Samsung starts S5 previews

Samsung Electronics has launched a Galaxy S5 preview campaign as the company tries to build early momentum ahead of the release on April 11.

The first preview events, which allow consumers to try out the 5.1-inch device, were in the United States and Switzerland yesterday and are scheduled for Korea, the United Kingdom, China, Brazil, Germany and 54 other countries, the company said.

About 1,400 shops, including the company’s Samsung Experience Stores, mobile carrier outlets and retailers like Best Buy, will host events.

In Korea, 45 retail outlets such as Samsung Digital Plaza and mobile carrier shops will begin previews today.

“We decided to hold these preview events as there are many consumers saying they want to experience the Galaxy S5, Samsung Gear 2 and Samsung Gear Fit as soon as possible,” said Lee Young-hee, head of global marketing for Samsung Electronics’ mobile communications business.

The Gear 2 smartwatch and Gear Fit wristband that were unveiled with the Galaxy S5 during the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona are also available at the preview events.

On Thursday, Samsung set the price of the S5 in Taiwan at 806,000 won ($746) for the 16 gigabyte model and 840,000 won for the 32 gigabyte version, 10 percent less than the S4.

Apple’s 32 gigabyte iPhone 5S was priced at 946,000 won in Korea, while LG Electronics’ G Pro 2, released last month, is 999,900 won.

Lee Min-hee, an analyst at IM Investment Securities, said in a report yesterday that the lower S5 prices anticipate intense price competition in coming months. He expects Samsung will meet industry expectations of 5 million units sold per month.

BY MOON GWANG-LIP [joe@joongang.co.kr]