Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Lol 30 minutes battery life!!!???

There is a Dixons' tablet coming out. Can't remember what they are branding it under. Not Matsui as they used to with their old consumer electronics. And if I recall there may be a 7 inch and a 10 inch version.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

I'm not so quick to dismiss Samsung, they are a highly successful consumer company, and while this is a new area, I suspect they have experience successfully penetrating new markets (eg. Galaxy S).

I agree the price is high, but it still may be enticing enough to purchase for some -- remember a HUGE proportion of individuals that actually tried the device were very positive. Hands on experience may increase the value of the device in the consumers mind when they actually handle it in-store or try a friends.

This may also be a strategic early adopter price that will be lowered at a later time (eg. black friday promotion), or to limit demand as they ramp up production.

It may be none of the above. But we'll have to see.

It will be interesting to see how the Tab fares in the market, though I'm sure Samsung isn't being merely idealistic when they endeavor to sell 1M Tabs this year.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Here's a spot of good news (if indeed true). It seems as if the Android Gingerbread SDK is rumored to appear next week!
http://www.droiddog.com/android-blog...-up-next-week/

Of course, this must be confirmed in a more official way, but if true, then next version of Android is around the corner.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

I kind of make up my mind 7" is the largest form factor I would take. I may change mind later. I am looking at my 10.1" netbook, it is a bit too big.

bun

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Specs for the Dixons' android tablet out next week.

http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/13/s...-tegra-tablet/

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

That one looks really good, but again, it's 10", which is out of range for me.

Most of the announced Android tablets that are 7" only feature 800x480. The Tab is the only tablet so far that has a 1024x600 res. The moment I hear of a Tegra 2, 3G tablet that is 7" and 1024x600, is the moment that the Tab has some serious competition!

But something tells me that I'll still want the Tab. Beyond the speed, the Tab has many desirable features: battery life, quality screen, top-notch touch-sensor, solid build, and likely outstanding sound fidelity. I have serious doubts that a competitor will be able to top it in those areas.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Hello all maemo fans,

This is my first posting here.

Just want to share experience from one of my friends whoose bought SGS about 3 weeks ago.

He's SGS can't make call or can't reply to a call, even send SMS also imposible due to his unresponsive SGS until today,..getting frustated with his SGS now.

Now I think it's not just N900 which has same kind of problem (as reported by few users here),..

Screenshoot of an Android refuse to served as it should be attached!

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Man! I gotta say that, lately, this thread is about the only reason why I keep coming back to Maemo.org anymore. The rest of the threads are either N900 related (useless to me and my N800) or are full of nothing more than speculation about relatively uninteresting things anymore, given the landscape. This is kinda sad, considering I rather liked a good lot of the people I've run into here. I've been frequenting the Android forums a lot more lately and it just feels like it's a WHOLE lot more about compiling their own kernels, themes, interfaces... hell, whole ROMs. I don't really see that going on here, even on the N900 threads.

I guess I just wish I saw as much optimism and activity about Maemo or MeeGo. I certainly hope that the Tab is all it's cracked up to be so far and thanks for posting all this info. I'm glad I have something to look forward to whenever I do pop in on rare occasion now.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Thanks Dan! I was wondering where you were, but it's nice to hear that you pop by now and then. I'm probably going to be the same. Once I get the Tab, I'm sure that my postings will decrease as I explore other venues of conversation.

I've got a couple of juicy stories coming, so stay tuned!

Heh, perhaps I should just start a blog already ;)

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

First off: welcome to the forum! We're glad to have you aboard!

I'm sorry to hear that your friend's SGS isn't working, but I'm not sure this is the correct thread for that topic. Perhaps you can try a new thread in this forum, or responding to an existing SGS thread.

Best of luck!

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Guess what? GPU Acceleration is coming for Android! Get your Tabs ready!

Once the mighty iPhone4 was the only phone with a buttery-smooth web browser. It was soon matched by the iPad. But it seems as though Android will be getting the same type of performance thanks to the Opera Mini web browser!

http://my.opera.com/chooseopera/blog...id-coming-soon
http://files.myopera.com/EspenAO/fil...le-android.jpg

In a nutshell, the browser uses the GPU inside of your phone/tablet to accelerate performance dramatically! This should mean, buttery-smooth scrolling, zooming, and new UI tricks!

This is the best news that I've heard since the release of the Tab specs. The web browser is arguably *the* most important app on these mobile devices, and the experience matters. Having owned an iPod touch, I can attest that GPU accelerated scrolling is a BIG deal and I'm very pleased that Android is getting the same treatment. A little late, but better late than never!

