Samsung’s Entry-Level Evolution and Mid-Range Durability: What You Need to Know

While the tech world eagerly anticipates the global launch of Samsung’s premium flagship Galaxy S26 lineup—expected to hit the market in late February 2026—the South Korean giant has been quietly shoring up its budget and mid-range offerings. Recent regulatory filings have shed light on a massive battery upgrade coming to the entry-level segment, while questions remain about the durability standards of the brand’s current popular mid-rangers.

New Details Emerge for the Galaxy A07 5G

Fresh leaks have surfaced regarding Samsung’s next ultra-affordable smartphone, the Galaxy A07 5G. A report from Tecnoblog indicates that the device has already cleared certification hurdles in Brazil, receiving approval from ANATEL, the country’s National Telecommunications Agency. The documentation explicitly references a new terminal with the model number SM-A076M/DS, which effectively confirms the existence of the Galaxy A07 5G.

Perhaps the most significant revelation from these filings concerns the device’s power source. An image of the battery, identified by the code LC-196 and approved back in October, confirms a capacity of 6,000 mAh. This represents a substantial upgrade over the 5,000 mAh unit found in its predecessor, the Galaxy A07 4G, suggesting that Samsung is prioritizing longevity for its budget consumers.

beyond the larger battery and 5G connectivity, the hardware appears to follow an iterative path. The device is expected to retain the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor—a chipset featuring two ARM Cortex-A76 cores and six Cortex-A55 cores paired with a Mali-G57 GPU. The base configuration will likely offer 4GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. While Samsung has yet to confirm pricing or specific release dates, the certification suggests an official announcement could be imminent in the coming weeks.

The Standard for Mid-Range Durability

As Samsung prepares the next generation of budget devices, the company’s current mid-range portfolio, specifically the Galaxy A54 5G and Galaxy A34 5G, continues to drive volume. These handsets have earned a reputation for being well-rounded devices, packing 8GB of RAM, up to 256GB of storage, and 120Hz displays. However, given that users take their phones everywhere—from the commute to the bathroom—questions regarding their water resistance are common.

It is important to clarify that while no smartphone is truly “waterproof,” these mid-range devices offer significant resistance. Both the Galaxy A54 and Galaxy A34 carry an IP67 rating. In practical terms, this certification means the devices are fully sealed against dust and can withstand submersion in fresh water up to a depth of one meter for 30 minutes without sustaining damage.

Understanding IP Ratings and Limitations

For consumers confused by the technical jargon, the Ingress Protection (IP) code is straightforward. The first digit represents protection against solids, while the second indicates resistance to liquids. With a rating of “6” for solids, these Samsung phones offer the highest level of dust protection available. The “7” rating for liquids signifies robust protection against immersion, though it falls slightly short of the IP68 standard found in premium flagships like the Galaxy S23 or iPhone 14, which are rated for depths of 1.5 meters.

Despite these protections, users should exercise caution. An IP67 rating is not a license to expose the device to all types of moisture. Saltwater, for instance, is corrosive and should be avoided entirely. Furthermore, intentionally submerging the phone for extended periods is not recommended. The rating is designed to protect against accidents—like a drop in the sink or a splash by the pool—rather than underwater usage.