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Samsung Unveils New Galaxy Tab S12 Series and SmartTag3
Samsung’s portfolio has been significantly bolstered with the introduction of the powerful Galaxy Tab S12 series tablets, marking a substantial leap in performance and bringing advanced Galaxy AI features. Simultaneously, the compact SmartTag3 tracker has undergone a complete metamorphosis and, surprisingly, gained compatibility with the iOS ecosystem. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the latest innovations from the Korean tech giant.
Samsung’s Latest Tablet Lineup: Galaxy Tab S12 Series
The new Samsung tablets are designed for the most demanding users, targeting the premium segment with top-tier specifications and a corresponding price point. The series includes the Galaxy Tab S12+ and the ultra-premium Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra.
Flagship Displays and Sleek Design
Both tablets feature stunning Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with a peak brightness of up to 1600 nits. They also incorporate Vision Booster technology, which intelligently adjusts the display to changing lighting conditions for optimal viewing.
- Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra: This model boasts a massive 14.6-inch screen within an incredibly slim chassis, measuring just 5.1 mm thick and weighing 692g (Wi-Fi version).
- Galaxy Tab S12+: A slightly more compact alternative, the S12+ features a 12.6-inch display, is 5.3 mm thick, and weighs 553g (Wi-Fi version). Despite its smaller dimensions, it offers the same robust capabilities as its Ultra counterpart.
Enhanced Performance and Powerful Battery Life
At the core of these new devices is the Mediatek Dimensity 9500 processor, manufactured using a 3nm lithography process. This advanced chipset delivers significant performance gains over previous generations. Compared to last year’s Tab S11 Ultra, the new Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra offers:
- 19% faster CPU (Central Processing Unit)
- 17% more efficient GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
- A staggering 61% more powerful NPU (Neural Processing Unit) for AI computations
Memory and storage configurations are generous:
- Galaxy Tab S12+: Comes with 12GB of RAM and options for 256GB or 512GB of internal storage.
- Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra: Available in 12GB/256GB and 12GB/512GB variants, as well as a top-tier configuration with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage for files and applications.
Battery life is also impressive:
- The Tab S12 Ultra houses an 11,600 mAh battery and supports 45W Super Fast Charging 2.0.
- The Galaxy Tab S12+ features a slightly smaller, yet still substantial, 10,600 mAh battery, also supporting the same 45W Super Fast Charging standard.
Samsung promises up to 23 hours of video playback for the S12 Ultra and up to 21 hours for the S12+. Both tablets also boast an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, providing peace of mind for everyday use.
A notable improvement is the enhanced audio quality, thanks to four speakers with support for four-channel sound. Each tablet comes standard with the S Pen stylus. By attaching an optional keyboard (such as the Book Cover Keyboard or Keyboard Pro), these tablets can seamlessly transform into powerful mobile workstations. Interested in learning more about the latest in Samsung’s tablet offerings? Check out more details on the Galaxy Tab S12 series.
Galaxy AI, Gemini Integration, and Included Software Perks
Samsung is heavily investing in AI features. The new devices include a dedicated Galaxy AI Key, allowing instant access to the AI assistant. The updated multi-tasking mode enhances productivity, enabling users to work with three split windows simultaneously—for example, opening Samsung Notes, a lecture video, and Google Gemini. Purchasers will also receive a free 6-month trial of the Google AI Pro package.
In addition, Samsung bundles a suite of applications and benefits valued at approximately $600 USD:
- Adobe Photoshop: Optimized for the S Pen on Android tablets for the first time (4-month trial period).
- Notability: A pre-installed application offering intelligent AI note-taking tools.
- Other valuable applications: Clip Studio Paint, Goodnotes, LumaFusion, and Notion.
These devices are committed to long-term support, with 7 years of system updates and security patches, ensuring longevity and continued performance.
Pricing for the Galaxy Tab S12 Series Tablets
The Galaxy Tab S12+ and Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra will be available in elegant gray and silver finishes. Sales in select markets are set to begin on October 7th.
Here are the approximate starting prices for the new Samsung Galaxy Tab S12+ tablets (note: actual prices may vary by region and retailer):
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S12+ 12GB/256GB, Wi-Fi version – approximately $1,400 USD
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S12+ 12GB/256GB, 5G version – approximately $1,550 USD
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S12+ 12GB/512GB, Wi-Fi version – approximately $1,600 USD
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S12+ 12GB/512GB, 5G version – approximately $1,750 USD
And the approximate starting prices for the various configurations of the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra:
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra 12GB/256GB, Wi-Fi version – approximately $1,650 USD
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra 12GB/256GB, 5G version – approximately $1,800 USD
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra 12GB/512GB, Wi-Fi version – approximately $1,850 USD
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra 12GB/512GB, 5G version – approximately $2,010 USD
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra 16GB/1TB, Wi-Fi version – approximately $2,275 USD
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra 16GB/1TB, 5G version – approximately $2,440 USD
According to Samsung, these new tablets are primarily aimed at users currently owning an S10 series or older, those looking to upgrade from an A series tablet, or first-time tablet buyers. Owners of the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra models are less likely to find compelling reasons to upgrade, given the incremental enhancements.
