This Super-Cheap Samsung Phone Will Get Updates To Android 19

Samsung has launched a “new” affordable phone with support for 5G networks. It is the Samsung Galaxy A06 5G, a device that is actually a twin in terms of tech specs of the Galaxy F06 5G. However, since Galaxy F devices have limited regional availability, the Galaxy A06 5G is likely to be the model we will see in stores in most key markets globally.

Samsung introduced the Galaxy A06 5G first in India, just as it did with the Galaxy F06 5G. It is not unusual for brands to launch practically identical affordable or mid-range devices in the same market under a different name. Firms like Realme or Redmi often do the same practice, “rebranding” very similar phones under different series.

Samsung Galaxy A06 5G: Fast connectivity for the masses

It’s noteworthy that there is already a Samsung Galaxy A06 4G. The South Korean giant announced it in August 2024. This model in question is the basis for both the Galaxy A06 5G and the aforementioned Galaxy F06 5G. However, the A06 5G is powered by Mediatek’s Dimensity 6300 SoC. This enables support for 12 5G bands: 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 26, 28, 40, 41, 66, 77, and 78. The chip is assisted by up to 6GB of RAM, with the option to enable an additional 6GB of “virtual” RAM. There is also up to 128GB of onboard storage.

The Galaxy A06 5G is built around a 6.7-inch HD+ (720 x 1600 px) PLS LCD display. A notch instead of a punch hole for the front camera denotes its affordable nature. The display supports 90Hz to offer a smoother user experience. There’s also a new fingerprint reader embedded in the “Power” button.

One UI 7 out of the box, before the Galaxy S24

While millions of Galaxy S24 flagship series users are still waiting for the Android 15-based One UI 7 update, the affordable Galaxy A06 5G runs it out of the box. Still, you won’t find all the features available on premium models. However, it’s interesting that Samsung mentions that the device runs One UI 7. Its predecessor, the Galaxy A06 5G, arrived with One UI 5.1 “Core,” a limited version of the custom skin. Later, the firm removed the “Core” moniker with the One UI 6.1 update, so now its affordable devices should have fewer OS limitations.

Moving on to the software, the Galaxy A06 5G will enjoy four major Android OS updates. For reference, the Galaxy A06 4G is only guaranteed two years of software updates. The smartphone has a simple rear dual-camera system. You’ll find a 50MP main sensor (f/1.8 aperture) and a 2MP depth sensor for better portraits. There’s also an 8MP front camera (f/2.0 aperture) for selfies and video calling. A 5,000mAh battery with support for 25W wired charging keeps the lights on.

Other features include a 3.5mm audio jack, dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), and a MicroSD port. The phone weighs 191 grams, is 8 mm thick, and has an IP54 rating.

Price and variants

The 4GB/128GB variant is available in India for ₹10,500 (~$121) while the 6GB/128GB costs ₹11,500 (~$133). It will likely reach more markets in the coming weeks.