Samsung Electronic’s newly launched Galaxy S4 is more susceptible to damage than its previous model Galaxy S3 or Apple’s iPhone 5, a U.S.-based insurance firm claimed.

According to SquareTrade, Galaxy S4 scored seven out of 10 in an extensive durability test, in which 10 is the worst score. Galaxy S3 scored 6.5 and iPhone got five.

The firm said Galaxy S4 performed worse than its predecessor, except in water resistance.

Testers noted the phone’s high breakability during drop tests, and pointed out that its slippery back panel and wide screen would reduce grip. In addition, Galaxy S4’s five-inch screen is more vulnerable to damage because the surface area is bigger.

Despite the phone’s relatively poor durability, SquareTrade forecasted that 1 in every 5 people in the U.S. will buy the Galaxy S4. Out of those people, 1 in 8 will break their new gadget within six months, the company predicted.

Samsung has yet to comment on reviews by SquareTrade.

Last week, Samsung rolled out the latest model of its Galaxy smartphone series, which had been getting mixed responses from tech experts.

The hardware of Galaxy S4 got largely positive reactions, but many reviewers pointed to the problems with its software. Walter Mossberg of the Wall Street Journal called Galaxy S4’s software “gimmicky” and Hayley Takayama of the Washington Post said it was “more hit and miss.”

David Pogue of the New York Times pointed out the lack of innovation, saying that the new phone is “basically an updated Galaxy S3.” He said the Apple may have just called it “Galaxy S3S.”


From news reports
(khnews@heraldcorp.com)