We're getting all set up here at a convention center in Barcelona.

This is a really interesting setup in the auditorium. The chairs are all seated around a giant four-sided stage. And there's a Gear VR at every seat.

If I go dark for 10 minutes or so, it's because I'm checking out the VR. haha

As Shara said, this is a clever setup and one we haven't seen at a live event before.

Almost everything about this Samsung presser is infinitely better than years past.

We also have Ethernet hookups! And power! Which means there shouldn't be any connection issues that I've gotten used to at tech events.

This year’s launch is key for Samsung. The company has been counting on its flagship devices to revitalize consumer interest in smartphones, but so far, that’s not happening. The hope is this year’s phone, the Galaxy S7, has enough new features -- and maybe even some old features -- to get consumers reaching for their wallets.

Samsung has already hinted at some additions to the Galaxy S7, including water resistance, a popular feature in 2014’s Galaxy S5 that didn’t make it to last year’s Galaxy S6. Rumors also suggest the return of expandable microSD storage, letting you boost the number of photos and other items you can store on your device. Don’t expect major design changes after last year’s big overhaul, though.

When we arrived, a whole battalion of waiters passed out drinks. I grabbed a red wine, which was the worst red wine of my life. Because it was a diet coke. Whoops.

It's also a big show for another reason - it's the first with a new exec in charge of Samsung's mobile business.