Samsung Galaxy Note 4 Release Date and Specs: More Information on Ultraviolet Sensor Rumors

Jul 20, 2014 08:00 AM EDT

A recent leak sheds new light into the Samsung Galaxy Note 4's ultraviolet (UV) sensor, which is rumored to be the first of its kind.

This sensor advises users on UV levels in the immediate environment, according to information released by SamMobile on Thursday. The report stated that the sensor works by giving UV readings based on a five-level index system -- ranging from low to very high.

In theory, the technology allows users to avoid potential health hazards associated with premature aging, damaged skin, and skin cancer.

Samsung is implementing this UV-detection technology as part of its recent emphasis on health and fitness. The sensor will be integrated into Samsung's S Health app, which was introduced in the 2013 Galaxy S4.

While health-related features are nothing new to the mobile market, the Korean tech giant has certainly led the way. Samsung began by adding the world's first purpose-built heart rate sensor to its Galaxy S5 smartphone. Now, it seems poised to be making yet another big development with its UV sensor.

At this time, there is no confirmation from Samsung regarding the Galaxy Note 4 release date. Back in late June, South Korean site News Tomato claimed that the Galaxy Note 4 was due on Sept. 25. The information reportedly came from an insider, whose identity was not given.

Other tech observers suggest a slightly earlier unveiling date at around IFA 2014, which is scheduled to be held on Sept. 3 in Berlin, Germany.

Samsung Galaxy Note 4 Rumored Specs

Details regarding the Galaxy Note 4 remain sketchy at best. The Galaxy Note 4 may include a QHD display with 2560x1440 pixel resolution that improves image and video clarity. In contrast, the earlier generation Galaxy Note 3 musters 1920x1080 pixel resolution or 1080p, which has become standard on many Android devices.

All that eye-candy certainly demands having a more powerful processor. For faster data speeds, Galaxy Note 4 may be getting the Qualcomm 805 Ultra-HD processor. Quite possibly, the Galaxy Note 4 will have 3GB of RAM, the same as the Galaxy Note 3.

High performance requirements may compel Samsung to use the 64-bit processor instead of the older 32-bit. Samsung's archrival Apple is already using the 64-bit processor in the iPhone 5s. And, the rumored iPhone 6 may come in 64-bit. So, there is no reason why Samsung would not be releasing the Galaxy Note 4 in 64-bit.

It is unclear what camera the Galaxy Note 4 will carry. Many sources say that the Galaxy Note 4 will have a 20-megapixel camera, while others believe that the Galaxy Note 4 will have the same 16-megapixel camera as the Galaxy s5. The device may include an Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) module to make capturing sharper images possible.

Rumored bells and whistles for the Galaxy Note 4 may include the same faux-leather cover and an S Pen stylus included with the Galaxy Note 3. Various rumor mills have said that the Galaxy Note 4 will have the fingerprint sensor and heart rate monitor, just like the Galaxy s5.