Samsung Galaxy Tab
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Galaxy S II LTE and Galaxy Tab 8.9 LTE announced, set to debut at IFA
Well, if you thought Samsung was done tweaking the Galaxy S II, you were very mistaken. The Korean company is getting ready to unveil the Galaxy S II LTE at IFA in Berlin this week, alongside an LTE version of its still elusive Galaxy Tab 8.9 -- and we'll be there to get some hands on time. Both devices are sporting an updated dual-core processor running at 1.5GHz, while the S II is also getting a size bump and moving up to a 4.5-inch screen. The Tab remains otherwise unchanged, rocking the same 1200 x 800 screen and super-svelte (8.6mm thick) design. Honestly, we're not sure what else you need to know -- 4G LTE and an over-the-top processor? OK, maybe price and availability would be nice, but you'll just have to make do with some PR for now. Check it out after the break.
Samsung halts Galaxy Tab 10.1 TouchWiz UX updates to prevent bricking issues?
Are you a Galaxy Tab 10.1 owner still waiting to upgrade your slate to TouchWiz UX? Well, prepare to be disappointed -- Samsung has pulled the update. It's remaining tight-lipped on the subject but it looks to be in response to some users experiencing lagging graphics or bricked devices. When Android Police tweeted Samsung's Carla Saavedra she said "(the update) has been temporarily halted to assess progress & ensure it's a positive experience for customers" and said regular service would "resume shortly" but "no specifics were given." We'll keep our eyes on this one, but in the meantime you can read the torrid exchange after the break. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
Did Apple alter photos of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 in its injunction filing?
Previously, on Apple Versus Samsung: Cupertino's finest sued Samsung for making "similar" products -- a legal spectacle that most recently culminated with an injunction blocking the sale of the Galaxy Tab 10.1 across Europe (with one exception). The case hinges on Apple's assertion that Samsung is ripping off its designs, but tech site Webwereld spotted signs that perhaps Apple's claims are exaggerated, and that the outfit might have even gone so far as to alter images of the Galaxy Tab 10.1 to suit its case. The comparison shot you see up there is lifted from page 28 of a filing made by Freshfields Bruckhaus Derringer, Apple's European lawyers. Both devices look pretty identical with an aspect ratio of 4:3 -- except in reality, the Tab has a 16:9 16:10 aspect ratio and is far narrower than Steve's magical slate. Of course, we might never know if this was actually a malicious move on Apple's part -- certainly, Samsung's legal team isn't saying anything. For now, though, if you're game to play armchair attorney, head past the break for a comparison shot of the competing tabs as we actually know and love them. [Thanks, Jack]
OTA TouchWiz update comes to Samsung's Galaxy Tab 10.1 right on schedule
We were there when a select few got their Galaxy Tab 10.1's loaded up with TouchWiz for the very first time, and we gave you a rundown of what to expect from the newly skinned slate. Now the day has finally arrived for all the other owners to get the new software, and Samsung's delivered the OTA update as promised. We grabbed the update ourselves on an untouched Tab, and found that it's a 188MB download -- so be prepared to hurry up and wait a while for your new media-enhanced, widget-happy tablet experience. Once you're done doing the download dance, do let us know how the new UX is treating you in the comments. [Thanks, Michael]
Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 shows up for pre-order at Amazon.co.uk, ships August 11th
