The Galaxy M42 seems to be nearing its commercial debut, with Samsung just obtaining what's likely the final regulatory approval for the mid-ranger's release. Namely, a device bearing model number SM-M426B/DS has been greenlit by the NFC Forum Certification Program earlier this week, with previous reports suggesting we're looking at a rebranded version of the Galaxy A42 5G.
That 5G part is a pretty big deal, however, given how the Galaxy M42 is expected to be priced at under $400. The actual certificate revealed little new info beyond confirming dual-SIM capabilities – which were pretty much a given, anyway. The Galaxy A42 connection does seem to imply the Snapdragon 750 being part of the package, together with 4-8GB of RAM, 128GB of storage space, and a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display.
Can Samsung's mid-rangers get any beefier?
Samsung has been doubling down on 5G smartphones over the course of the last 12 months or so after finding itself strapped for ideas amid a global pandemic. And while it ended 2020 on a high note, the year, on the whole, was a pretty major setback for its mobile efforts relative to how its remaining rivals fared. Sure, even Huawei did well enough compared to LG, but Samsung ended was the second-biggest loser of the year, growth-wise.
Then again, that word doesn't hold the same weight when it comes to one of the world's largest conglomerates. Plus, Samsung really hit the ground running this year with one compelling device after another covering a multitude of price ranges. The Galaxy M42 should help bolster its sales efforts in the Far East, most notably in India, the world's final bastion of gigantic smartphone growth.
