Could the LG G4 be the perfect Galaxy S6 alternative for disappointed Samsung fans?

Over the weekend, the LG G4 was outed in a number of alleged press images. The biggest news from the leak was the G4’s (faux?) leather back with unique stitching down the middle, but there’s another just as important detail here: the G4 has a microSD slot and a removable back. I know what you’re thinking, “the LG G3 already had a microSD and removable back!” That is true, but the big difference is that, this time, Samsung’s latest flagship doesn’t. 

We can debate the reasons for Samsung’s change until we turn blue in the face, but ultimately the Korean giant decided that going after the mainstream market meant design was more important than extras like microSD and a removable battery, and judging by initial public reception of the device, it is very likely Samsung made the right choice for the company. For LG though, Samsung’s change in stance opens up a big opportunity, and one that the early leaked promo material suggests the company may already preparing to exploit.

As you can see in the image above, LG is quick to point out that its 3,000 mAh battery benefits “from the option to swap it out for a full one without recharging”. There’s also mention of the microSD slot. It’s obviously too early to see how much focus LG will be putting into these two features, but we wouldn’t be surprised to see advertisements calling out the removable back advantage.

With the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge, we are seeing a number of long-time Samsung critics lauding the handsets with praise, but a number of dedicated Galaxy S fans are less excited by the changes. Many of these users either were fine with the plastic backings of old, or at least learned to live with them in exchange for extras like removable back, removable battery, and a microSD slot. If LG can deliver a product with exceptional performance, features, and tie it altogether with extras like microSD and removable battery — they could have a modest hit on their hands.

For what it’s worth, the LG G4 is shaping up to be a beast of a device with an improved 5.5-inch QHD display, a 16MP camera with f/1.8 aperture, and plenty of other improvements, though its rumored Snapdragon 808 processor might be seen as a bit of a turn off when compared to the Snapdragon 810 in the One M9 (and the G Flex 2) or the Exynos processor found inside the latest Galaxy S units.

Read more: LG G4 rumor roundup

If leaked pics prove accurate, the LG G4 also benefits from a more premium design than past members of the LG G family, as well as what appears to be three plastic back choices for those not interested in the leather design. Unlike the Galaxy S6, however, the new look doesn’t come with any concessions. All the hardware features and extras that LG users (and possibly Samsung users) love are still here. LG is also said to be greatly improving its software experience, something that should be a welcome change.

Putting everything we know about the LG G4 together, the handset will likely appeal to former LG fans, those who liked the G series but wanted a more premium design, and even some Galaxy S power users that are looking for an alternative to the Galaxy S6 in a world where Samsung has turned away from removable batteries and expandable storage. This could mean that LG will have a banner year for its flagship. Of course, that’s only if all the pieces fall perfectly into place.
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In order for LG to hit one out of the park, they need to be on their A-game for marketing, pricing needs to be as aggressive as ever (something LG is known for), and the phone’s performance can’t suffer from the optimization and reputation issues that plagued the LG G Flex 2. What do you think, can LG get it right with the LG G4?