Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra: Introduction
Samsung has once again raised the bar with the release of the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra. Unveiled on February 9, 2022, and officially available from April 30, this tablet represents a pinnacle in cutting-edge design and performance. In this detailed article, we will delve into every feature of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra, exploring its design, display, performance, camera capabilities, and other features that make it a standout device in the tablet market.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra: Key Highlights
- Design and Display:
- Slim and lightweight design at 5.5mm thickness and 726g (Wi-Fi) or 728g (5G).
- 14.6-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 1848 x 2960 pixels and HDR10+ support.
- 120Hz refresh rate for a smooth and immersive viewing experience.
- Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection for durability against scratches and drops.
- Performance and Powerhouse:
- Powered by Qualcomm SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset with an octa-core CPU.
- Adreno 730 GPU for top-notch graphics performance.
- Multiple memory configurations ranging from 128GB with 8GB RAM to 512GB with 16GB RAM.
- Dedicated microSDXC card slot for expandable storage options.
- Camera Capabilities:
- Main camera setup with a 13MP wide-angle lens and a 6MP ultrawide lens.
- 4K video recording at 30/60fps and 1080p at 30fps.
- Dual selfie cameras with 12MP wide-angle and 12MP ultrawide lenses.
- HDR support and 4K video recording for high-quality imaging.
- Multimedia and Audio:
- Stereo speakers tuned by AKG for an immersive audio experience.
- No 3.5mm audio jack, but wireless connectivity options available for premium audio.
- Connectivity and Features:
- Comprehensive connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e and Bluetooth 5.2.
- Precise positioning with GPS, GLONASS, BDS, and GALILEO.
- USB Type-C 3.2 and magnetic connector for charging and data transfer.
- Fingerprint sensor under the display for secure access.
- Battery Life and Charging:
- Massive 11200mAh non-removable Li-Po battery.
- 45W wired charging, achieving 100% charge in 82 minutes (advertised).
- Software and Upgradability:
- Runs on Android 12 with Samsung’s One UI 6 for a customized user experience.
- Future-proof with upgradability to Android 14 for access to the latest features and security updates.
- Price and Availability:
- Priced at approximately 1150 EUR, reflecting its premium specifications and features.
- Availability from April 30, 2022.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra: Detailed Feature Explanation
Design and Display:
- The Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra boasts a sleek and lightweight design, measuring at just 5.5mm thickness and weighing in at 726g (Wi-Fi) or 728g (5G). The dimensions of 326.4 x 208.6 mm provide a comfortable yet expansive canvas for the device’s 14.6-inch Super AMOLED display.
- The display itself is a visual marvel, featuring a resolution of 1848 x 2960 pixels with a 16:10 ratio, delivering approximately 240 pixels per inch density.
- The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth and fluid interactions, while HDR10+ support enhances the color and contrast for an immersive viewing experience.
- The Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection adds durability to the display, safeguarding it against scratches and accidental drops.
Performance and Powerhouse:
- Under the hood, the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is powered by the Qualcomm SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset, fabricated on a 4nm process.
- The octa-core CPU configuration includes a powerful Cortex-X2 core clocked at 3.00 GHz, three Cortex-A710 cores at 2.50 GHz, and four Cortex-A510 cores at 1.80 GHz. Accompanying this is the Adreno 730 GPU, ensuring top-notch graphics performance for demanding applications and games.
- The tablet offers multiple memory configurations, ranging from 128GB with 8GB RAM to 512GB with 16GB RAM.
- The inclusion of a dedicated microSDXC card slot provides an option for expandable storage, catering to users with diverse needs.
Camera Capabilities:
- The camera setup on the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is nothing short of impressive. The main camera module features a dual setup with a 13MP wide-angle lens and a 6MP ultrawide lens.
- This combination enables users to capture detailed and expansive shots, whether in standard or panoramic mode.
