Why the Galaxy S4 won't be shedding its plastic roots

 

There's one complaint that often crops up with the Galaxy S III: it feels "plastic-y."At a time when competitors are using glass, aluminum, and even higher quality plastics such as polycarbonate, Samsung has stuck to its guns with a thin, bendable plastic body.Which is why the Galaxy S4 won't stray too far from that design philosophy.

 Samsung also has discussed the pros and cons of keeping a removable back cover so the battery can be replaced, an issue other companies deal with as well. An LG executive told CNET that the company had received customer complaints about the Optimus G because the back wouldn't come off. The back cover of the larger Optimus G Pro is removable.

Samsung has argued that the plastic back cover, which feels light, is more durable than those of other smartphones because it's bendable and can better absorb physical impact. CNET Editor Jessica Dolcourt noted in her review that it is "just about the nicest plastic phone I've ever seen."

Still, Samsung's plastic GS4 will roll out at a time when other smartphones are stepping up their designs. There's no mistaking that Apple's iPhone 5, with its thin metal frame, looks and feels like a premium product. Likewise, the One's all-aluminum body stands out among a sea of bland Android competitors.

In addition, Nokia is using a harder version of plastic called polycarbonate, and Lumia is introducing smartphones in more vibrant colors.