Galaxy J2 (2016), Smart Glow launched, Galaxy J Max in tow

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It's finally official. Although Samsung hasn't yet officially detailed the full capabilities of its new Smart Glow feature, the Galaxy J2 2016 Edition that bears it will finally go out to the public, at least in India. Toting admittedly rather low-end specs, the Galaxy J2 (2016) will most likely use that Smart Glow to be its major selling point. Samsung has also launched the Galaxy J Max, a smartphone that spans an enormous 7 inches, further blurring the lines between smartphone and tablet.

The Smart Glow is a curious new feature and is probably the newest "innovation" that Samsung has thought up in a while. It basically puts an LED ring around the rear camera, which turned out to be a lot wider than desired, which would glow in different colors and patterns to signify different notifications. It remains to be seen whether that will actually be of any practical use, considering the memorization involved and the limited circumstances it can be used. At least now that the feature is out there, there will be more feedback and testimonies available.

Even more curious is that Samsung decided to put the feature on a very low budget, entry-level smartphone first. Then again, if they were going to do something experimental, it would be less risky to use those. The Galaxy J2 2016 may be an upgrade from the previous generation, but it isn't exactly going to wow anyone. It runs on a 1.5 GHz quad-core Spreadtrum processor with 1.5 GB of RAM. The 5-inch 720p Super AMOLED screen is at least decent. There's an 8 megapixel rear camera paired with 5 megapixels on the front. Given the specs, the 2,600 mAh battery is going to last for a good while. It also runs Android 6.0 Marshmallow out of the box. In addition to what it bills as a new UI, Samsung is also introducing a Turbo Speed Technology feature that boosts the performance of the CPU and RAM when you need a bit more muscle. It's usual Ultra Data Saving Mode and S Bike mode are also in the package.

In the same breath, Samsung also introduced the Galaxy J Max in india. This is one of the OEM's more insane smartphone sizes, going a full 7 inches, taking phablets to the extreme. That said, the specs aren't exactly something to write home about, with a 1080p resolution, 1.5 GHz quad-core CPU, 1.5 GB of RAM, 8 megapixel rear camera with OIS, and 2 megapixel front camera. At least the 4,000 mAh battery is acceptable.

The Samsung Galaxy J2 2016 Edition is available in Black, Silver, and Gold colors and carries a 9,750 Rs (roughly $145) price tag. The Galaxy J Max, in Black and Gold only, goes for around 13,400 Rs (about $200), and will launch at the end of the month.