Back when we got word of the Galaxy Tab 10.1 making its British debut on August 4th, Samsung told us that our UK brethren could expect its elusive younger sibling, the 8.9, "later in the year." Well, if its recently minted Amazon page is correct, the Galaxy Tab 8.9 will land across the pond just one week after its big brother, on August 11th. The 3G-sporting Android tablet carries a £605 price tag. Considering its stop off at the FCC in June, and the recent appearance of the Retail Mode app, we hope to see the 8.9 stateside sometime soon. Otherwise, it'll be off to the UK for you die-hard Galaxy fans. [Thanks, Jules]
Samsung reveals new Galaxy Tab 10.1 accessories: multimedia dock, HDTV adapter, case, and more
Today's Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 event in NYC wasn't just about software -- okay, it was mostly about software, but the company also unveiled a slew of accessories for its slick Android tablet. High atop the list is a number of new docks for the slate, including a $50 Multimedia Dock, which props the device up in landscape mode while charging it and offering HDMI out. The $80 Ultra Productivity Tool, meanwhile, also charges the device and includes a full-sized keyboard with Android shortcut keys. The $150 Premium Protective case turns the Tab into a makeshift notebook with a full-size Bluetooth keyboard and a hinge that lets the user adjust the tab's viewing angle. A new $40 HDTV adapter gives the tablet full 1080p HDMI output. The company also announced a $40 SD card adapter and a USB adapter for easy accessory input. For $60, Tab owners can pick up the Premium Book Cover, a high end case for the device that lets you prop it up for typing or viewing movies. And somewhere in the distance, you could hear Steve Jobs audibly shudder when the company unveiled a pen stylus for the device. The stylus has an aluminum body and a silicon tip, for when you need to give your fingertips a break. It'll run you $20, and sadly won't include meat.%Gallery-129877%
Apple's complaint over Samsung Galaxy Tab earns ITC review
Apple's "look and feel" patent infringement suit against Samsung has gained the attention of the International Trade Commission (ITC), which has the power to block imports of products if it determines they infringe on patents. According to Bloomberg, the ITC usually takes 15 to 18 months to complete reviews and decide whether or not to block imports. Although the ITC has the power to block imports of products if it determines they violate patents, things rarely reach that point. Instead, the threat of an outright importation embargo usually forces companies to the negotiating table, where millions of dollars in patent licensing fees subsequently change hands. Notably, Samsung is not launching the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 in Australia, though according to AllThingsD the company claims it has nothing to do with Apple issuing a complaint with the Federal Court in that country. Apple has accused Samsung of willfully copying both the iPhone and the iPad in the hardware design of the Galaxy line, and a casual glance at the products does indeed show many design similarities. On closer inspection the differences between the companies' products become much clearer, however, so it may take the courts a long time to determine whether Samsung's products violate Apple's patents or not.
University of Southern Mississippi hands out Galaxy Tabs to honors students (video)
Being an honors student at the University of Southern Mississippi just got a little more awesome. The college is hooking up its highest performers with brand new Galaxy Tab 10.1s, pre-loaded with software from the popular (and widely loathed) Blackboard educational portal. As you'd expect, syllabi, textbooks, and grades can all be easily pulled up by students in the Honors College, McNair Scholars, Southern Style, and Gulf Coast programs. With only a 1,000 going out now, the initiative stops shy of similar pushes by the Webb School and Seton Hill where everybody gets an iPad. And, while the educational value of tablets is still debatable, at least they'll be able to read Engadget in style. Check out Sammy's guitar-laden promo video after the break.
