The $1,599 price for the new Apple Studio Display makes it somewhat controversial. Samsung’s response is the $700 Smart Monitor M8, which measures 32 inches and has a UHD resolution.
Samsung clearly has its eye on Mac users. It built Apple AirPlay 2 into the screen. And an image of the display playing Apple TV+ is a prominent part of the press release.
Samsung Smart Monitor M8 is no ordinary external display
The M8’s resolution is 3,840 pixels by 2,160 pixels. Plus it offers 400 nits brightness, a 60 Hz refresh rate and 178° of viewing. There are two built-in 5W speakers.
This fits into a casing that’s a mere 0.45 inches (11.4mm) thick. Colors options include white, pink, blue and green. A squared-off stand makes the M8 resemble the Apple Studio Display or an iMac.
Like all of Samsung’s Smart Monitor line, the newest model can stream Apple TV+, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Disney+ without needing a connection to any other computer, just a Wi-Fi connection. Or, as noted, a wireless connection from an iPhone or iPad via AirPlay 2 is also an option. Users can even access the Microsoft 365 cloud service with just the monitor.
“We aspired to create a product capable of matching the lifestyles of all kinds of people and preferences,” said Kyounghoon Kim, Head of Design Team, Visual Display Business, Samsung Electronics.
The M8 comes with a magnetic and removable SlimFit Cam that features Face Tracking and Auto Zoom functions. This allows it follow an individual speaker during video calls.
The Samsung Smart Monitor M8 is available for pre-order. In white, the cost is $699.99. Other colorways raise the price by $30.
Vs. Apple Studio Display
For $1,599, the Apple Studio Display includes a 27-inch screen at a 5120-by-2880 resolution — 5K. It offers 600 nits brightness and 122° of viewing. The screen has a built-in 12MP camera with support for Center Stage.
It is not intended to be used without being connected to a Mac, so there is no AirPlay 2 support.
Don’t miss the Cult of Mac comparison on how Apple Studio Display stacks up against Pro Display XDR and others.
Source: Samsung
