Samsung Kies 3.2.16084_2 / 2.6.4.16113.3

Overview

The Samsung Kies software has been around since 2005. Between then and now the software has gone through many versions to update what it can do with older phones and now Samsung smart phones / tablets. The software is designed to be used to create backups and access information on a Samsung device.

The software can be downloaded but also often is supplied with a new purchase of a smart phone from the Korean company. The software can read files stored on the main device or an external SD card. It can be used to backup files from a device or restore files back to a device. Connections may be made via the supplied USB cable or via Wi-Fi using Kies Air.

Installation

The installation ran smoothly with no issues whatsoever. The Samsung device can be plugged in via USB when prompted or post-installation so the software can begin to read the data current stored on the device. There is no extra unwelcome software like malware or adware with Samsung Kies.

Interface

The interface shows connected devices in the top left pane, with a run down of the different types of data that can be backed up or restored running further down the left side of the display.

Pros

• Backup or restore data from/to a Samsung mobile device
• Connect via USB cable or over Wi-Fi using Kies Air
• See all contacts, music, photos, video, podcast, and story albums.
• Transfer files easily from Windows hard drives over to the Samsung device
• Perform emergency firmware update
• Check for new firmware updates for the Samsung model and install them

Cons

Transferring files is often easier with Windows Explorer which can open when a Samsung device is plugged in

Alternatives

As this is custom software from Samsung for their own devices there are no great alternatives to this, especially with the emergency and regular firmware updating option.

Conclusion

The Samsung Kies software is freely provided by the company. It provides an easy way to see what type of content is currently stored on a Samsung mobile device. Connections can be made either via USB or Wi-Fi however certain types of actions like Firmware updates can only be performed over USB due to their importance. As a file transfer manager, perhaps Windows Explorer is a better solution but Samsung Kies is ideal when you wish to backup your device and see what data you have stored on it.