Samsung Galaxy Note 9 Reviews

Samsung Galaxy Note 9

The Galaxy Note line has established a reputation for being the bleeding-edge phone in Samsung's lineup. It was the first to offer a big screen — before phablets became in vogue. It was the first with multiwindow software for running two apps side by side. And it was the first to do a curved edge screen.

Samsung Galaxy Note 9

The new Galaxy Note 9 (starting at $999) packs some firsts of its own, including an S Pen that doubles as a remote control. But after spending some a few days with Samsung's new flagship, most of the key highlights this time around feel more like refinements of a great phablet than bold steps forward.

Note 9

What's new with the Note 9?

• S Pen is a remote control: The stylus now has Bluetooth connectivity, so you can use it for taking selfies, giving presentations, skipping music tracks and more.
• Huge battery: The 4,000 mAh battery is the biggest ever in a Samsung handset, which is a big step up from the Note 8 and its 3,300 mAh power pack. However, our testing has produced only marginal improvements so far.
• AI camera: The dual camera on the Note 9 can automatically recognize more than 20 different types of scenes (food, plants, etc.) and adjust the settings to get the best shot.
• DeX without the dock. You only need an adapter and an HDMI cable to turn the Note 9 into a mini PC rather than a $69 accessory. The phone doubles as a touchpad.
• Water cooled. The Note 9 uses a water carbon fiber cooling system to prevent overheating and deliver sustained high performance, though our testing didn't yield impressive results.

Samsung Galaxy Note 9

Pricing and availability:

As of Aug. 24, the Galaxy Note 9 is available to buy in-store and online.

It starts at a fairly steep $999 for the 6GB model with 128GB of storage. AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, U.S. Cellular, Verizon Wireless and Xfinity carry the device.

You can also get it through Amazon, Best Buy, Costco, Sam’s Club, Straight Talk Wireless, Target and Walmart, as well as Samsung.com.

The 512GB Galaxy Note 9 costs $1,249 and is sold at select retail locations and online via AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, U.S. Cellular and Samsung.com.