Samsung has a longstanding habit of releasing multiple variations of their devices. They seem to try to hit every conceivable screen size and price point to ensure that they have something available for every different buyer. The Galaxy S4 Active, S4 Lite, Galaxy Mega, etc. are all examples of this.
Now it looks like it’s the Galaxy Note’s turn. According to a new rumor from SamMobile, a new device called the Galaxy Note 3 Lite (model number SM-N7505) will be announced at Mobile World Congress in late February with availability a few weeks later. No word yet on launch countries or expected price, though the rumor does say it will launch in black and white initially.
The rumor also mentions that Samsung appears to be testing the device in two screen sizes, 5.49 and 5.7 inches, which is the same as the original Galaxy Note 3. So the Lite version could also have a slightly smaller screen.
Not much else is known regarding expected specs for the Galaxy Note 3 Lite, but we can make some educated guesses. If the Lite is indeed intended to be a cheaper version of the Galaxy Note 3, then cost cutting measures will probably mean a lesser camera and a cheaper, possibly lower resolution screen. Samsung has also previously used slower processors in their Lite devices, so that’s possible here, too.
Given that Samsung has reserved the Galaxy Note name for only their S-Pen stylus enabled devices, the Galaxy Note 3 Lite will likely also include the special touch panel and S-Pen. The pen features of the Galaxy Note line are quite popular with consumers around the world, so a cheaper option could be a big hit, especially in countries where phones aren’t purchased with lengthy contracts.
The original Galaxy Note 3 is very expensive at nearly $700 unlocked, contract-free (and as high as $900 at Best Buy). In markets without the 2-year contract scheme, that makes it unattainable for many people. A version that cuts the high quality camera and screen but still includes the Galaxy Note’s stylus would probably sell very well, and it’s easy to see why Samsung would create this device.
Samsung’s non-flagship devices often take a very long time to arrive in North America, if ever, so buyers in the US shouldn’t get excited about a cheaper Galaxy Note 3 yet. The rest of the world might get the chance to pick up the Galaxy Note 3 Lite in just a few months if the rumors are true.
Does a Galaxy Note 3 Lite sound appealing to you? Will you be picking one up if the price is right?