Samsung announces its Xcover durable smartphone

KOREAN POWERHOUSE Samsung has announced its Xcover smartphone, an Android handset that's waterproof to a depth of one metre.

Also known as the GT-S5690, the Xcover is the smartphone for users who need that extra bit of durability. The phone will run Android 2.3 Gingerbread. Samsung warns that the phone can survive underwater for only a maximum of 30 minutes.

Simon Stanford, managing director of mobile at Samsung said, "We've designed the Samsung Galaxy Xcover especially for those consumers who need all the functionalities of a smartphone that can stand up to demanding lifestyles. By combining the best of our social features together with a strong, airtight chassis makes this smartphone resistant to dust and water damage without compromising on the design."

Powered by an 800MHz processor, the Xcover will sport a 3.65in touchscreen. Samsung said it will have 150MB of memory plus 2GB of storage that can be expanded using a microSD slot.

The Xcover will feature a mid-level 3MP rear facing camera and it will also have WiFi, Bluetooth and microUSB connectivity. Samsung said the smartphone will have a tempered glass display that is up to five times stronger than normal glass.

The Xcover will be 11.95mm thick, weigh 135g and host a 1500mAh battery. Samsung confirmed that the phone will be available in the UK later this year. µ