Korean tech giant Samsung Electronics is expanding its already burgeoning Android-powered Galaxy range, courtesy of dual-mode LTE (4G) versions of its Galaxy S4 (review) and Galaxy S4 Mini.

According to the company, these two new smartphones are the world’s first commercial devices that are capable of seamlessly switching between TDD-LTE (Time-Division Duplex) and FDD-LTE (Frequency Division Duplex) networks. The Suwon-based firm elaborated that this allows for continuous and seamless voice and data communications, even as the devices switch between two different types of LTE networks.

Why the need for dual-mode LTE?

Samsung explained that the majority of the global LTE market is based on FDD-LTE technology. The company added that TDD-LTE, which is an alternative LTE technology, is expected to see increased adoption in the US, China, Australia, Middle East, Northern and Eastern Europe, as well as Southwest Asia.

This makes seamless handover between FDD-LTE and TDD-LTE networks a critical feature for end-user customers and mobile operators, especially in markets where both technologies are deployed.

Suwon stated that it will launch TDD-LTE devices in other markets during Q3 2013, but did not say where or when it will launch the new dual-mode Galaxy S4 and S4 Mini.

“Samsung continues to accelerate global LTE market deployment, addressing technical challenges faster than anyone else. With today’s TDD/FDD LTE seamless handover devices announcement, Samsung again demonstrates the company’s commitment to driving better, more convenient customer experiences,” said JK Shin, co-CEO and president of the IT & Mobile division of Samsung Electronics.

Shin added: “The first commercially available TDD/FDD seamless handover devices will allow customers to fully enjoy the benefits of fast mobile data communications no matter where they are.”

In related news, Samsung recently unveiled the newest edition to its Exynos range of mobile processors in the Exynos 5420, which is the first ARM-based system-on-a-chip to make use of the six-core Mali-T628 GPU to deliver an enhanced graphics performance.