Samsung Galaxy A56 Review: What’s Missing in This Mid-Range Phone?
Samsung’s new Galaxy A56 5G launched in March 2025 with a price of about ₦600,000. But even though it’s a brand-new phone, many people feel like it doesn’t offer enough for the money.
Let’s take a closer look at what Samsung didn’t include in the A56—and why it matters if you’re thinking about buying this mid-range phone.
Galaxy A56 Release Date
Samsung released the Galaxy A56 on March 19, 2025, alongside the cheaper A36 and A26. They’ve been releasing phones in this series around the same time every year:
- A55 – March 2024
- A54 – March 2023
- A53 – March 2022
- A52 – March 2021
6 Important Features Missing from the Galaxy A56
Here are the top things Samsung didn’t add to the A56, which may affect your decision to buy it:
1. No Memory Card Slot or 512GB Version
Unlike older Galaxy A-series phones, the A56 doesn’t support microSD cards, and the highest storage option is just 256GB.
For people who store lots of apps, photos, or videos, this could be a big problem. Previous models allowed more space or even expandable storage this one doesn’t.
2. No Zoom Camera (Telephoto Lens)
The A56 has:
- 50MP main camera
- 12MP wide-angle
- 5MP macro lens
But no zoom lens. Other phones at this price now include cameras that zoom clearly (telephoto). Samsung’s choice means you can’t take good zoomed-in shots or high-quality portraits.
3. Bezels Are Still Thick
The screen is big (6.7 inches) and bright, but the bottom edge (chin) is still thick.
Other brands like OnePlus are doing a better job of making phones look sleek. Samsung used to lead in design, but this model doesn’t stand out.
4. Still No Wireless Charging
Even with fast 45W charging, the A56 doesn’t support wireless charging.
That means you’ll always need to plug it in. Wireless charging is now common in many phones, even mid-range ones, so this feels like a missed chance.
5. Average Performance for Gaming
The phone uses the new Exynos 1580 chip, which is a bit better than the one in the A55.
But it still struggles with heavy games and video editing. Plus, it doesn’t have Samsung DeX or AV1 video support, which could matter for advanced users.
6. Fingerprint Scanner in the Screen
The A56 uses a fingerprint scanner under the screen, placed low down.
This looks modern, but some users may prefer the side fingerprint scanner from older A-series phones, which are faster and easier to reach.
What’s Good About the Galaxy A56?
Even though it’s missing some things, the Samsung Galaxy A56 does have a few highlights:
- Runs the latest Android 15 with One UI 7
- Very bright AMOLED screen
- Fast 45W charging
- Slimmer and lighter than the A55
- Covered with Gorilla Glass Victus+ for better durability
- Comes with AI-powered features for photo editing
- Good selfie camera
Key Features of the Galaxy A56 5G
- Display: 6.7-inch Super AMOLED, 120Hz
- Processor: Exynos 1580
- RAM: 8GB or 12GB
- Storage: 128GB or 256GB
- Battery: 5,000 mAh, 45W charging
- Camera: 50MP + 12MP + 5MP
- Software: Android 15 (One UI 7)
- No headphone jack
- Colours: Pink, Olive, Graphite, Light Grey
- Price: ₦600,000 – ₦620,000 (~$382–$395)
Should You Buy the Galaxy A56?
If you already use the A54 or A55, this may not feel like a big upgrade. It’s missing expandable storage and some useful features like wireless charging and better gaming power.
Other brands like Xiaomi offer more for the same price. But if you want a phone with great software updates, good build quality, and a clean Samsung experience, the Galaxy A56 is still a solid mid-range Android phone—just not the most exciting one.
Price & Where to Buy
- In Nigeria, it costs around ₦600,000 and is available on Samsung’s website and Jumia.
- In the UK, it’s priced at £559 for the 8GB/256GB version.
- In Brazil, it costs about $306, which is competitive given fewer options there.
Want a better phone for the price? Consider checking out Xiaomi 14T, Motorola Edge 50 Pro, or even the OnePlus Nord 4.