Samsung Galaxy C9 release date, specs: upcoming handset to feature new antenna design

The logo of Samsung Electronics is seen at its headquarters in Seoul, South Korea, July 4, 2016.Reuters/Kim Hong-Ji

It is already expected that Samsung will add another iteration to its mid-range Galaxy C. However, the upcoming Galaxy C9 is not just a lineup expansion as speculations suggest noted improvements in its design and features.

According to SamMobile, supposed teaser images of the new Samsung Galaxy C9 recently made their rounds on China-based social media site Weibo. The new teaser photos further confirm that the iteration is ready for launch. However, the industry follower also noted that the images confirm some major detail changes on the Galaxy C9, which Samsung will also likely feature on future device releases.

Reportedly, the Galaxy C9 will sport a new antenna design. In the images of the new device, an unobtrusive, thin tri-antenna band design that is located inconspicuously on the top and bottom of the back panel. This deviates from the standard antenna design for other smartphones. Usually, a thick line — normally white in color — is located on the back panel where the antenna is supposed to be. Looking at the supposed images of the Galaxy C9, the new tri-band antenna looks pleasing to the eye, and having the same tone as the rest of the back panel doesn't mar the design.

Meanwhile, aside from confirming design changes, the supposed leaked images also reveal that Samsung intends to launch the Galaxy C9 as a full lineup. The tri-band antenna, as well as an all-metal unibody design, will also be featured in a series addition, the Galaxy C9 Pro. With a Pro tag, it is expected that the lineup expansion will have step-up features over the base model Galaxy C9.

Supposed specs and features of the Galaxy C9 include a Snapdragon 652 processor, paired with 6 GB of RAM, and 64 GB of onboard storage. It will feature a 6.0-inch display with full HD resolution, and both cameras on the back and front will sport a 16-MP setup.