Samsung launches Galaxy S2 smartphone in New York

SEOUL, Aug. 31 (Yonhap) -- Samsung Electronics Co. the world's second-largest mobile phone maker, said Wednesday that it has launched its new Galaxy S2 smartphone in New York as part of its effort to expand its market presence in the United States.
The global electronics giant said a launching ceremony was held at the Time Warner Center and that the phone will be sold through local telecommunications service providers such as AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile starting in September.
"The Galaxy S2, with its excellent design and high-tech features is expected to be very popular with U.S. consumers," a company executive said. "The smartphone has already been bought by 5 million people worldwide after its release in late April."
The Galaxy S2 to be sold in the United States will be powered by the Android platform Gingerbread and employ a super active-matrix organic light-emitting diode panel screen.
The smartphone will also feature an 8 megapixel camera, bluetooth and wireless-fidelity network compatibility.
Samsung added that the Galaxy S2 has fourth-generation Wimax network support, a dual-core application processor that can permit users to enjoy high-definition video games and motion pictures without disruptions.
The smartphone, which the company developed as a "strategic" product to compete with rivals for the premium market, also has an built-in social and media hub, and the ability to see TV content provided by MTV, Warner Brothers, CBS and Fox TV.
The cost of the latest model mobile phone has been set at US$199.99 for those sold through Sprint, Samsung said.
yonngong@yna.co.kr