Samsung Electronics has released a device that falls into a new category of product, the manufacturer claims.
According to Samsung, its Galaxy Note merges the functionality of tablets and cellphones. “It is a hybrid device that combines core on-the-go benefits of various mobile devices, while maintaining smartphone portability, to create a whole new user experience,” says Samsung.
The Note runs on Android Gingerbread 2.3 and has a 1.4GHz dual-core processor. According to Samsung, the device's network connection, including HSPA+, Wi-Fi 802.11n and Wi-Fi Direct, enable real-time video streaming and online gaming.
Super-size screen
At 5.3 inches, the company says the Galaxy Note has the largest size with smartphone portability. According to Samsung, this allows consumers do more with the device. It also has an eight-megapixel rear camera and a two-megapixel front camera for video calling.
The company argues that the screen's high-resolution display allows users to view PowerPoint presentations, Web pages, news apps and e-books “comfortably, with minimal scrolling or zooming”. According to Samsung, the split-screen function also minimises the need to switch between applications.
Capture and go
The device also comes with an S Pen, which allows users to capture their ideas on the go, the company says. Paulo Ferreira, head of mobile products and business solutions at Samsung, says the S Pen combines with the Galaxy Note's Amoled screen to allow the user an accurate level of control.
Samsung says the accurate sketching with the S Pen allows users to instantly capture ideas. The device also features an S Memo, which is a multimedia application designed to record user-created content. “Pictures, voice recordings, typed text, handwritten notes or drawings can all be captured via a single application and converted to a 'memo', to be edited, annotated and shared as desired,” Samsung adds.
The company has also released the S Pen SDK to developers, allowing them to create new applications and services incorporating the pen functionality.
Niche market
According to Ambrose, the device will appeal to people who want something that allows work to be done on the move. “In my opinion, it will find applications for business users or creative users who find the pen abilities compelling,” he says.
Ambrose adds it is unlikely that Samsung will have many competitors with this device in the near future. “Very few manufacturers can match the sheer output of Samsung as far as product variations are concerned,” he explains. “Samsung's marketing prowess, along with the super-slim form factor, will in all probability assist the Galaxy Note in carving out a niche for itself,” he adds.
Samsung says the Galaxy Note will retail between R8 499 and R8 999.
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