I would think that it's only a matter of time before the stock browser gets a similar treatment.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Uh oh! It looks like this is the first leak of the fabled Android 3.0!
*warning* this could be hoax.

http://www.androidcentral.com/wednes...pus-android-30
http://images.androidcentral.com/sit...olympus-dl.jpg

This about screen seems to confirm that the Motorola Olympus is toying with the next major iteration of the Android OS that many are looking forward to. The rumors that Android 3 are around the corner may indeed be true!

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Here's a review worth reading on the Tab:
http://www.tbray.org/ongoing/When/20...b-in-my-Pocket

It seems that the author really likes the device. The only complaint that he has is with the hard-to-see capacitive buttons on the device front -- when the back-light isn't on, the buttons are very hard to see.

Other than that, he confirms what I've suspected: that operating at 1024x600 is qualitatively different than at 800x480.

He also confirms that the vast majority of apps run perfectly on the display (and even look better), to calm the concerns that they are merely 'scaled up' versions of other apps. It's actually quite sad that popular media perpetuated this myth.

Any how, check it out!

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

http://www.intomobile.com/2010/10/14...k-price-rumor/

Okay the UK price for the tab is claimed to be £199 on contract and £599 sim free. Don't know how reliable that is. Seems very unlikely now that I will be getting this because £600 is far too high and don't want to be tied to a two year contract. Pity cause it seems like a great device. Not sure what Samsung was thinking.

Will be looking at the black friday sales though. Went to US last year for that and wife wants to go again. So if the prices are reasonable may get it from the US. Only problem is I may end up with the problem I had with N900 which is it got faulty and I have had to courier it to US to get it fixed under warranty. Also problem that the US version does not do voice calls.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

I agree, the price is too high. Even the US version at $649 is more than I typically would have spent. The only reason I am considering this cost is that I can see the cost-benefit of this device for productivity reasons.

However, the increased price is going to make me wait to see if there is a price drop and/or what other competitors are offering. I've waited this long for a 'smartphone', I can wait a little longer.

Samsung would have had my money day 1, if the price was even a little more reasonable (eg. $599 CDN).

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

If that price is right then you can count me out for now.
Maybe £50-£100 but not £199 with a contract. I only hope this is just speculation as there is a lot of competition at the moment and samsung really need a competitive price to compete.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

I think that the largest problem with the Tab isn't it's price, it's that there isn't a low-cost entry version that makes it *seem* as though the price is less.

Although at $649US it is comparable to a similarly spec'd iPad, most people will claim that the iPad is $499 because it *starts* at $499. The price rises steeply from there, but strangely, this is almost wholly ignored.

It's a psychological thing.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

You're right of course, I just felt like this could have been a brave new horizon for samsung, and if they had been really aggressive with the price then perhaps they would have won a significant amount of new customers who then might have chosen samsung again in the future.

Brand loyalty still goes a long way when you have had positive experiences in the past.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Noal, you are wise! You raise a very good point: current Galaxy S customers. This is something that I hadn't considered, but the response to the SGS has been very positive, and I wonder how many owners will be tempted to the point of conversion by the Tab. Will they see it as just a large SGS, or something more?

Brand recognition alone may be able to secure Samsung 1M Tab sales. Of course, this could be less impressive considering that they're selling during the busiest sales period of the year ;).


UNRELATED:
I just had another thought: With the advent of 3G enabled tablets, I wonder if dumb/quasi-smart phones will rise in popularity. Think about it: if you own a tablet that can surf, tweet, blog, sext (or whatever it is that kids are doing these days), better than a smartphone, why would you do these things on a smartphone? I would imagine a phone for really quick operations would be ideal (call/camera/navigation/surf/etc), though for more serious use, a tablet may be ideal.

Many tend to think of it as: "if I have a smartphone, why would I need a tablet." However, the tablets size (~7") may prove to be superior to what a smartphone can do, and thus it may invert to something akin to "I have a tablet, why would I need a smartphone".

What's interesting about this is that Android2 is supposedly destined for non-cutting edge phones. Perhaps Google has foreseen the same speculative trend. If cheap phones (that have good cameras) can do basic tasks in a pinch, tablets suddenly become much more attractive for serious time -- and the N8 becomes a *much* more attractive phone ;).

But even in this scenario, there's a flaw: in order for both devices to have 3G access, you need two data plans. The cheap prepaid plans are somewhat a solution, but it still involves extra spending. The other alternative is to tether, which may prove to be cumbersome, battery draining, and require that you have both devices.

