New and improved functionality.

Samsung hosted select media and analysts for an exclusive preview of its latest smartphone, the Galaxy Note 7 with an improved S Pen, enhanced Air Command functionality and increased security.

The Galaxy Note 7 has a water resistant body and metal finish S Pen (IP68) with security that combines Samsung Knox with biometric authentication including a new iris scanning feature. It also has HDR video streaming capabilities.

Samsung corporate vice president, Philip Newtown commented, “We are very excited to be able to make the Galaxy Note7 available to Australians at the same time as it goes on sale globally – on August 19.”

“Samsung continues to listen to its customers and we refine our smartphones – both the hardware and software – so that we deliver a product that meets the demands of today’s consumers. From the refined user interface, water and dust resistance, and the iris scanner for secure and convenient access to confidential information, we believe the Galaxy Note7 is going to incredibly popular in Australia.

“We have introduced the iris scanner with the Galaxy Note7, which adds another level of security to this smartphone. Every iris is unique and this new biometric feature makes it very quick and convenient to secure your smartphone,” he said.

Samsung Galaxy Note 7 lifestyle

Users can take advantage of the S Pen without unlocking the screen by using Screen off Memo and simply pinning the memo to the Always On Display. Create and share GIF animations with Smart Select, and new Air Command functions, including Magnify and Translate to zoom in on the screen or convert languages by simply hovering.

In addition to fingerprint scanning, the Galaxy Note 7 is equipped with new iris recognition technology that can be used to unlock the home screen and securely access Samsung Pay. The smartphone also has a Secure Folder, a separate folder for added security to keep private and personal information safe.

Pair the Galaxy Note 7 with the new Gear VR powered by Oculus and experience virtual reality, it also supports the new Gear 360 camera, with full 3840×1920 resolution, so users can capture and share their own 360-degree videos on the go.

The smartphone also features the powerful Edge Panel for one-tap user access to applications, news and functions such as their contacts, calendar or selfie camera.

A new line of accessories will be available to complement the Galaxy Note 7, including the new S View Standing Cover, a light and portable cover that can be used to prop the device at a 60-degree angle for easy viewing of content, as well as an IP68 water resistant Backpack for on-the-go charging.

Users can monitor their fitness activities on the Gear Fit2 or Gear IconX and track their data through S Health 5.0. All health information is encrypted and protected with Samsung Knox.

The Smart Switch feature has been enhanced further with Samsung Cloud, which supports a seamless device experience by providing continuous backup and easy transfer of content including data, apps, settings and layouts between devices.