Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.0
| Industry | Consumer electronics |
|---|---|
| Founded | March 1, 1938 in Daegu, South Korea |
| Headquarters | Suwon , South Korea |
| Products | Smartphones, tablets, televisions, home appliances |
Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.0 Overview
The Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.0, commonly referred to as the Samsung Galaxy Tab, is a compact mini-tablet running on the Android platform, developed and manufactured by Samsung Electronics. It was officially launched on 5 November 2010, following its initial announcement at the IFA event held in Berlin on 2 September 2010. This device marked Samsung’s inaugural entry into the Android tablet market.
Featuring a 7-inch (180 mm) TFT-LCD touchscreen display, the Galaxy Tab is equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity and powered by a 1.0 GHz ARM Cortex-A8 processor, specifically the Exynos 3110 chip, also known by its codename "Hummingbird". The tablet incorporates the Swype keyboard input system for enhanced typing efficiency. Photography capabilities include a 3.2-megapixel autofocus rear camera with LED flash and a front-facing 1.3-megapixel camera designed for video calls.
Originally shipped with Android 2.2 "Froyo", the operating system could be upgraded to 2.3. The device supports voice communication functions, allowing use as a speakerphone or through wired or Bluetooth headsets, although this feature was not available on models distributed in the United States. Users can also install video calling applications such as Tango or Skype to supplement voice call options.
Hardware
The tablet features a plastic casing that contributes to its lighter weight compared to metal-cased competitors, tipping the scales at 380 g (0.84 lb).
The GT-P1000 variant utilizes a 7-inch Super TFT display rather than the AMOLED screen found in Samsung’s Galaxy S smartphones. This display offers a resolution of 1024×600 pixels and incorporates mDNIE (Mobile Digital Natural Images Engine) technology. Internal flash memory options include 2 GB for North American CDMA models, as well as 16 GB or 32 GB variants, all expandable via a microSD card slot supporting up to 32 GB. The device is powered by the Exynos 3110 (also called Hummingbird) system-on-chip, which integrates a 1.0 GHz ARM Cortex A8 CPU alongside either 512 MB, 444 MB, or 640 MB of RAM, paired with a PowerVR SGX540 graphics processor.
In contrast, the Wi-Fi-only GT-P1010 model is built on an OMAP 3630 SoC platform. It also runs a 1.0 GHz Cortex A8 CPU but employs a PowerVR SGX530 GPU, which delivers approximately half the graphical performance of the GT-P1000's SGX540 chip. Additionally, the GT-P1010 lacks support for TV output. Samsung has released an update to Android 3.0 Honeycomb exclusively for select regions such as the United Kingdom.
Equipped with two cameras, the tablet includes a rear-facing 3.2 MP sensor accompanied by an LED flash and a front-facing 1.3 MP camera designed for video calls (with Verizon’s model featuring a slightly enhanced 3 MP rear camera). The front camera supports autofocus functionality. The rear camera offers features like automatic image stitching of up to eight photos and various capture modes including single shot, continuous shooting, panorama, and self-timer. It can also automatically capture images when it detects a smile. Geotagging is enabled through the built-in GPS receiver.
Connectivity options encompass GPS, 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 3.0, and support for hands-free calling via Bluetooth or headphone connections. Cellular compatibility includes GSM, CDMA, and HSPA (HSUPA) networks.
The device uses a proprietary 30-pin docking and charging port unique to Samsung products. Although visually similar to the standard PDMI connector—a non-proprietary alternative to Apple’s dock—this connector is incompatible with other manufacturers’ accessories and requires Samsung-specific cables and peripherals.
Samsung claims that the tablet’s 4000 mAh battery provides up to seven hours of video playback or ten hours of talk time.
For GSM models, there is an externally accessible SIM card slot; removing the SIM while powered on causes an automatic reboot. AT&T and T-Mobile versions come with a micro SIM inside an adapter for standard SIM slots. Outside the US, Galaxy Tabs with phone capabilities can use this slot for a 3G data-only SIM if voice services are unnecessary.
