Samsung skips from Galaxy S10 to 'S20' for upcoming refresh

Samsung is anticipated to launch its first flagship device of 2020 on February 11, with the unveiling of a rival to Apple's iPhone as part of its Galaxy S range. Just a month away from the launch event, photographs of what is thought to be the new model have already leaked, seemingly spoiling most of the main feature announcements.

The photographs published by XDA-Developers include one model booting up, revealing the name as being the "Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G." While the introduction of 5G is expected, with the plus indicating it is a larger-size model of at least two, the biggest element is arguably its name.

Samsung's flagship Galaxy S models have typically followed the same numbering system, increasing by one for each year. As the 2019 release was the Galaxy S10 line, it can be inferred the new models will use the name "S11," but the images point to Samsung switching to "S20" instead.

It is likely Samsung has opted for the number to mark the beginning of the new decade and to match the year, while at the same time distancing itself from Apple's iPhone 11 range.

Other images show the model as having a large camera bump on the rear with six openings. Along with a flash and a possible microphone, there appear to be four camera lenses, possibly covering the ranges of ultra-wide, wide, telephoto, and macro.

Samsung may also be reusing the four camera idea from the Galaxy S10 5G, which included a 3D depth-mapping camera alongside three regular versions.

On the front, Samsung has opted for a full-screen display, with a "hole-punch" camera at the top and a slim chin at the base. To one side is a volume rocker and power button, but no sign of the Bixby button used in the previous generation.

Current rumors has Samsung preparing to launch at least three models at the event, covering the 6.4-, 6.7-, and 6.9-inch sizes. A large 5,000mAh battery is touted, along with 5G connectivity across the board, a possible 108-megapixel rear camera, 5x optical zoom, and 120Hz refresh rates.

There is also the possibility of another foldable smartphone making an appearance, as a second attempt on the Galaxy Fold concept from 2019.