Samsung officially took the wraps off the Galaxy Alpha. It’s a 720p screened android device. It’s got a mix of high and mid end specs but with a design and finish that is meant to look cool.

From a personal point of view I don’t dislike the Alpha. It is one of a few android phones that will be able to be used one handed that comes with some decent specs. However it faces a big problem.

Samsung clearly released this to combat the iPhone. The problem is there is only one new iPhone a year. Only Apple manufacture an iOS phone. So if you want an iPhone there is only one place to buy it from. That strengthens the Apple brand. This creates a little exclusivity.

However, if you want a phone powered by android your choice is endless. Samsung not only is doing battle with Apple but with android manufacturers from both the low, mid and high end. So on paper when we look at the specs of the Alpha we all can list at least 10 phones that come with better specifications. Question is do the specs make it a better offering than the Alpha? And will Samsung’s relentless marketing be strong and effective to quash competition?

Only time will tell, but I don’t think the Alpha will be a dead duck, quite the opposite in fact selling more than anticipated. Why? It’s a strong well known and trusted brand by the average person, it’s not too excessive in size and it looks good.

However, iPhone fans will respond by saying that the year old 5S can still out gun the new Alpha. And they would be right. And we must not forget that Sony will be launching their Sony Xperia Z3 Compact as another iPhone competitor. Samsung won’t have an easy ride. And let’s not forget the new iPhone is not even announced yet!

So do you agree?