Samsung's next flagship smartphone may arrive earlier than expected if the latest rumors on the matter are to be believed. Multiple sources in the supply chain tell the Electronic Times that Samsung has finalized the design of the Galaxy S7 and that the company is currently working with parts makers ahead of production.
The South Korean tech giant traditionally waits until Mobile World Congress in late February / early March to announce the season's new Galaxy handset. Increased competition from rival Apple, however, spurred Samsung to move up the launch date of the Galaxy Note 5 by several weeks in order to get the phone to market before the arrival of the iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus in mid-September.
In related news, SamMobile points to a report out of China that claims the Galaxy S7 will feature a magnesium alloy body and a glass backside like we saw with the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge. A separate report, meanwhile, suggests Samsung will use ESS Technology's SABRE 9018AQ2M 32-bit DAC converter chip which features a DNR of 129dB and THD+N of -120dB.
News of the DAC chip is especially interesting considering recent rumors that Jay-Z may be interested in offloading streaming music service Tidal. Variety notes that the rapper was seen leaving Samsung Research America last week. At the very least, Samsung may have an interest in striking up a partnership with Tidal to bolster (or replace?) its oddly-named Milk Music streaming service.