Introducing the Samsung SmartTag3: The Third Iteration
The Galaxy SmartTag3 represents the latest evolution in Samsung’s lineup of compact trackers. This iteration brings significant changes compared to its predecessor, most notably in its design and dimensions.
Redesigned Form Factor and Enhanced Durability
The SmartTag3 moves away from the integrated loop design, adopting a compact, pill-shaped casing. This new form factor makes it much easier to attach to keychains, holders, or pet collars. The new model is approximately 35% smaller and 33% lighter than the SmartTag2.
Internally, the device has been completely re-engineered. The SmartTag3 features a new processor and a revamped Bluetooth module. It operates on a CR2032 battery, which, according to Samsung, can last up to 550 days, extending to 790 days in power-saving mode. The casing is also IP67-rated for dust and water resistance.
How the SmartTag3 Tracks Your Valuables
The device supports two advanced technologies for precise location tracking:
- Bluetooth 6.0 Channel Sounding: This technology enables a compass view feature, allowing users to locate the tag from up to 60 meters away—three times further than before. This functionality is also available on older devices without Ultra-Wideband (UWB) support.
- UWB (Ultra-Wideband): For close-range tracking, UWB provides highly accurate direction and distance information, pinpointing the tag’s location with an accuracy of 10-30 cm.
When the SmartTag3 is out of range of your phone, its location is updated via the vast Galaxy Find network, which comprises over 900 million Galaxy devices worldwide. The location refreshes every 2–5 minutes. Samsung states that the previous SmartTag could take 10–15 minutes to register that a device had moved out of range, highlighting the efficiency gains of the new model’s lower power consumption and updated components. For more information on Samsung’s connected devices, you might also be interested in the latest on upcoming Galaxy A series phones.
Key New Features and App Enhancements
Perhaps the most significant new feature is iOS support. This means families or groups of friends can now jointly track and share tags, even if some members use iPhones. Additionally, the button on the SmartTag3’s casing can be programmed within smart home systems, for example, to open a garage door.
Other noteworthy features include:
- Zone Notifications: Receive alerts when an item, pet, or person carrying the tag enters or leaves a designated area.
- Location History: Review past locations of your tracked items.
- Motion Detection Alerts: Get notified if the tag detects movement.
- Location Sharing: Easily share the tag’s location with others, such as a family member taking your dog for a walk.
- Extended Pet Information in SmartThings: Access detailed insights about your pet, such as whether they are sleeping, walking, or on a walk.
Pricing and Availability of the Galaxy SmartTag3
The SmartTag3 will be available in classic black and white colors. Several accessories will be offered, including multi-colored silicone cases, a loop case, a collar attachment, and a clip-on pendant. A bicycle mount, designed to fit between the water bottle cage and the frame, will also be available.
The SmartTag3 will be priced at approximately $42 USD, regardless of color. Its release is anticipated later this year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Galaxy Tab S12 series features significant upgrades including the new Mediatek Dimensity 9500 processor (with 19% faster CPU, 17% more efficient GPU, and 61% more powerful NPU), brighter Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, larger battery capacities, IP68 water and dust resistance, and enhanced quad-channel audio. It also heavily integrates Galaxy AI features and comes with extended software support.
The SmartTag3 boasts a completely redesigned, more compact (35% smaller, 33% lighter), and pill-shaped form factor. It features a new processor and Bluetooth module for faster location refreshes (every 2-5 minutes) and extended battery life (up to 790 days). Crucially, it now supports iOS devices, allowing cross-platform tracking and sharing.
The Galaxy Tab S12 tablets come with a dedicated Galaxy AI Key for instant assistant access, an updated multi-tasking mode supporting three split windows, and a free 6-month trial of the Google AI Pro package. They also include AI-enhanced applications like Notability and an S Pen-optimized Adobe Photoshop trial.
The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra, with its 11,600 mAh battery, offers up to 23 hours of video playback. The Galaxy Tab S12+, with its 10,600 mAh battery, provides up to 21 hours of video playback. Both support 45W Super Fast Charging 2.0.
Source: Samsung
Opening photo: Samsung / Press Materials
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