An optional RCA connector allows video output to external displays such as televisions; however, the tablet’s own screen remains active during use but can be dimmed through backlight control applications.
Software
The device operates on a customized iteration of Android Froyo, which can be upgraded to 2.3, featuring Samsung’s proprietary TouchWiz interface. According to Samsung, most Android applications designed for versions 2.2 through 3.0, following Google's development standards, should adapt effectively to the Galaxy Tab’s larger display. Compatibility has been confirmed with various multimedia formats including Adobe Flash 10.1, DivX,[1]. The touchscreen technology is powered by Atmel’s maXTouch capacitive multi-touch controller, enabling responsive touch input and multitasking capabilities.
The Galaxy Tab supports a range of productivity and communication tools such as calendar, email, and instant messaging apps. It includes a dedicated launcher for e-reading applications: launching PressDisplay for newspapers, Kobo for e-books, and Zinio for magazines. For handling Microsoft Office documents, the tablet comes pre-installed with the Android version of ThinkFree Office Mobile.
Functionality extends to tethering features, allowing the tablet to serve as a Wi-Fi hotspot for up to five connected devices. Contacts can be integrated with Facebook profiles when linked via phone numbers, and addresses stored on the device can be accessed directly through Google Maps.
The Tab supports playback of high-definition video in formats such as DivX, XviD, MPEG4, H.263, and H.264. It can stream content from platforms like YouTube or play files stored locally. Additionally, it offers 720p video output to external displays through composite video or HDMI connections using an optional docking station.
Text input options include the Swype keyboard, which allows users to draw paths across letters on a virtual keyboard, alongside standard predictive typing via XT9. The TouchWiz interface on this model enables users to capture screenshots directly; however, Honeycomb tablets lacking TouchWiz require rooting or SDK installation to perform screen captures.
Access to hundreds of thousands of mobile applications—most of which are free—is provided through Google Play. The device also incorporates AllShare software that facilitates multimedia file sharing for professional presentations or educational purposes and can function as a remote control exclusively for Samsung products. When paired with a Wi-Fi AllShare Cast Hub, the tablet enables seamless connection with non-Samsung USB-enabled devices, allowing content control and remote operation from the tablet itself.
Upgrades
In May 2011, reports indicated that Android Honeycomb 3.0 had become accessible in Italy, with plans for distribution to additional countries.[2]
By February 2012, the Honeycomb 3.2 version of Android was released.[3] The Tab officially supported both Froyo and Honeycomb. Furthermore, it is possible to unofficially upgrade the device to CyanogenMod 13, which is based on Android 6.0.
Security and privacy
The Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.0 incorporates a variety of security and privacy tools designed to safeguard user information. Users have the ability to control app permissions, limiting access to features such as the camera, microphone, and location services, thereby ensuring apps only utilize data explicitly permitted.[4] Privacy options allow users to manage personal information by adjusting advertising preferences and controlling diagnostic data sharing. Additionally, users can delete their personal data and deactivate customization features if desired. The tablet supports adding, restricting, or deleting user profiles, which facilitates secure device sharing by enabling separate accounts with limited access to specific apps and functions.[5] Samsung continuously issues security patches to fix vulnerabilities and maintain device integrity, exemplified by the October 2023 update for the Galaxy Tab S7 series. Collectively, these measures contribute to protecting personal data and delivering a secure user environment.[6]
Early impressions and reviews
Initial reviews were generally positive,[7] positioning the Tab as a formidable competitor against the iPad.[8][9][10] Some reviewers noted "rough edges" that were expected to be addressed through future software updates.[11]
Africa
- South Africa began retailing the Tablet on 2 November 2010.
- On 5 November 2010, Etisalat Nigeria became the first mobile operator in Africa to introduce the Galaxy Tab.
- Angola launched the Samsung Galaxy Tab 7" on 1 December 2010 through Movicel, coinciding with their transition of the GSM network to 900 MHz from CDMA 800 MHz.
