The Samsung Galaxy A56 has arrived as the most capable entry in Samsung’s mid-range trio. It builds on its predecessor, the Galaxy A55, with a thinner design, new chipset, larger display, and faster charging. The A56 also boasts improved software support, positioning it as a strong contender in the mid-range market. If you’re interested in a similar but more affordable experience, check out our full review of the Galaxy A36.
### Design & Build
The Galaxy A56 features a minimalist “One Mass” design language, with a flat back and sides for a clean and bold aesthetic. Despite a slightly larger display, the A56 is thinner and lighter than its predecessors, offering a comfortable grip. The phone is IP67-rated for dust and water protection and sports a new linear camera design on the back. While the finishes may appear uninspired, the A56 exudes a premium look and feel.
### Screen & Speakers
The A56 packs a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with improved brightness levels for better outdoor visibility and HDR content. The display offers vibrant colors and can be customized with different color profiles. The phone also features an optical in-display fingerprint sensor, although it may not be as fast or consistent as ultrasonic sensors found in higher-end devices. In terms of audio, the stereo speakers deliver clear sound but lack depth and separation, especially at higher volumes.
### Specs & Performance
Powered by a 4nm Samsung Exynos 1580 chipset, the A56 offers respectable performance for everyday tasks and productivity. While it may struggle with demanding games, the phone handles app load times and multitasking well. The 15% larger vapour chamber helps with thermal management, but users may experience occasional stutters in intensive gaming sessions. Overall, the A56 strikes a balance between performance and efficiency.
### Cameras
The A56 sports a triple rear camera setup with a 50MP main sensor, 12MP ultrawide lens, and 5MP macro camera. The new 12MP selfie camera performs well, especially in low-light conditions. The main sensor captures detailed shots with good dynamic range, although the images may appear slightly processed. The ultrawide and macro cameras offer versatility, but the quality diminishes in low light. Samsung’s AI-enhanced image editing tools enhance the camera experience, allowing for creative edits and enhancements.
### Battery Life & Charging
With a 5000mAh battery and 45W Super Fast Charge 2.0 support, the A56 offers impressive battery life and fast charging capabilities. Users can expect a full charge in under 75 minutes, making it convenient for on-the-go usage. While the phone lacks wireless charging, the fast wired charging compensates for this omission. The A56’s battery life should comfortably last a full day of moderate usage, with room for more demanding tasks.
### Software & Apps
Running on One UI 7.0 over Android 15, the A56 introduces new AI features under the “Awesome Intelligence” umbrella. These features include AI Select and Read Aloud, enhancing user interactions and productivity. Samsung’s commitment to six years of OS and security updates ensures long-term support for the device. While the A56 may not have all the flagship AI features, it offers a stripped-down version suitable for mid-range users.
### Price & Availability
The Galaxy A56 is priced at £499 in the UK for the 8GB RAM + 256GB storage variant. In the US, the phone is available for $549.99 or $499.99 for the 8GB/128GB model. The A56 offers value for users looking for a mid-range device with premium features and long-term support. However, competition from other mid-range smartphones may impact its mass-market appeal. Consider your priorities and budget before deciding on the Samsung Galaxy A56.
