Samsung Galaxy Tab launch date announced

Samsung has revealed that its newest entry into the tablet computer market, the Samsung Galaxy Tab, will hit UK stores on 1 November.

The South Korean company has been coy on the Galaxy Tab’s price, but currently most online retailers are offering pre-orders at £599 (though Amazon pegs the RRP at a hefty £799).

The tablet will be able to connect to 2G and 3G networks in the UK and Samsung have said that they will be selling the device via mobile operators, so you should be able to pick one up subsidised on a contract.

In terms of specs, the device boasts a 7-inch, 600×1024 capacitive touchscreen, 1GHz ARM based CPU, a GPS, a 3Mp camera, wi-fi, USB, Bluetooth 3.0, HSDPA 3G and runs off Google’s Android operating system.

The Galaxy Tab will be most immediately going toe-to-toe with Apple’s iPad and Dell’s Streak, (with BlackBerry, Microsoft and Google standing around ringside looking menacing).

Both devices are being set at similar price points, but as the iPad is not currently available on contract, Samsung’s killer blow may depend on how creative network operators get with their deals.

Which? is heading to Samsung HQ for an exclusive hands-on with the Galaxy Tab next week. So check back soon for all the latest.