The Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge is a powerhouse of a smartphone, boasting a stunning display, blistering performance, and sleek design. However, one feature that is conspicuously absent from this flagship device is a microSD card slot. This omission has left many users scratching their heads, wondering why Samsung would abandon a feature that has been a staple in Android smartphones for years. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons behind Samsung’s decision and explore the implications of a non-expandable storage option.
The Evolution of MicroSD Cards in Samsung Smartphones
To understand the significance of the SD card slot’s absence in the Galaxy S6 Edge, let’s take a step back and examine the history of microSD cards in Samsung smartphones. In the early days of Android, microSD cards were a standard feature in Samsung devices, providing users with a convenient way to expand their storage capacity. The Galaxy S series, in particular, has always been known for its support of microSD cards, with the Galaxy S III, S4, and S5 all featuring a microSD card slot.
However, things took a surprising turn with the release of the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge. Samsung opted to remove the microSD card slot, citing reasons such as design aesthetic and a focus on internal storage. This move was met with widespread criticism from users and critics alike, who saw it as a step backward in terms of storage flexibility.
The Reasons Behind Samsung’s Decision
So, why did Samsung decide to abandon the microSD card slot in the Galaxy S6 Edge? There are several theories, but here are a few possible reasons:
Design Aesthetic
Samsung has always been known for its attention to design, and the Galaxy S6 Edge is no exception. The phone’s sleek, curved body and glass backplate make it a stunning device to behold. One possible reason for the lack of a microSD card slot is that it would have disrupted the phone’s design lines, making it less visually appealing.
Focus on Internal Storage
Another reason Samsung might have opted to remove the microSD card slot is to focus on internal storage. The Galaxy S6 Edge comes in various storage capacities, including 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB. By emphasizing internal storage, Samsung may have been trying to encourage users to purchase higher-capacity models, thereby increasing average revenue per user.
UFS 2.0 and Internal Storage Speed
The Galaxy S6 Edge features a Universal Flash Storage (UFS) 2.0 chip, which provides blazing-fast internal storage speeds. UFS 2.0 is significantly faster than the eMMC 5.0 storage used in older Galaxy devices, making it more suitable for demanding applications like 4K video recording and high-performance gaming. By focusing on internal storage, Samsung may have been trying to showcase the advantages of UFS 2.0 technology.
The Implications of Non-Expandable Storage
The lack of a microSD card slot in the Galaxy S6 Edge has significant implications for users. Here are a few key concerns:
Limited Storage Capacity
With no microSD card slot, users are limited to the internal storage capacity of their device. This can be a problem for users who need to store large files, such as 4K videos, high-resolution photos, or extensive music libraries.
Limited Flexibility
The absence of a microSD card slot also means that users have limited flexibility when it comes to managing their storage needs. They cannot simply swap out a microSD card to free up space or upgrade their storage capacity.
Increased Cost
Finally, the lack of a microSD card slot means that users may need to purchase higher-capacity models or rely on cloud storage services, which can increase costs.
Workarounds and Alternatives
While the lack of a microSD card slot in the Galaxy S6 Edge is a significant drawback, there are some workarounds and alternatives that users can explore:
Cloud Storage Services
Cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive provide users with a convenient way to store and access their files from anywhere. While these services may not offer the same level of flexibility as a microSD card, they can be a viable alternative for users who need to store large files.
OTG USB Drives
OTG (On-The-Go) USB drives are small, portable storage devices that can be connected to the Galaxy S6 Edge using a USB OTG adapter. These drives provide a convenient way to expand storage capacity, although they may not be as seamless as a microSD card.
Wireless Storage Devices
Wireless storage devices like the Samsung Wireless Storage device or the Western Digital My Passport Wireless offer users a convenient way to expand their storage capacity wirelessly. These devices can be connected to the Galaxy S6 Edge using Wi-Fi, providing users with additional storage space.
The Future of MicroSD Cards in Samsung Smartphones
So, what does the future hold for microSD cards in Samsung smartphones? While Samsung has not officially announced any plans to reintroduce the microSD card slot in future devices, there are rumors that the upcoming Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge may feature a hybrid SIM/microSD card tray. This would allow users to use a microSD card to expand their storage capacity, while also providing a SIM card slot.
In conclusion, the absence of a microSD card slot in the Galaxy S6 Edge is a significant drawback for users who value storage flexibility. While there are workarounds and alternatives available, the lack of expandable storage is a notable omission in an otherwise excellent smartphone. As we look to the future, it remains to be seen whether Samsung will reintroduce the microSD card slot in future devices or continue to focus on internal storage. One thing is certain, however – the debate over microSD cards in Samsung smartphones is far from over.
