Just last week Samsung announced the dual mode LTE variants of both the Galaxy S4 and the Galaxy S4 mini. The latter has stopped by the FCC to get its radio approved, a customary process before the device can be sold to customers. It remains to be seen in which particular markets the dual mode LTE variants are launched. No information is available as yet regarding the pricing and availability of both smartphones. The FCC filing indicates that this model, GT-I9197, is for Optus, an Australian carrier.
Two types of LTE standards are largely found in various parts of the world, TDD-LTE and FDD-LTE. These two Samsung devices are actually the first commercial devices that are capable of seamlessly shifting between both LTE standards, so users have uninterrupted voice and data communications wherever they might be. FDD-LTE standard is the most common around the globe, whereas TDD-LTE is expected to see increased adoption in certain parts of the world such as the U.S., China, Middle East, Australian as well as Northern and Eastern Europe. The launch is usually imminent once a device hits the FCC, so these devices could begin shipping in the very near future. [Image via Sammobile]
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