Samsung is gearing up to compete against the Chinese smartphone giants like Xiaomi and OPPO in the mid to low-end segment.

According to a report by TheElec, Samsung, one of the largest smartphone companies globally thanks to its industry-leading flagship devices, is looking to strengthen its position by introducing the waterproofing function to its mid and low-end smartphone models, starting next year.

The decision comes as a twofold solution, helping Samsung increase the appeal of their mid to low range smartphones as well as simplifying the production process of the smartphone’s back cover, reducing cost.

Samsung Galaxy A33 5G
Samsung Galaxy A33 5G

Currently, Samsung provides the waterproof feature exclusively in their flagships like the Galaxy S21 and some high-mid range offerings. According to the report, the upcoming Samsung Galaxy A33, which is rumored to launch in January next year, will be the first phone under this initiative to receive the waterproof feature. It is too early to say if the phone will feature the same IP68 rating that the Galaxy S21 is equipped with.

For those unaware, IP, or Ingress Protection, is a universally accepted measurement of varying degrees for dust and liquid resistance. Devices backed by an international standard rating of IP68 are deemed fit enough to withstand dust, dirt, and sand, and are resistant to submersion up to a maximum depth of 1.5m underwater for up to thirty minutes.

On the other hand, Samsung also decided to simplify the production process for the rear cover of smartphones next year, changing the number of injections and coatings from 2 to 1. Injection refers to the process of molding the plastics, and coating is a technique for applying color to the surface of a product using spray paint. An industry official stated, “Reducing the number of injections and coating will significantly reduce the production cost.”

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