Samsung announces the 'versatile' Galaxy Tab A (8.0") tablet
Samsung has announced an upcoming tablet, the latest addition to the Galaxy range. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A (8.0") -- also known as the Galaxy Tab A (2017) -- has been "designed for the whole family" and is a budget tablet that you won't mind sharing it with, or giving to, the kids.
The specs are, generally speaking, nothing to get too excited about, but that's not the aim of this tablet. The metal body gives an air of quality to what Samsung describes as "an everyday, versatile tablet," and a 5,000mAh battery can power the device for up to 14 hours. Although this is pitched as a family device, there is a strong focus on children.
The tablet will ship with Android 7.1.1, and Samsung is not saying whether there is an Oreo upgrade in the pipeline. Multiple accounts can be set up so kids and parents can keep their apps and settings separate, and Parental Controls are available to place limits on what can be done. A free three-month subscription to YouTube Red is included for ad-free access to YouTube Red content.
Samsung says:
Kids Mode features exciting games, videos and content from partners including 5,000 videos and games from The LEGO Group as well as a social network themed LEGO Life app with exclusive sticker content. The Galaxy Tab A also comes with a new native block coding app called Crocro Adventure; with this app, kids will be able to learn about block coding and programming through fun games teaching valuable logical thinking skills. Kids Mode now also features Value Pack options so users can download highly popular apps like LEGO Batman: Beyond Gotham, LEGO Ninjago: Shadow of Ronin, Toca Hair Salon 3 and BRIO World -- Railway at no cost.
Here are the specs as shared by Samsung:
- Dimensions: 212.1 x 124.1 x 8.9 mm
- Weight: 360g (Wi-Fi), 364g (LTE)
- Display: 8.0-inch WXGA (1280 x 800, 16:10) TFT, 480nits
- Processor: Quad Core 1.4GHz, Qualcomm Snapdragon 425
- OS: Android 7.1.1
- Memory: 2GB (RAM) + 32GB, Micro SD up to 256GB
- Camera: Front: 5MP FF, Rear: 8MP AF with Flash
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Port: USB 2.0 (Type C)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth v4.2
- Color: Black, Silver
The Samsung Galaxy Tab A (2017) goes on sale in the US on November 1. It will be available direct from Samsung for $229.99.