Samsung again staked its claim on the smartphone crown this evening in Barcelona, unveiling its latest flagship smartphones – Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge.

With the company already having warned that 2016 will be tough, it will be looking to the devices to maintain its position at the high end – where many of its rivals have struggled.

In a statement, Samsung said the new devices offer “refined design, more advanced camera, streamlined software functionality and unparalleled connectivity to a galaxy of products, services and experiences”.

Galaxy S7 has a 5.1-inch screen, while Galaxy S7 Edge is larger at 5.5-inches. A new addition is an “always-on display”, offering access to important information with a “zero touch experience”.

Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge are said to offer “the first Dual Pixel camera on a smartphone”, delivering brighter and sharper images, even in low light. This is also said to deliver a faster shutter speed and more accurate autofocus even in low-light conditions.

Also on the spec sheet is fast wired and wireless charging, and a “hybrid SIM card tray”, enabling users to insert a microSD card for additional storage and, in some markets, a second SIM.

The South Korean company also said that it had made “significant hardware and software updates” to optimise gaming performance.

“The powerful processor and bigger battery capacity ensure longer playing time, and the internal cooling system keeps the device from overheating,” it noted in a statement.

Game Launcher, a new add-on for gamers, enables battery management and minimises notifications, and users can record their gaming or share screens to play with others.

Echoing a feature offered by some rivals, the new Galaxy line offers IP68 water and dust resistance.

The devices will be available from mid-March 2016.