Samsung Galaxy S9 specs, release rumors: 2018 flagship to undergo drastic design changes; In-display fingerprint sensor cancelled?

There are a couple of months left before Samsung releases the next iteration of the Galaxy S line, but there are already hints of what it might bring to the table. The latest one suggests that there will be significant changes to the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S9, especially when it comes to its design.

Chinese leaker Ice universe has mysteriously posted on Twitter that the "back of the Galaxy S9 will change a lot." It was not explained how, but the leaker notably has a reputation for revealing accurate information about unreleased devices. Per Forbes, he previously got the Galaxy Note 8 design right and leaked the first real-world photos of the Galaxy S8.

If his claim is true, the most likely big change would be the device's camera set-up. Many were disappointed last year about the S8 not boasting dual cameras like the rivaling flagships, but it looks like the tech giant is finally jumping on the bandwagon next year. Then again, this is just one of the options. The publication says the redesign may also mean moving the fingerprint sensor at a more reachable position or coat the handset with a mix of aluminum and glass — similar to the Google Pixel 2 — for a combination of durability and wireless charging support.

Ice Universe further claimed that the Samsung Galaxy S9 may also retain the headphone jack. This contradicts earlier rumors that the 2018 flagship would ditch the feature like the iPhone and Google Pixel 2. However, the under display fingerprint sensor is reportedly not happening, corroborating a report earlier this week that the tech will be incorporated on the Galaxy Note 9 instead. This means Samsung will stick with a rear-facing fingerprint sensor or remove it altogether like what Apple did to the iPhone 8 and iPhone X.

Samsung has yet to announce the launch date of next year's flagship, but it is expected to be unveiled in mid-February 2018 just before the Mobile World Congress.