Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini review: Specs of the 4.3-inch Android powered Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini may include a 4.3-inch AMOLED display and a dual-core processor. The unit has a very strong following like the S2 Plus and S3, much love for its design and overall functionality.

The Android 4.4 KitKat update for the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini has only added more value to the unit and allowed its current owners to enjoy some new features for the handset. On June 15, the limited and “mysterious” Black Edition variant of the compact version is getting the Android 4.4.2 KitKat upgrade.

Despite the cult following of the S4 Mini, it’s uncertain if the unit will continue to have a winning streak amongst Android fans. The unit has numerous competitions these days coming from Motorola’s Moto G and Moto E and Nokia’s, Nokia X. In terms of pricing, since an unlocked version of the unit could be as much as $500, it’s also competing with the highly popular Nexus 5.

The HTC One Mini 2 and the Sony Xperia Z1 Compact may also serve as tough competitors for the unit. The compact versions are well designed and the Xperia Z1 Compact has features that go beyond the usual specs of a “mini.”

Despite its current heavy competition, the S4 Mini also has some glaring flaws.

According to Engadget writer Brad Molen, one of their biggest gripes with the device is the lackluster 4.3-inch Super AMOLED display with qHD (960 x 540) resolution. The display specs translate to a pixel density of 256 ppi, which is a drop in quality compared to the Samsung Galaxy S4.

Storage-wise, the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini starts at a limited 8GB storage, but does have MicroSD support to expand it if necessary. In terms of camera, it has an 8MP rear camera and a 2MP front-facing camera. Video capture is at 1080p and it’s 1.7GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 processor is coupled with 1.5GB of RAM.

One advantage for the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini is that the camera has a full suite of adjustable settings, such as white balance, ISO, exposure, HDR and a large number of filter and modes. As Engadget notes, the camera’s highest resolution are 4:3, though a 16:9 option is available using 6MP. Most of the shots taken with the S4 Mini with the tech site’s test were detailed.

The Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini has the look and feel of an S4, except with a smaller size. But the main issue with it, aside from the display is the price. The unit is roughly around $500 or more (a quick look at Staples shows one priced at $549.99) and the recently launched Nexus 5 with its $350.00 tag could easily beat this smartphone in terms of price.

The Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini is expected to be succeeded by the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S5 Mini. Based on speculations and the release date of the S4 Mini, many expect that the S5 Mini maybe released by the end of this month.