A report yesterday found that Samsung was manipulating Galaxy S4 benchmark results when it detected that certain apps, namely benchmarks, were running. When these were found to be active, the faster ARM Cortex A15 CPU cluster was activated and the GPU’s clock speed was increased from the usual 480MHz to 533MHz. AnandTech found that such practices could boost scores by about 11%.
In response to the report, Samsung has released a statement in which it claims innocence. It claims that GPU performance is boosted when full-screen mode apps, including some benchmarks, are active but that it was not its intention “to improve certain benchmark results.”
Here is the full statement:
Under ordinary conditions, the GALAXY S4 has been designed to allow a maximum GPU frequency of 533MHz. However, the maximum GPU frequency is lowered to 480MHz for certain gaming apps that may cause an overload, when they are used for a prolonged period of time in full-screen mode. Meanwhile, a maximum GPU frequency of 533MHz is applicable for running apps that are usually used in full-screen mode, such as the S Browser, Gallery, Camera, Video Player, and certain benchmarking apps, which also demand substantial performance.
The maximum GPU frequencies for the GALAXY S4 have been varied to provide optimal user experience for our customers, and were not intended to improve certain benchmark results.
Samsung Electronics remains committed to providing our customers with the best possible user experience.
As AnandTech pointed out, this practice could well trigger an “arms race” whereby more time is spent by manufacturers trying to game benchmarks “rather than improving user experience.” Hopefully this report puts an end to this before it completely invalidates most if not all benchmarks.
Let us know below if you accept Samsung’s explanation. If not, what would it take for Samsung to make things right?
Source : Samsung Tomorrow