Samsung Electronics on Tuesday is unveiling its first phone that uses propriety software, rather than Google Android.
The Samsung Z is the first commercially available smartphone to use the new Tizen operating system. The South Korean giant will show off the phone in San Francisco at its third-annual Tizen Developer conference, which runs through Wednesday.
"The Samsung Z integrates the power and adaptability of the Tizen platform, enabling users to browse the web faster and utilize applications more effectively," Samsung's DJ Lee said in a news release Monday.
The launch is viewed as way to cut Samsung's dependency on Google and its Android software. It also means that consumers will have choices beyond the dominant Android and Apple iOS operating systems.
Read MoreApple broadens its appeal with Wall Street
Samsung said the new phone offers a faster start-up time and improved memory management. It uses a built-in fingerprint sensor for security and its "ultra-power saving mode" keeps it operable at minimal battery levels in emergencies.
The lightweight phone comes in black or gold and features a slim, angular design. It will be available from the third quarter of 2014 in Russia, before expanding into other markets. Samsung did not disclose the price.
Read MoreBling bling: New smartphone, yours for $10,000
Despite its move away from Google, Samsung remains the clear number one vendor for the Android platform, according independent research firm Strategy Analytics. However, among the tier-two brands, there is a growing wave of Chinese players picking up market share, led by Huawei, Lenovo and Xiaomi.
