

One of the devices’ unique feature include the ‘Always-On Display’ which gives users a simplified, zero touch experience designed to prevent missing important calls or notifications.