- On 6 December 2010, Vodafone Ghana officially introduced the Galaxy Tab.
- During 2010, MTN Uganda made the Galaxy Tab available in their market.
Asia
The Samsung Galaxy Tab was made available contract-free in both Indonesia and Thailand. In contrast, in Malaysia, it was offered under contract by Maxis. The device also launched in the Philippines through a contract with Smart, while remaining accessible without contract for GSM users.
South Korea
Originally set for release on 14 October, the Samsung Galaxy Tab’s launch in South Korea was postponed to 3 November 2010.
India
Samsung introduced the Galaxy Tab to the Indian market on 10 November 2010.
Singapore
On 13 November 2010, the Samsung Galaxy Tab became available exclusively via Singtel in Singapore.
Pakistan
The Galaxy Tab reached Pakistan on 22 December 2010, offered both contract-free through Mobilink and openly in retail outlets.
Japan
Released on 26 November 2010, the Samsung Galaxy Tab in Japan was sold under contract with NTT Docomo.
Middle East
The official launch of the Samsung Galaxy Tab in the Middle East took place at Dubai’s GITEX Shopper event, recognized as the largest gathering of leading ICT retailers and suppliers in the region.
Australia
On 8 November 2010, the Samsung Galaxy Tab became available in Australia. Consumers could purchase it without a contract from various major national retailers or opt for contract plans through Vodafone, Telstra, Optus, and other carriers.
Brazil
The Samsung Galaxy Tab became available in Brazil on 26 November 2010. The Brazilian model appears to operate at a higher speed, featuring a 1.2 GHz processor and compatibility with both analog VHF and UHF PAL-M as well as digital ISDB-T television signals.
Europe
In Europe, the Galaxy Tab launched in Germany and Poland on 11 October 2010. The United Kingdom received its version on 1 November 2010, while Spain and many other European nations saw releases later in the same year.
United States
In the United States, the Galaxy Tab was distributed through carriers including T-Mobile, Sprint, AT&T, U.S. Cellular, and Verizon.
T-Mobile introduced the SGH-T849 Galaxy Tab on 10 November 2010.
Verizon began offering the SCH-I800 Galaxy Tab starting 11 November 2010. Notably, Verizon's edition features a textured black back cover, differing from the smooth plastic backs found on the versions from T-Mobile, Sprint, and AT&T. Both Verizon and Sprint initially disabled Bluetooth Human Interface Device (HID) functionality, preventing use with Bluetooth keyboards, mice, and similar peripherals; however, subsequent software updates resolved this limitation for both providers.
Sprint launched their Galaxy Tab offering on 14 November 2010.
AT&T made the Tab available on 21 November 2010 without requiring a contract.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved a Wi-Fi–only variant of the Galaxy Tab. Prior to its official release, some advertisements for this Wi-Fi–only model appeared prematurely in Best Buy promotions.
The Wi-Fi–only version was officially released on 11 April 2011.
Sales
One week following its initial launch, Samsung reported sales of approximately 600,000 units. By 4 December, just two months after its debut, sales had reached the one million mark. However, a Lenovo executive contested these figures, claiming that only about 20,000 units had been sold out of one million shipped Galaxy Tabs. In January 2011, Samsung announced shipments totaling two million units to retail outlets. Later, in August 2012, during a patent infringement lawsuit against Apple, official sales data revealed that total Galaxy Tab sales from launch through the second quarter of 2012 amounted to approximately 1.4 million units.
Successor models
At the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Verizon Wireless and Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile) revealed a new Samsung Galaxy Tab equipped with 4G LTE capabilities, providing access to Verizon Wireless' 4G/LTE Mobile Broadband Network. This model also features a 5-megapixel rear camera.
During the 2011 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Samsung introduced an updated Galaxy Tab boasting larger 10.1-inch HD screens and enhanced processing power, running on Google's Android Honeycomb platform. Initially scheduled for a March 2011 launch in the US and an April release in Europe, some specifications were later criticized as "insufficient" following the debut of the iPad 2, according to Samsung's mobile division executive vice president.
