Samsung has long been recognized for its performance-driven models in the Galaxy M-series, aiming to offer compelling value across various price points. With the introduction of the new Galaxy M36 5G, the company is making a concerted effort to solidify its presence in the mid-range market. After spending some time with the device, here’s an overview of its key features and specifications.
The starting price for the Galaxy M36 5G in India is set at Rs. 17,499, which includes a configuration with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. For those seeking more memory, the 8GB RAM version with 128GB of storage is available for Rs. 18,999, while the high-end option, featuring 8GB RAM and a generous 256GB storage, is priced at Rs. 21,999.
Available in Velvet Black, Serene Green, and Orange Haze, the Samsung Galaxy M36 5G offers a stylish choice for consumers.
One of the standout features of the Galaxy M36 5G is its refreshed design, setting it apart from previous models in the series. The smartphone boasts a flat frame and minimalist aesthetic, contributing to its sleek profile, which measures a mere 7.7mm in thickness.
The device comes in three attractive color options: Velvet Black, Serene Green, and Orange Haze. During my review, the Orange variant particularly caught my eye, thanks to its striking metallic finish. The new camera module design aligns more closely with Samsung’s flagship models, enhancing its visual appeal. However, the placement of the power and volume buttons may pose a slight inconvenience due to their position. The front display features a water-drop notch, which some might find outdated compared to a more modern punch-hole design.
The device features a large 6.7-inch Full HD+ Super AMOLED Infinity-U display.
The Samsung Galaxy M36 5G boasts a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels. This panel offers a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+, ensuring durability. Initial testing of the display indicated vibrant colors, promising an enjoyable viewing experience, although further assessment will be provided in the full review.
Camera performance is another critical aspect of the Galaxy M36 5G, which includes a triple rear camera setup. This system features a 50-megapixel primary sensor with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), an 8-megapixel wide-angle lens, and a 2-megapixel macro camera. For selfies and video calls, there is a 13-megapixel front-facing camera. Comprehensive testing of these camera capabilities will take place in the forthcoming review.
Powered by OneUI 7.0, the smartphone runs on the latest Android 15 operating system.
The Galaxy M36 is also relatively unique in its price range due to its incorporation of AI features, including Circle to Search and Gemini Live. Furthermore, it includes a suite of AI editing tools, AI Screen, and an AI Stereo Depth Map. The device operates on OneUI 7.0, which is based on Android 15. Samsung’s commitment to providing six major OS upgrades and six years of security updates should be noted as a significant advantage for consumers.
In terms of performance, the smartphone is equipped with the Exynos 1380 processor, featuring four A78 cores clocked at 2.4GHz and four A55 cores clocked at 2.0GHz, along with a Mali-G68 MP5 GPU. Users can select configurations with up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage.
The smartphone is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery and supports rapid charging at 25W.
Finally, the Samsung Galaxy M36 5G is powered by a 5,000mAh battery, supporting 25W fast charging, which may feel somewhat modest compared to competitors. Additional features include an in-display fingerprint sensor and a comprehensive array of connectivity options, such as 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS + GLONASS, and a USB Type-C port.
The Galaxy M36 5G presents itself as a compelling option within the mid-range segment, boasting a distinctive design and a solid display complemented by a variety of AI features. Nonetheless, it faces stiff competition from other models such as the CMF Phone 2 Pro, Realme P3 Pro, and iQOO Z10x.