Why did Samsung remove the expandable storage option from the Galaxy S6 Edge?
Samsung removed the expandable storage option from the Galaxy S6 Edge to create a more streamlined and premium device. The company wanted to focus on the internal storage capacity, which starts at 32GB and goes up to 128GB. By removing the microSD card slot, Samsung could make the phone thinner and more durable. Additionally, the company likely wanted to reduce production costs and increase profit margins.
The removal of expandable storage also allowed Samsung to push users towards its cloud storage services. By offering more internal storage options, Samsung encouraged users to store their data and files on the cloud, rather than on a physical microSD card. This move was likely influenced by the growing trend towards cloud storage and the increasing availability of high-speed internet connectivity.
Is the lack of expandable storage a deal-breaker for the Galaxy S6 Edge?
The lack of expandable storage may be a deal-breaker for some users, especially those who rely heavily on microSD cards to store their files and data. For example, photographers or videographers who need to store large files may find the internal storage capacity insufficient. Additionally, users who have a large collection of music, videos, or apps may not have enough space on the internal storage.
However, for many users, the lack of expandable storage may not be a significant issue. The internal storage capacity of the Galaxy S6 Edge is generally sufficient for most users, and the phone’s sleek design and premium features may outweigh the need for expandable storage. Moreover, the phone’s cloud storage capabilities and availability of online storage services can provide an alternative solution for users who need more storage space.
Can I still use cloud storage services with the Galaxy S6 Edge?
Yes, you can still use cloud storage services with the Galaxy S6 Edge. Samsung offers its own cloud storage service, Samsung Cloud, which provides users with 15GB of free storage. You can also use other popular cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive. These services allow you to store your files and data online, which can be accessed from any device with an internet connection.
Using cloud storage services can be an excellent alternative to expandable storage. Cloud storage provides flexibility, convenience, and scalability, allowing you to access your files from anywhere and on any device. You can also upgrade your cloud storage plans as needed, which can be more cost-effective than purchasing a new microSD card.
Are there any workarounds to expand the storage capacity of the Galaxy S6 Edge?
Yes, there are some workarounds to expand the storage capacity of the Galaxy S6 Edge. For example, you can use an OTG (on-the-go) adapter to connect an external storage device, such as a USB drive or a portable hard drive. This allows you to transfer files and data between the external storage device and your phone. You can also use a wireless storage device, such as a portable Wi-Fi hard drive, to expand your storage capacity.
Another workaround is to use a streaming service or a cloud-based app to access your files and data. For example, you can use a music streaming service like Spotify or Apple Music to access your music library without storing it on your phone. You can also use cloud-based apps like Google Docs or Microsoft Office to access and edit your files online.
Will Samsung bring back expandable storage in future devices?
Samsung has not explicitly stated whether it will bring back expandable storage in future devices. However, the company has listened to user feedback and reintroduced the microSD card slot in later devices, such as the Galaxy S7 and S8 series. It’s possible that Samsung may bring back expandable storage in future devices, especially if there is enough demand from users.
In the meantime, users can opt for Samsung devices that do offer expandable storage, such as the Galaxy S7 or S8 series. These devices offer the best of both worlds – premium design and features, along with the flexibility of expandable storage.
How does the lack of expandable storage affect the resale value of the Galaxy S6 Edge?
The lack of expandable storage may affect the resale value of the Galaxy S6 Edge, especially for users who value this feature. The phone’s premium design and features may still attract buyers, but the limited storage capacity may be a drawback for some users. As a result, the resale value of the Galaxy S6 Edge may be lower compared to other Samsung devices that offer expandable storage.
However, the Galaxy S6 Edge is still a high-end device with impressive features, such as its curved screen, powerful processor, and high-quality camera. If you’re looking to sell your Galaxy S6 Edge, you can still get a good price for it, especially if it’s in good condition and has been well-maintained. You can also consider trading it in for a new device or upgrading to a newer Samsung model that offers expandable storage.
What are the alternatives to the Galaxy S6 Edge that offer expandable storage?
If you’re looking for alternatives to the Galaxy S6 Edge that offer expandable storage, there are several options available. For example, you can consider the Samsung Galaxy S7 or S8 series, which offer a microSD card slot for expandable storage. Other Android devices, such as the LG G5 or the HTC 10, also offer expandable storage options.
You can also consider older Samsung devices, such as the Galaxy S5 or Note 4, which offer expandable storage. These devices may not have the same premium features as the Galaxy S6 Edge, but they offer the flexibility of expandable storage. Ultimately, the best alternative will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Be sure to research and compare different options before making a purchase.