Samsung brings smaller version of Galaxy S4 to US

Samsung is making a smaller version of its flagship Galaxy S4 phone -- the Galaxy S4 mini -- available in the United States next month.

The Galaxy S4 mini's screen is 4.3 inches diagonally, compared with 5 inches for the regular Galaxy S4. Nonetheless, the mini version is still larger than the latest iPhones.

The smaller, cheaper mobile phone features a 1.7 gigahertz dual-core processor and 8-megapixel camera. The Galaxy S4 mini weights about 3.8 ounces and runs on Android 4.2.2 (Jelly Bean).

Phone companies have been making their flagship devices in multiple sizes to appeal to a broad range of consumers. Some may prefer a smaller device that fits nicely in a pocket, while others want the larger text that comes with the bigger screen.

"Samsung continues to provide a wide range of products to fit consumers' needs," Gregory Lee, president of Samsung Mobile, said in a press release.

All four national carriers will sell the Galaxy S4 mini. Prices weren't announced, but they are likely to be about $100 with a two-year agreement. Samsung says a software update will make the mini smartphone compatible with its new Galaxy Gear computerized watch.

Samsung originally unveiled the Galaxy S4 mini on May 30.