Galaxy Note

It has already been confirmed by Samsung that the Galaxy Note 4 will have an ultraviolet (UV) sensor, but there wasn't much information available. Now, according to a report over on SamMobile, we have some idea as to what consumers can expect to see from the built-in functionality. The new component will integrate itself within Samsung's S Health app, providing yet more personal data for the owner to take advantage of.

Is it gimmicky? Sure. It's Samsung, the home of the smartphone heart-rate monitor, but it is cool at the same time.

So how exactly does the UV sensor work? It measures the sun's ultraviolet radiation and prevents owners from potentially damaging their skin, increasing the risk of skin cancer. This is possible thanks to recommended guidance provided, based on the current UV index level measured at that point in time. All that's required to measure the radiation is to maintain a 60 degree angle of elevation towards the sun against the back of the sensor.

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We noted that it's a useful and rather cool feature simply because people are generally fairly ignorant when it comes to keeping safe in the sun. To help keep everyone safe from being exposed to too much UV rays, Samsung will provide a full explanation on each level of UV index level, as well as some cool truths and false statements in the app.

Here's the information that will allegedly be included in the app, as outlined by SamMobile:

The truths:

  • A tan results from your body defending itself against further damage from UV radiation.
  • A dark tan on white skin offers only limited protection equivalent to an SPF of about 4.
  • Up to 80% of solar UV radiation can penetrate light cloud cover. Haze in the atmosphere can even increase UV radiation exposure.
  • Water offers only minimal protection from UV radiation, and reflection from water can enhance your UV radiation exposure.
  • UV radiation is generally lower during the winter months, but snow reflection can double your overall exposure, especially at high altitude. Pay particular attention in early spring when temperatures are low but sun's rays are unexpectedly strong.
  • Sunscreens should not be used to increase sun exposure time but to increase protection during unavoidable exposure. The protection they afford depends critically on their correct application.
  • UV radiation exposure is cumulative during the day.
  • Sunburn is caused by UV radiation which cannot be felt. The heating effect is caused by the sun's infrared radiation and not by UV radiation

The statements below are false:

  • A suntan is healthy.
  • A tan protects you from the sun.
  • You can't get sunburnt on a cloudy day.
  • You can't get sunburnt while in the water.
  • UV radiation during the winter is not dangerous.
  • Sunscreens protect me so I can sunbathe much longer.
  • If you take regular breaks during sunbathing you won't get sunburnt.
  • If you don't fell the hot rays of the sun you won't get sunburnt.

What are your thoughts on said functionality?

Source: SamMobile