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Review: Samsung Galaxy S Lightray 4G for MetroPCS

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Based on my experience with the Samsung Galaxy S Lightray 4G, it's a hard device to recommend. Not because it isn't a solid smartphone. In fact, it is. Nearly every feature offered by the Lightray performs far beyond other MetroPCS devices recently reviewed by Phone Scoop.

The form is good; the signal, calling, and data performance are all good; the camera and video camera work well; and the software runs fine thanks to the speedy Exynos processor.

But the Lightray delivers too little when it comes to the main feature: Dyle TV. True, it's a burgeoning service that is apt to improve and grow, but MetroPCS wants $460 from you today for a mediocre service that's of limited availability.

Looking at MetroPCS's current lineup of smartphones, the next device down the rung costs $250 — that's $210 less than the Lightray. That's the difference you're paying for a handful of live mobile TV stations. Does that sound worth it? It doesn't to me.

Our Ratings

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Reception

Battery Life

Hardware Usability

Hardware Quality

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Interface Speed

Audio Volume

Camera

Related

Hands On with Dyle Mobile TV

The folks from MCV are at CES showing off their Dyle mobile TV service running on an unannounced Samsung phone for MetroPCS. We checked it out and learned a few things about how Dyle will work and what content will be available.

MetroPCS Galaxy S Lightray 4G, With Dyle Mobile TV, Costs $459

Aug 3, 2012
MetroPCS today made an official announcement regarding the availability of the Samsung Galaxy S Lightray 4G. The Lightray, which was uncovered earlier this week, is an Android 2.3 Gingerbread smartphone that offers access to the Dyle mobile TV service.

Samsung Lightray Bringing Dyle TV To MetroPCS

Aug 1, 2012
Phone Scoop has confirmed that MetroPCS is prepping to offer the Samsung Galaxy S Lightray 4G with Dyle mobile local broadcast TV. Dyle is working with local affiliates of major networks to offer local network TV on phones.

Dyle Expands Mobile TV Footprint and Content Offering

Apr 8, 2013
Dyle mobile TV is now available in three more markets, improving its total reach to 57% of Americans. According to Dyle, customers in Baltimore, Jacksonville, and Salt Lake City now have access to its mobile TV service, which offers 116 stations across 39 markets.

MetroPCS Expands Joyn Availability to More Android Phones

Dec 3, 2012
MetroPCS today indicated that its joyn service can now be used on a wider range of its Android handsets. The service initially launched on the Samsung Galaxy Attain 4G.

Samsung Galaxy S Lightray 4G

4.3" display 480 x 800 pixels
Samsung Exynos 3 processor
1,600 mAh battery
Memory Card Slot, Headphone Jack (3.5mm)

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