Samsung's Galaxy S III Mini hits NZ

Samsung New Zealand has launched the Galaxy S III Mini, coming to Kiwi stores later this month.

A compact version of its flagship smartphone, Samsung says the product draws on the performance and design of the Galaxy S III.

Stefan Lecchi, Head of Telecommunications at Samsung NZ, says the device is designed to be practical enough to meet everyday user needs.

“The Galaxy SIII has proven hugely popular in New Zealand with its instinctive usability and intelligence," Lecchi says.

"Building on such success we are proud to introduce a new member to the Galaxy family – one that offers the same core benefits of the Galaxy SIII, but in a smaller size and at a lower price.”

Powered by Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean), the little brother so to speak comes with a thin curvedand 4.0-inch Super AMOLED display.

But while the product unquestionably dines at the elite end of the tech table, can customers afford another gadget?

"It looks like a very special product," says Aucklander Stuart Greene. "But will I buy it? Probably not.

"If customers simply can't react to every new release and while the product speaks for itself, it is more a question of need rather than want.

"I'm happy with my Samsung Galaxy S III smartphone and my regular laptop - anything else would be blowing money in my eyes."

Available through Vodafone, Telecom and 2Degrees at selected retailers nationwide from late February, the product comes in two colours: Pebble Blue and Marble White with a RRP of $599.

Is Samsung's new release simply an expensive luxury or a valued product in the market? Tell us your thoughts below