Samsung Galaxy S5
Galaxy S5’s Heart Rate Monitor Reuters

The waterproof features of the Samsung Galaxy S5 became one of its important selling points. Banking on that ability, AT&T wants to put out a device that is more resilient to outside elements. For those looking for a smartphone companion out of more extreme environments, AT&T got them covered with the Samsung Galaxy S5 Active. The device has gone on sale featuring more shock resistance without compromising the premium features of the original S5.

AT&T's Samsung Galaxy S5 Active comes with similar features as the original Galaxy S5. The device sports a 5.1-inch 1080p Super AMOLED display, 16MP primary camera, 2.5GHz quad-core processor as well as water and dust proof build. Despite the target market of the device, it still has the heart monitor found on the original flagship.

One standout feature is the "convenience key" found on the phone's side. It provides immediate access to all applications of the device especially those about outdoor activity. Compared to the original flagship, the Samsung Galaxy S5 Active comes with a harder casing. It is still comparatively slim offering a sleek look for a phone intended for harsh environments. The S5 Active's slim design makes it easier to carry it around compared to bulky military style phones.

There are three color variants available: ruby red, titanium grey and camo green. The Verge, on other hand, raises the question whether there is a real demand for phones as such. The original Samsung Galaxy S5 offers additional protection from outside elements compared to most handsets that the Active variant may not stand out as much.

AT&T offers the device starting at $199.99 plus a two-year contract. There are also installment plans available. Other reported features of the device include:

  • Android OS, v4.4.2 (KitKat)
  • Qualcomm Snapdragon 801
  • Quad-core 2.5 GHz Krait 400
  • Adreno 330
  • Active noise cancellation with dedicated mic
  • SNS integration
  • MP4/DivX/XviD/WMV/H.264/H.263 player
  • MP3/WAV/eAAC+/AC3/FLAC player
  • Organizer
  • Image/video editor