Which Samsung Galaxy model introduced the Always-On Display feature?

The Samsung Galaxy S7 introduced the Always-On Display feature. Released in 2016, the Galaxy S7 and curved-screen S7 Edge could show a clock, calendar, notifications, or other information while the phone was idle.

The feature worked especially well with Samsung’s Super AMOLED screen. Because individual pixels can illuminate themselves, most of the display could remain black while only the necessary pixels used power. Samsung claimed the Always-On Display consumed roughly half a percent of battery capacity per hour.

A proximity sensor could disable the display when the phone was in a pocket or enclosed space. This helped limit unnecessary battery use and made the feature more practical for everyday use.

A common mix-up is the Galaxy S8, which expanded and refined the feature but did not introduce it. The Galaxy S7 also restored water resistance and microSD support after those features had disappeared from the Galaxy S6.