Samsung Galaxy S21 Fan Edition (FE) rumours

The Samsung S21 Fan Edition (FE) is the next version of its hugely popular Galaxy S20 Fan Edition. It’s a true S21 in every respect with just a few subtle nips and tucks to bring it under A$1000.

When we reviewed the S20 FE in October 2020 (here 9.7/10), it was as if the gods had listened and cast down a phone that was really what those premium buyers wanted. We said that it was the best S20 for the price. The Samsung Galaxy S21 Fan Edition (FE) is to repeat that success.

All we have are rumours, so consider this the article that makes you think twice about buying an S21, 21+ or S21 Ultra. The catch – you will have to wait until at least September 2021 to get it.

Model number SM-G990B (spotted in test reports)
Screen: 6.4 or 6.5” 2400×1800, 20:9, SUPER AMOLED, 120Hz adaptive refresh. HDR10+. It is a flat screen with a centre o-hole selfie
Processor: Likely the Samsung Exynos 2100
Ram: Likely 6/128GB (no word on microSD)
Size: 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9mm (9.3mm at the camera bump)
Build: Gorilla Glass front, frosted Glastic back, metal frame/sides. Five colour options
Camera: Likely a 64MP telephoto (binned to 16MP), 12MP main and 12MP ultrawide and 32MP (binned to 8MP)
Battery: 4500mAh and 25W charger
Android 11 and update to at least Android 13
Price: expect that magic $999 mark

These specs are not much different from the S20 FE apart from some tech update, which is fine. A lot of components are borrowed from other models, which helps make the most rampant shortages.

What Samsung offers is one of the best all-around Galaxy S21 experiences without the extra price for things that are not all of us use. And it’s wise not to call it a ‘Lite’ – FE sound so much better.

Would I wait? I gave my daughter an S20 FE and she is rapt. As a long term Samsung user the Galaxy S series just priced itself out of her budget. So unless you need the 100X zoom or some other specific S21 features this is a great product.

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