For the past few years we have been waiting for a functional Android camera, something that we deem to be “unavoidable”, so we were very glad to see Samsung launch its Galaxy Camera at IFA in Berlin in September. One of the previous attempt was released by Polaroid at CES 2012, however the design was far from being good enough, and much needed to be improved (design, performance, optics, Android version…).

Since we got our hands on the Samsung Galaxy camera last month (during the official US launch in NYC), we knew it was the first successful integration of Android in a compact camera.

We’ve taken the camera for a spin, and after using it for about one week, here is our complete review of the Samsung Galaxy Camera in which we try to draw a picture of how good it is as a camera, and what benefits Android brings to the table.

The AT&T model with HSPA+ retails for $499 or $599 while the Verizon model with 4G LTE costs $599 ( both prices do not include the monthly data plan). The review unit we tested was powered by AT&T.

Technical highlights

• Lens: 23 mm wide angle lens, aperture F2.8 / F5.9, 21X long Zoom
• Display: 4.8” HD (1280 x 720) Super Clear LCD
• Sensor: 16 MP BSI CMOS (unknown size)
• Flash: Number 5 Xenon Flash
• Wireless Connectivity: AT&T 4G HSDPA CAT 14/ HSUPA CAT 6 // Verizon 4G LTE – Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0
• Connectors: HDMI out, micro USB
• OS: Android 4.1 Jelly Bean
• Processor (SoC): 1.4 Ghz Quad-Core Exynos 4412
• RAM: 1 GB
• Internal Storage: 8GB (actual formatted capacity is less)
• MicroSD: up to 64 GB (card sold separately)
• Max image size (still): 4608 X 3456
• Video recording: MP4 – max 1920×1080 @ 30 fps
• Size and weight: 2.79 (H) x 5.07 (W) x .75 (D) inches, 10.76 oz
• Battery: 1650 mAh – up to 4.5 hours in-use time (AT&T estimate) – up to 2 hours in-use time (Verizon estimate)