The Samsung Galaxy S7 edge, a device that captivated the mobile world with its sleek design, powerful performance, and innovative curved display, remains a significant milestone in smartphone history. Understanding its initial pricing is crucial for appreciating its value proposition and its impact on the market. So, let’s delve into the details of how much this iconic phone cost when it first hit the shelves.
Unveiling The Original Price Tags
The Samsung Galaxy S7 edge was officially unveiled at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona in February 2016. Following the announcement, pre-orders commenced, and the phone became widely available in March 2016. The pricing varied slightly depending on the region, carrier, and storage configuration. However, we can establish a general range for the initial cost.
In the United States, the unlocked version of the Samsung Galaxy S7 edge with 32GB of storage typically retailed for around $799.99. This price point positioned it as a premium flagship device, competing directly with other high-end smartphones like the Apple iPhone 6s Plus. Carrier-locked versions, often subsidized with a contract, could be found for lower upfront costs, but these came with monthly payment plans.
In Europe, the price was generally around €799 for the 32GB model. This again reflected its status as a top-tier smartphone designed to offer a premium user experience.
In the UK, the Galaxy S7 edge launched at a price of approximately £639 for the 32GB version.
It’s important to remember that these were the starting prices for the base models. Prices could fluctuate based on retailer promotions, special offers, and bundled packages.
Storage Options And Price Variations
While the 32GB model was the most commonly advertised, some regions offered the Galaxy S7 edge with larger storage capacities, such as 64GB. These versions naturally commanded a higher price. The price difference between the 32GB and 64GB models could be anywhere from $50 to $100, depending on the retailer and the region. However, the 64GB model was not as widely available as the 32GB version.
The Impact Of Carrier Subsidies
Carrier subsidies played a significant role in how consumers acquired the Galaxy S7 edge. In many markets, carriers offered the phone at a significantly reduced upfront cost, often around $200-$300, in exchange for a two-year contract. This model made the phone more accessible to a wider range of consumers, even though the total cost of ownership, including the monthly service fees, would eventually exceed the outright purchase price.
These carrier deals often included additional incentives, such as data plans, free accessories, or early upgrade options. The specific terms and conditions of these deals varied widely depending on the carrier.
Key Features Justifying The Price Tag
The Galaxy S7 edge wasn’t just about a curved screen; it was a powerhouse of features that justified its premium price point. Let’s look at some of the key aspects.
Display And Design
The curved display was undoubtedly the S7 edge’s most distinctive feature. The 5.5-inch Quad HD Super AMOLED display offered vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent viewing angles. The curves weren’t just for aesthetics; they also provided additional functionality, such as quick access to favorite contacts, apps, and news feeds.
The phone’s design was a blend of glass and metal, creating a sleek and premium feel. It was also IP68 certified for water and dust resistance, adding to its durability and appeal.
Performance And Specifications
Under the hood, the Galaxy S7 edge packed a punch. Depending on the region, it was powered by either a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor or a Samsung Exynos 8890 processor, both of which delivered excellent performance. Paired with 4GB of RAM, the phone could handle demanding tasks, such as gaming and video editing, with ease.
The camera was another standout feature. The 12MP rear camera with its bright f/1.7 aperture and Dual Pixel autofocus technology produced stunning photos and videos, even in low-light conditions.
The phone also included a microSD card slot for expandable storage, a feature that was highly appreciated by users who wanted to store large amounts of media.
Software And User Experience
The Galaxy S7 edge launched with Android 6.0 Marshmallow, with Samsung’s TouchWiz UI layered on top. While TouchWiz had been criticized in the past for being bloated, Samsung had made significant improvements, making it more streamlined and user-friendly.
The phone also included a variety of software features, such as Always On Display, which allowed users to see the time, date, and notifications without waking up the phone.
Comparing The S7 Edge Price To Competitors
Understanding the S7 edge’s price context requires comparing it to its rivals at the time.
Apple IPhone 6s Plus
The Apple iPhone 6s Plus was the S7 edge’s main competitor. The 6s Plus, with its 5.5-inch display and premium build quality, started at $749 for the 16GB model, $849 for the 64GB model, and $949 for the 128GB model. The S7 edge’s price of $799 for 32GB put it in direct competition with the 64GB iPhone 6s Plus.
Other Android Flagships
Other Android flagships, such as the LG G5 and the HTC 10, were also vying for consumers’ attention. These phones were generally priced slightly lower than the S7 edge, but they also lacked some of its standout features, such as the curved display and water resistance. The LG G5, for example, launched around $629 and HTC 10 around $699.
Long-Term Price Trends And Value Proposition
The initial price of the Galaxy S7 edge was just the beginning. Over time, the price inevitably decreased as newer models were released.
Price Drops Over Time
Within a year of its launch, the price of the Galaxy S7 edge had dropped significantly. Retailers and carriers offered discounts and promotions to clear out inventory as the Galaxy S8 was launched. By 2017, it was possible to find the S7 edge for around $400-$500, depending on the condition and the retailer.
Refurbished And Used Market
The used and refurbished market provided even more affordable options. A used Galaxy S7 edge in good condition could be purchased for as little as $200-$300, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.