Galaxy Tab 10.1 for Verizon, hands-on with the new 4G speed king
By now, you should be familiar with the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1. We've done countless hands-ons with the super-svelte Honeycomb slate, and even reviewed it... twice! Now it's back, again, and this time its packing an LTE radio tuned to the frequencies of a little company known as Verizon. Outside of a few tiny cosmetic changes -- the brushed, gray plastic back and the rumored Micro SIM slot up top, nothing else has changed. We won't waste too much time rehashing what you already know, but we figured it was worth firing up the latest version, which officially went on sale today, and putting that 4G antenna to the test. You know the routine, keep on keepin' on after the break. %Gallery-129434%
Samsung's LTE-equipped Galaxy Tab 10.1 comes to Verizon on July 28th
It's a Galaxy Tab 10.1, but with 4G. No, not that 4G. Not even that 4G. This 4G. You know, the LTE variety, being spread around like Christmas ham by the folks at Verizon Wireless. Cosmetically, the slate offered up by Big Red is no different than the WiFi-only model that we peeked earlier in the year, but the LTE radio tucked within obviously makes it the one to get if you're looking for top-tier speeds on the go. VZW will actually hawk two separate models LTE Tab 10.1 models (in white or grey), both of which are priced outrageously with two-year agreements: $529.99 for the 16GB model and $629.99 for the 32GB model. That's a pretty penny (to say the least!) given the albatross that is a 24-month contract, and those who'd rather provide their own connectivity can opt for the WWAN-less Metallic Grey edition for $499.99 (16GB). Access plans start at $30 per month for 2GB, with $50 per period getting you 5GB, or $80 getting you 10GB (no mention of tethering, unfortunately). Your pickup date? Two days from now, or July 28th for the calendar-challenged. %Gallery-129156%
T-Mobile looks to go back-to-back, offers Angels fans tablet rentals
Looking to enhance that in-person baseball experience with one more technological distraction? Well, the wait is over, thanks to T-Mobile and its new tablet rental program at Angel Stadium in Anaheim. The company will not only offer the slates to patrons, but it'll also push out customized content to enhance the superfan's game-day stat overload -- something we've seen before over at Safeco Field. Fans get to choose between a T-Mobile G-Slate or a Samsung Galaxy Tab, and the rental will only set you back a cool Hamilton, which is likely easier on the wallet than a decked-out hotdog. In addition to the tablet, you'll also get your game-day program, a library of magazines for browsing between innings, T-Mobile TV and network access. So if you're the casual baseball fan who scored free tickets, you can work on your Cut the Rope skills for a few hours... looking up to catch the home run jacks, of course.
Verizon's Galaxy Tab 10.1 may pack Micro SIMs, force Charge owners to break out the scissors
There were some mumblings that T-Mobile's OG Galaxy Tab would come packing a Micro SIM, but that rumor never came to pass. Now a similar tale is being spun about Verizon's LTE-sporting Galaxy Tab 10.1. Android Central got its green, fingerless arms on a purported image of Big Red training docs that reveals the Honeycomb slate will not use the standard-sized 4G SIMs found in the Thunderbolt, Droid Charge, Revolution -- instead, it will come stuffed with a tiny 3FF card. The company has already made it abundantly clear that there will be no LTE roaming with its devices, perhaps now it's trying to discourage users from swapping a single SIM between a phone and tablet to save cash. Or, maybe Samsung chose the format due to space constraints. Guess we'll just have to wait and see -- which hopefully won't be much longer.
Sprint updating the Samsung Galaxy Tab with Gingerbread on July 5
It's hard out there for a Samsung Galaxy Tab owner, watching Honeycomb slates hit the market by the bushel, with a lucky few stepping up to Android 3.1 and its resizeable widgets. Sprint, at least, is still giving the 'ol Tab some love -- according to an anonymous tipster, the Now Network will push out an update to Gingerbread, something Tab owners overseas have already been enjoying. The upgrade's expected to roll out starting July 5th, and will include not just Android 2.3, but a step up to HID Bluetooth as well. Oh, and while it's at it, Sprint will also release a fix for a bug in the Samsung Transform that has interfered with PRL and data profile updates. Sounds like as fine a way as any to beat the post-holiday weekend blues.
Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 4G up for pre-order from Verizon, finally
For a device so focused on speed, the 4G version of Samsung's Galaxy Tab 10.1 has sure taken its sweet time. The LTE-enabled Honeycomb tablet, which was initially set for a June 8th pre-order, is finally available through Verizon's site -- well, finally available for pre-order, that is. The slick Android device should ship within four to six weeks, according to the carrier, and will run you either $530 or $630, depending on whether you go in for the 16- or 32GB variety -- oh yeah, and then there's the two-year data plan. Whoever said the waiting is the hardest part clearly never signed a mobile data contract.
