Samsung traditionally brings out a rugged version of its Galaxy S flagship a short while after the smartphone launches, though in the UK you may not have been aware of this fact since they are usually sold as US-only AT&T exclusives. (Main image via Android Police .)

The Galaxy S8 is already reasonably tough, with IP68-rated dust- and waterproof protection, and Gorilla Glass 5 protecting the screen. But there is an awful lot of glass in its design, and it appeals as much for its good looks as it does its performance and features. For some users, a protective case will not be enough. So in 2017 Samsung is once again preparing an Active version of its new flagship.

Key differences between the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Active include the latter’s tougher, ruggedised body (which also weighs in a little more), a higher capacity 4000mAh (vs 3000mAh) battery, and MIL-STD-810G compliance. (You’ll also like our full Galaxy S8 review .)

Galaxy S8 vs Galaxy S8 Active - 1

When is the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active release date?

Samsung typically unveils its Active handsets in June, which has of course been and gone. However, it recently passed through the FCC for accreditation, and Samsung has scheduled an Unpacked event for 23 August for its Note 8, so we’re expecting it to come any day now.

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How much will the Samsung Galaxy S8 Active cost?

Last year the Galaxy S7 Active was introduced with a $100 premium over the standard Galaxy S7, so we can expect the same again.

With a US price of $720 for the Galaxy S8, you can expect the S8 Active to cost around $820.

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What are the rumoured features and specifications?

The Galaxy S8 Active’s specification is pretty much confirmed, now that we’ve seen various leaks from Geekbench 4, GFXBench and, more recently, a proper spec sheet in a Weibo post .

Galaxy S8 Active spec - 2

Here’s a summary of what to expect:

SpecificationSamsung Galaxy S8 Active
Display5.8in (2960×1440) SuperAMOLED shatter-resistant Infinity edge display, Gorilla Glass 5
Operating systemAndroid 7.0 Nougat
Processor2.3GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 octa-core
GPUAdreno 540
Memory4GB RAM
Storage64GB (+ up to 256GB microSD)
DurabilityIP68 + MIL-STD-810G
Camera12Mp, f/1.7 dual-pixel, 8Mp, f/1.7 front camera with autofocus
ConnectivityWi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.1, NFC, MST, A-GPS, GLONASS, fingerprint scanner
Battery4000mAh, fast charging (wired and wireless)
Dimensions5.99×2.95×0.39in
Weight7.34oz
ColoursMeteor Grey, Titanium Gold

Its listing by the FCC also confirms several features, including a rear fingerprint scanner, tough bumpers and IP68 protection. The AT&T logo on the back would appear to confirm the theory it will be exclusive to the US network operator.

Galaxy S8 Active FCC - 3

Codenamed ‘Cruiser’, the forthcoming Galaxy S8 Active (SM-G892A) will feature many of the same customisations as previous Active handsets that enable it to go the distance whatever the elements.

You can expect a higher-capacity battery (4,000mAh, and still with wireless and fast charging) and MIL-STD-810G compliance (pressure, temperature, shock and radiation resistance) to that regard.

It will more than likely feature rubber protection around its edges, making it both larger and heavier than the Galaxy S8.

In the Galaxy S7 Active the company added shatterproof protection to the screen, so it’s likely we’ll see the same again here. Should the screen become subject to damage, any cracks won’t spread across the entire screen.

The screen is unlikely to get the curved edges seen in the flagship models, which is a theory backed up by an image recently leaked by the Wireless Power Consortium . This image also tells us that there are no longer any buttons on the front of the device.

Galaxy S8 Active - 4

What we don’t yet know is whether, like previous Active phones, the Galaxy S8 Active will feature an Activity key in addition to the Bixby button.

Author: Marie Black, Global Director of Content Operations, Foundry

Galaxy S8 Active UK release date, price, features & specs rumours - 5

Marie is Global Director of Content Operations at Foundry. A Journalism graduate from the London College of Printing, she’s worked in tech media for 20 years. These days she is focused on refining editorial processes and workflows, and on our evergreen, transactional and custom content strategy.

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