This critique prompted Samsung to unveil a slimmer 10.1-inch variant at the Samsung Unpacked Event held during the CTIA Wireless Convention in March 2011, alongside an 8.9-inch model. Consequently, the US release was postponed to June 8, with the smaller model expected "early summer." While no European delay was announced, the earlier design presented at Mobile World Congress was rebranded as "Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1v" for that market.
At IFA 2011 in Berlin, Samsung launched the Galaxy Tab 7.7, featuring a dual-core 1.4 GHz processor, 1 GB RAM, support for up to 32 GB MicroSD cards (potentially limited to certain variants), and a 5,100mAh battery. It includes a front-facing 2-megapixel camera and a rear-facing 3-megapixel camera with flash. Available in 16 GB, 32 GB, and 64 GB storage options, the device supports 802.11 a/b/g/n WiFi standards on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Measuring 196.7 x 133 x 7.89 mm and weighing just 335 g, it offers greater ease of use with one hand compared to larger tablets from Samsung and competitors.
The direct follow-up to the original Galaxy Tab is the Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.0 Plus, which retains the same 7-inch display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 using a PLS panel. It comes preloaded with Android 3.2 Honeycomb and incorporates upgraded hardware including a dual-core 1.2 GHz processor, options for either 16 GB or 32 GB of internal flash storage, along with front and rear cameras of 2 megapixels and 3 megapixels respectively. Slightly more compact than its predecessor at dimensions of 193.5 x 122.4 x 9.9 mm and weighing around 345 grams, this model is generally viewed as an enhancement rather than a full successor.
The first genuine successors in the lineup are the Galaxy Tab 2 (7.0) and Galaxy Tab 2 (10.1), targeting more affordable market segments. These tablets feature downgraded front cameras to VGA resolution, utilize a TI OMAP4430 dual-core processor clocked at 1.0 GHz, and possess slightly increased thickness compared to earlier versions. Additionally, they lack support for the 5 GHz WiFi band. The larger model was priced at $399 while the smaller one retailed for $249.
Meanwhile, Samsung introduced its first tablet under the Samsung Galaxy Note series—the Galaxy Note 10.1—which was later complemented by their inaugural 8-inch tablet, the Galaxy Note 8.0. This Note series supplanted the Galaxy Tab series within the premium tier market segment previously occupied by the latter. The Note 10.1 served as a higher-end option relative to the Galaxy Tab models including the original Tab 10.1, Tab 2 (10.1), and Tab 3 (10.1), featuring a quad-core processor running at 1.4 GHz and compatibility with Samsung's S-Pen stylus introduced with the original Galaxy Note smartphone. Similarly, the Note 8.0 positioned itself above the Galaxy Tab 3 (8.0) by offering a quad-core processor at 1.6 GHz alongside S-Pen support characteristic of the Note series.
The second generation of true successors includes the Galaxy Tab 3 (7.0), Galaxy Tab 3 (10.1), and Samsung's second-ever eight-inch tablet under this line—the Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 8.0. These devices are again aimed at budget-conscious consumers but feature improvements such as upgraded front cameras back to a resolution of 1.3 megapixels and processors sourced from distinct manufacturers: Marvell powering the 7-inch model, Samsung handling the eight-inch variant, and Intel supplying chips for the ten-inch version. All three benefit from a thinner profile enabled by Samsung's unified design approach and incorporate select features previously exclusive to S and Note series devices like Smart Stay and S-Voice—with Multi-Window functionality offered exclusively on the eight-inch model. Pricing stood at $399 for the ten-inch tablet, $299 for the eight-inch version, and $199 for the seven-inch device.
See also
References
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External links
- Official Samsung Galaxy Tab website Archived 21 March 2011 at the Wayback Machine
- Community site for Samsung Galaxy Tab enthusiasts Archived 14 February 2014 at the Wayback Machine