Samsung reveals 'premium accessory suite' for Galaxy Tab 10.1, includes premium prices
Loving your Galaxy Tab 10.1 but just itching for some accessories? Samsung knows you are, and today helpfully unveiled a "premium accessory suite" to soothe your jones for both add-ons and premium prices. The collection (parts of which appeared earlier on Sammy's German site) includes a full-size keyboard dock ($70) and a multimedia dock ($35) enabling HDMI pass-through – you can have Tab video on your TV, as long as you buy the separate HDTV adapter ($30). You have your choice of cases, as well: a book cover model ($60) you can leave on while using the tablet, or a leather pouch edition ($30) that is, you guessed it, a leather pouch. A few miscellaneous items round out the collection, including various chargers, a conductive stylus and the already-released USB adapter. The company also promises a Bluetooth keyboard and SD card adapter to come "mid-summer," just in time to ease your next bout of premium-accessory fever. [Update: Replaced keyboard image. Thanks for the feedback, everyone.]
Silhouette-spoiling USB host adapter arrives for the Galaxy Tab 10.1
Hot on the heels of Honeycomb 3.1 and its USB hosting capabilities, Samsung's US site has just listed a $20 USB adapter for the Galaxy Tab 10.1. The stubby add-on won't do anything for your Tab's slender figure, but it will convert the Apple-esque 30-pin connector into full USB and thereby open up a world of connectivity to "keyboards, mice, thumb drives" and potentially any other USB device that gets Android support. Unfortunately, the adapter is out of stock and listed as "back order", but after waiting this long for USB hosting on Android tablets we can probably hold out a little longer.
Elusive Galaxy Tab 8.9 hitting Nordic countries in September
Samsung today issued a slew of press releases announcing the arrival of new tablets in Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and Norway. The news, naturally, focuses on the company's flashy Galaxy Tab 10.1, which will arrive in those countries in August. What's really interesting here, however, is the mention of the more compact Galaxy Tab 8.9, which has been out of the spotlight as of late, reportedly due to screen problems. The issues (if there were indeed any) have apparently been resolved, and the 8.9 is set to be released in the aforementioned Nordic territories in September -- either that or it's going to take an extra month to shave an inch and change off of those remaining 10.1 models.
Samsung Galaxy Tab spreads wings, flies to premium seats on American Airlines
Move on over, Delta. The 200 iPads at your JFK terminal may entertain some folks waiting to board, but before the year's out American Airlines will start switching out 6,000 in-flight entertainment systems with Samsung 10.1-inch Galaxy Tabs. Sammy will be customizing the Honeycomb slates with flight related "features" including AA's streaming service mentioned last month, and possibly even adding "expanded memory" for the devices -- no word on how, though. Panasonic's console has some competition it seems. It's notable that these will only be available in "premium cabins" on a handful of long-distance routes, and unless you're flying in a 767-200, WiFi access -- a separate purchase, by the way -- may not be available. We've embedded some PR with the details for all you jet-setting tablet enthusiasts after the break.
Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 Limited Edition gets Android 3.1 update, that much cooler
Nothing like a little software update to get the weekend started right... right? Just days after Samsung shipped the first consumer units of its Galaxy Tab 10.1 (you can find our review here), the Android 3.1 update that first struck Motorola's Xoom is now gracing the Limited Edition models that were handed out at Google I/O 2011. We've confirmed here at Engadget HQ that the update is indeed percolating, with Americans needing to simply register with Samsung (select "UK" in the options list, it's cool) and proceed to the Software Update within the Settings pane. If you've applied the update, let us know how things went in comments below; if you ran into any issues, give those More Coverage links a look. Either way: lucky! [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
Vodafone UK bids adieu to Galaxy Tab 10.1v, likes its slates skinny
Back in February, it looked like Vodafone UK was more than happy to get its hands on the original Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1v, but with the impending UK release of a younger, slimmer model, the carrier is giving the 10.1v the boot. According to some helpful tipsters, customers who showed early interest in the thicker version of the tablet have received an "important update" from Vodafone saying, "We've decided to add the slimmer Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 to our range, which will now take the place of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1v." The landing page for the original 10.1 has also been removed from Vodafone's website. Looks like it's a sad day for our friends across the pond who like their tabs with a little extra cushion, not to mention an 8 megapixel camera. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