But the solution is very simple: if carriers were to release multiple SIMs locked to a single account, these devices could be WAN connected and only requiring a SINGLE account! The funny thing is, many carriers already do this in so-called 'family' plans or 'shared' plans. A small premium could even be charged for the service that many would gladly pay rather than shelling out and monitoring two separate accounts.

I foresee that the first carrier that implements this type of a structure will be very successful and simultaneously cutting-edge smartphone sales will start to decline in lieu of a good-enough smartphones and tablet combination.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

I could foresee (for US people), using a family share plan on the tablet and phone, and Google Voice. GV is the primary number that others call/sms to. It will forward to both the tablet and the phone. Answer whichever is convenient, call out via GV. This would be fairly cheap if you already have a family plan to start.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

I think you're on to something! As data plans become more and more common more and more services are going to be pushed over the internet instead of relying on separate networks. For example:

Phone: Google Voice & VoIP providers,T-mobile WiFi calling, etc
TV/Movies: Google TV, HULU, Netflix, etc, etc
Radio: Pandora, etc

While I don't see carriers adopting GV for this, I *do* see them offering their own VoIP solutions with similar feature sets, all in an effort to continue to ensnare users. In any case, a high-bandwidth wireless society with a single grid for communication has the potential to change our image of the internet substantially -- especially as more and more types devices become connected (ie. non-human controlled: stoves, cars, toasters, watches, etc).

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

It looks like Angry Birds will be available for the Tab when it arrives!

http://images.androidcentral.com/sit...ds_in_game.png
http://www.androidcentral.com/angry-...android-market

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Just goes to show how quickly things can turn around in the tech industry! Mere months ago, Microsoft had a clear market capitalization lead over Google, and while it's still substantial, with Google's quarterly report, the search giant currently is 'only' $30B away from reaching Microsoft and gaining fast. Oh, and remember that 'tiny' lead that Apple had over Microsoft? It's increased to a $60B gap!
http://www.google.com/finance?q=Goog

I see the Galaxy Tab being a key technology for Google's continued positive earnings. Even though this tablet may be expensive and subsequently may not sell in record numbers, it still is top-of-class and solidifies the notion that Android *does* indeed work well on tablet devices. This is useful for developers to continue growing the market and sets precedent for competing devices in this category (a la, the Nexus One).

Dell, Motorola, Asus, and Acer, are all stepping up to the plate with their offerings soon, which will likely be quality devices as well!

I foresee that tablets will continue to eat away at laptop sales and with only a few serious players in the market (ie. players with marketing muscle, competence, and cash), there's quite a bit of money to be made. MS has screwed the pooch by insisting that Win7 is 'tablet ready' and will likely be late with a competitive offering (but this *could* change), and Apple/RIM are single sku manufacturers (for tablets -- though extremely successful). The market looks primed for Android mass-adoption on the majority of tablets.

The only other company that seems to stand as competition is MeeGo, and while I doubt MeeGo would dominate Android in marketshare, it may not have to be #1 to seriously improve Nokia's bottom line. It remains to be seen how many devices have MeeGo pre-installed. Will Nokia keep it close to their chest, or actively license it to manufacturers? Will a MeeGo tablet entice sitting next to an iPad/PlayBook/Galaxy Tab/Streak?

Disclaimer: This is speculation, and ignorant speculation at that; but it's oh so fun to speculate, isn't it?!

Anyone want to add predictions?

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Here's a thorough video review of the Galaxy Tab:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnF2QiSImdE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VYdT3xBm-js

Warning these two videos are 1 hour long!

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Would love to see a competitive meego tablet. However, I would always prefer an android tablet I think simply because I am likely to stick to meego for my mobile phone. That way I get access to both android and meego apps. If someone releases a super amazing meego app that kills every android tablet (unlikely) then I may do meego tablet and android phone. Thought the Galaxy Tab would be my first tablet but with Samsung's pricing looks much less certain.

We should be getting a view of the 7 inch Dell very soon.

I notice you don't give Palm/HP operating system tablet much of a chance. Have not seen Web OS in action from what I hear it is pretty amazing and with HP backing I would have thought it had as much chance as meego.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

I'm hoping that there's some cross Android/MeeGo development in the future. With Ubuntu being loaded on the tab, there's no reason why MeeGo apps couldn't run on the Tab and vice-versa. In fact, there was a video posted here of a native QT app running in Android!

