When Samsung launched the first Galaxy Note there was a question mark over the device. Would people want a huge 5.7 inch display on a phone? The device is too big to operate one-handed and unlike other smartphones which rely on touch screens, it comes with a stylus.
With the Galaxy Note now on its third version, the answer is a clear ‘yes’. The phone is especially popular in Asia; apparently it does a better job of dealing with Asian characters than everyday smartphones. It’s also popular with people who use it as a small tablet.
In practice it’s slim and light despite its size. Battery life is good – you’ll easily get a full day’s work from the Note 3 before recharging. It runs fast enough to cope with Android applications and is a great choice for people on the move who need a bigger than usual display.
The Galaxy Note 3 costs $1200 from Vodafone or Telecom New Zealand.

NZBusiness Knowledge Series: Stop winging it, build a business strategy that actually works
Thursday 30 July 2026 | 7:00am – 9:00pm
📍 Covert Theatre, 51 Mackelvie Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland
Everyone talks about the importance of business strategy, but what does it actually mean in practice? Strategy trainer Ryan Sproull cuts through the jargon to give SME owners a clear, practical framework for thinking strategically about their business.

