Samsung continues to expand its range of Android-based tablets with the newly unveiled Galaxy Tab 3, a 7-inch slate designed to compete almost directly with Google’s Nexus 7 and Apple’s iPad mini.
It’s powered by an unknown 1.2 GHz dual-core processor, with either 8GB or 16GB of internal storage and 1GB of RAM. As is common with most mobile devices by Samsung, there’s also a microSD slot for up to 64GB of additional storage.
The WSVGA display is a little underwhelming: the 1024×600 resolution is equal to 169 ppi, compared with 1280×800 pixels (216 ppi) available on the Nexus 7.
The device supports both WiFi and 3G connectivity and comes with a 3-megapixel rear-facing camera, alongside a modest 1.3-megapixel iteration on the front. Both are likely serviceable for quick uploads to Twitter or Instagram, but unlikely to replace your smartphone or compact camera for high-resolution shots.
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The Galaxy Tab 3 runs Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean), albeit with Samsung’s TouchWiz skin and plethora of apps and services plastered on top. This includes Music Hub, Game Hub, Video Hub and Learning Hub, as well as Samsung’s ChatON instant messaging client.
A Li-ion 4,000 mAh battery is nestled inside the chassis; at just 9.9mm thick, it’s a pretty slick-looking device.
Samsung says the WiFi only version will be available globally from the beginning of May, with the WiFi/3G variant following in June.
“The product availability varies by market and will be rolled out gradually,” the company added.
Pricing is yet to be revealed, but given the low-end hardware it should be more affordable than the Galaxy Note 8.0, which launched in the U.S for $399.99 earlier this month.
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