Is It Still Worth It?
While the Galaxy S7 edge is no longer a flagship device, it can still be a viable option for some users. Its key strengths remain its display, camera, and water resistance. However, its aging processor and software may not be suitable for demanding tasks or users who require the latest features.
The Legacy Of The Galaxy S7 Edge
The Samsung Galaxy S7 edge was more than just a smartphone; it was a statement. Its curved display, premium design, and powerful performance set a new standard for the industry. The S7 edge helped to solidify Samsung’s position as a leader in the smartphone market and paved the way for future innovations.
Its influence can still be seen in modern smartphones, with many manufacturers adopting similar design elements and features. The S7 edge’s success demonstrated that consumers were willing to pay a premium for a device that offered a unique and compelling user experience. The phone also pushed the boundaries of what was possible in terms of mobile technology, inspiring further innovation and development.
What Was The Initial Launch Price Of The Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge?
The Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge was launched in March 2016 with a starting price of approximately $790 USD. This price was for the unlocked version of the phone with 32GB of internal storage. Carrier prices varied, often including options for payment plans that amortized the cost over a 24 or 30-month period, making the upfront financial commitment seem smaller.
Keep in mind that this was the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP). Prices could fluctuate based on retailer discounts, promotional offers, and carrier subsidies. Furthermore, depending on the market and local taxes, the actual price paid by consumers might have been higher or lower than the base $790 USD figure.
How Did Carrier Pricing Impact The Cost Of The Galaxy S7 Edge?
Carriers played a significant role in determining the final cost for many consumers. They offered various installment plans and contracts that often reduced the upfront cost in exchange for a monthly service agreement. These plans could be appealing for customers who preferred to spread out the cost of the device over a longer period.
While these installment plans made the phone more accessible, it’s important to remember that the total cost paid over the contract’s lifetime could potentially exceed the unlocked phone’s MSRP. Additionally, certain carriers might offer exclusive deals or bundles that further influenced the overall cost for their subscribers.
Did The Storage Capacity Affect The Launch Price Of The S7 Edge?
Yes, the storage capacity directly impacted the launch price of the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge. The base model came with 32GB of internal storage, and models with larger storage capacities, such as 64GB, commanded a higher price at launch. The price difference reflected the cost of the additional memory chips and associated manufacturing processes.
Though the 64GB version was less readily available in all markets, its presence offered users more storage space for apps, photos, videos, and other data without relying heavily on microSD card expansion. Therefore, the consumer’s choice of storage option affected the overall expenditure at the time of purchase.
How Did The Galaxy S7 Edge Compare In Price To Its Competitors At Launch?
At launch, the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge was positioned in the premium smartphone segment, making it competitive with other flagship devices of the time, such as the iPhone 6s Plus and the LG G5. Its price was generally comparable to these competitors, reflecting its advanced features, including the curved display, high-end camera, and water resistance.
While some manufacturers offered slightly more affordable options, the S7 Edge held its own due to its unique design and comprehensive feature set. The ultimate choice often came down to brand loyalty, preferred operating system, and specific feature requirements of the individual consumer.
Were There Any Discounts Or Promotions Available At Launch To Reduce The Cost?
Yes, various discounts and promotions were available from both Samsung and carriers at the launch of the Galaxy S7 Edge. These promotions often included trade-in offers, where customers could receive credit for their old smartphones towards the purchase of a new S7 Edge. Additionally, some retailers offered bundled deals that included accessories like cases, screen protectors, or wireless chargers.
Carriers also played a key role in providing discounts, often through limited-time promotions or specific eligibility requirements (e.g., signing up for a new plan). These promotions could significantly reduce the upfront cost of the device, making it more accessible to a wider range of consumers. Savvy shoppers would often compare offers from different retailers and carriers to find the best possible deal.
How Has The Price Of A Used Or Refurbished Galaxy S7 Edge Changed Over Time?
The price of used and refurbished Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge phones has significantly decreased since its launch in 2016. The value of these devices depreciates over time due to advancements in smartphone technology and the introduction of newer models. Consequently, used or refurbished S7 Edge units can now be found at substantially lower prices compared to the original launch price.
Factors influencing the current price include the phone’s condition, storage capacity, whether it’s unlocked or carrier-locked, and the seller’s reputation. Consumers looking for a budget-friendly smartphone can often find good deals on used or refurbished S7 Edge models, but it’s important to carefully inspect the device’s condition and ensure its functionality before making a purchase.
What Factors Contributed To The Galaxy S7 Edge’s Launch Price?
Several factors contributed to the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge’s premium launch price. The curved edge display was a relatively new and sophisticated technology at the time, adding to the manufacturing cost. Furthermore, the phone incorporated high-end components, including a powerful processor, a top-tier camera system, and water resistance, all of which contributed to its overall cost.
Samsung’s brand recognition and marketing efforts also played a role in setting the price. As a leading smartphone manufacturer, Samsung had the ability to command a premium price for its flagship devices. The cost also reflected the investment in research and development required to produce such an advanced and feature-rich smartphone.