I'm also very interested in the 7" streak. Although I suspect the price will be right around the Tab because of the 3G, it still may offer something that the Tab doesn't have (Tegra 2!). I'm looking forward to seeing what Dell offers as well.

I have nothing against Palm OS or the rumored HP tab, though I haven't mentioned anything about them because there's zero news at the moment -- and HP has announced at least one Android tablet, so I'm not sure how far along it is. I'm still interested to see it in action, of course, if/when it's released.

Having played with Palm OS, it's neat, but I think people are going a little too crazy comparing OS UIs as OSs. The differences are subtle and many welcome, but it's not life-changing or anything. So long as I can do the things that I want to do, without much annoyance, then the small tweaks, while nice, add less value. It's the law of diminishing returns. I suppose I'm a bit more utilitarian in my priorities.

I might feel different if I had played with the device a little longer, but that's my early synopsis. One thing I, do, like about the UI is the card-esque multi-tasking. But again, it's a nice touch, but not essential.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Here is the official Gameloft Tab promo:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dN5W7oHlV0I

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Here's a quasi-related video showing 10 of the 'top' 3D android games:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=camhlR5pTUo

Some (if not all) of these would be really fun on the Tab!

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Angry Birds is out for android and free (with ads). On the Galaxy Tab's screen, it's awesome, believe me ;)

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

That's adorable! The Tab looks gigantic next to the little one.

Oh, and I believe you! I'm just counting down the time until I have a Tab in hand to experience the wonder which is Angry Birds. :)

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Remember I posted that there was doubt that the Galaxy Tab supported bluetooth HID for external keyboards? It was based on the testimony of a samsung rep..... and completely false.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdNqC3XepLI

Why do people feel compelled to just make things up and state them assertively? Is it a confidence thing?

The Tab does BT keyboards just fine as the video clearly shows.

You can also turn off the screen with the F4 key or F3 for the telephone menu! Very nice.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

I can confirm the Tab works withmy Dell (but it's really a Think Outside) foldable BT keyboard. This thing is getting better and better every day ;)

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

That's AWESOME. This makes it fantastic as laptop replacement for document editing, text editing, or CLI work. Also, if BT mice are supported, you could play a little Kwaak3 (Android Quake3 port)!

I also have a palm fold-able keyboard that I got for $30 on ebay. My keyboard is a little larger but has a dedicated number key row, which is why I purchased this particular model. My only complaint with my BT keyboard is that the built-in stand is to the left and not in the center (which is ideal); but it's not a huge problem. I've tested it and although it was designed for smaller devices, it would support the Tab's size just fine.

I. Can't. Wait.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

Just to follow up, here's kwaak3 on the Galaxy S:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpUl0Zy0Tcg

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

That's been possible with GSM networks since early 00's. Don't know if networks offer it everywhere. In Finland you can get up to five SIMs sharing same account. It usually costs couple euros extra per month (1,90 for me).

I use two SIMs for my HSPA+ data-account (1 for phone and 1 for USB stick).

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

That's AMAZING! I know that they have family/shared plans in North America, but they can be VERY expensive. I would be interested to learn about an affordable option.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

It seems that at least one Android Tablet supports BT mice!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tr2ECbbp5Mk

This is epic news, especially if true for a tablet device with a 1024x600 screen like the Tab. With chrooted Ubuntu installed, this can actually suffice as a netbook replacement, though certain tasks may be too slow to consider. In any event for basic productivity, this is more than adequate with a BT keyboard.

It seems that release notes for the Android Bluetooth stack include a goal for official mouse support in upcoming releases. This would make sense as Android is a potential candidate for Smartbooks.

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

It seems that at least one Android Tablet supports BT mice!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tr2ECbbp5Mk

This is epic news, especially if true for a tablet device with a 1024x600 screen like the Tab. With chrooted Ubuntu installed, this can actually suffice as a netbook replacement, though certain tasks may be too slow to consider. In any event for basic productivity, this is more than adequate with a BT keyboard.

It seems that release notes for the Android Bluetooth stack include a goal for official mouse support in upcoming releases. This would make sense as Android is a potential candidate for Smartbooks.

It seems that the Dell Streak supports BT keyboards and mice!
http://www.mediabistro.com/thinkmobi...iles-too_b7115

I wonder if there's a project that brings this support to other devices?!

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

I see USB on the video, you mean USB mouse and keyboard?

bun

Re: Samsung Galaxy Tab Info Thread
 

I cannot get it installed on the nitdroid. Error message, "Not installed" funny, how clear can it be :(

bun