- The device supports 4K video recording at 30/60fps and 1080p at 30fps, ensuring that users can document their experiences with exceptional clarity and detail.
- On the front, the dual selfie cameras consist of a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 12MP ultrawide lens, delivering stunning self-portraits and facilitating high-quality video calls.
- With features like HDR support and 4K video recording, the tablet ensures that both front and rear cameras contribute to an exceptional imaging experience.
Multimedia and Audio:
The tablet elevates the multimedia experience with its audio capabilities. Equipped with stereo speakers tuned by AKG, the tablet delivers immersive sound quality, making it an ideal companion for media consumption and entertainment. Although the tablet does not include a 3.5mm audio jack, users can still enjoy a premium audio experience through wireless connectivity options.
Connectivity and Features:
- In terms of connectivity, the tablet offers a comprehensive set of options. Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e ensures high-speed wireless connectivity, while Bluetooth 5.2 facilitates seamless communication with compatible devices.
- The inclusion of GPS, GLONASS, BDS, and GALILEO provides precise positioning capabilities, enhancing the tablet’s utility for navigation and location-based services.
- One noteworthy feature is the absence of NFC and radio capabilities, which may be a consideration for users who rely on these functionalities in their daily usage.
- The tablet supports USB Type-C 3.2 for charging and data transfer, and it features a magnetic connector for added convenience.
- Additionally, the inclusion of a fingerprint sensor under the display ensures secure and convenient access to the device, complemented by other sensors like accelerometer, gyro, proximity, and compass.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra: Battery Life and Charging
Powering the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is a massive 11200mAh non-removable Li-Po battery. The tablet is equipped with a 45W wired charging capability, boasting an advertised 100% charge in just 82 minutes. This rapid charging feature ensures that users spend more time enjoying their tablet and less time waiting for it to recharge.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra: Software and Upgradability
Running on Android 12 out of the box, the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra provides users with the latest features and optimizations from Google’s mobile operating system. Samsung’s One UI 6 adds a layer of customization and additional features, enhancing the overall user experience.
What makes the Tab S8 Ultra future-proof is its upgradability to Android 14, ensuring that users will have access to the latest software advancements and security updates for an extended period.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra: Price and Availability
As of the latest information available, the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is priced at approximately 1150 EUR. This premium price point aligns with the tablet’s top-tier specifications and features, making it a worthy investment for users who demand the best in performance and design.
Drawbacks of Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra
- High Price Point:
- The premium features and specifications come at a cost, making the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra relatively expensive. This may be a drawback for budget-conscious consumers who are looking for more affordable tablet options.
- Lack of 3.5mm Audio Jack:
- The absence of a 3.5mm audio jack may inconvenience users who prefer wired headphones or audio accessories. While wireless options are available, some users still rely on traditional wired connections for audio.
- No NFC and Radio:
- The absence of NFC may limit certain contactless functionalities, and the lack of a radio may disappoint users who enjoy listening to FM broadcasts. Users who heavily rely on these features might find the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra less versatile in this regard.
- Large and Heavy Form Factor:
- While the large 14.6-inch display is great for multimedia and productivity, it also makes the tablet bulkier and heavier. Some users may find it less convenient for one-handed use or portability compared to smaller-sized tablets.
- Limited Stylus Integration:
- Although the tablet comes with a stylus with Bluetooth integration, accelerometer, and gyro, the level of stylus functionality may be limited compared to dedicated devices like the Samsung Galaxy Note series. Users seeking advanced stylus features may find the capabilities of the included stylus somewhat restricted.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra: Conclusion
In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra stands as a testament to Samsung’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the tablet market. With its stunning display, powerful performance, versatile camera system, and a host of features catering to diverse user needs, the Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is a flagship tablet that leaves a lasting impression. While the premium price may be a consideration for some, the tablet’s capabilities and cutting-edge technology make it a compelling choice for users who prioritize performance, design, and an exceptional multimedia experience in their portable devices.
