Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra vs Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra: The difference one year can make
Samsung has released the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra, the latest in its flagship tablet line, featuring a faster processor and enhanced four-channel spatial audio. The tablet maintains the same design and 14.6-inch AMOLED display as its predecessor, with the key upgrades being internal rather than external. However, a $200 price increase to $1,400 raises questions about whether the improvements justify the cost in a market where competitors are advancing faster.
The processor upgrade from MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ to Dimensity 9500 brings 19 per cent faster CPU performance and 17 per cent more GPU power, along with a 61 per cent boost to the AI-focused NPU. The audio system now supports four-channel spatial audio instead of two-channel, and there's a new 3D vapour chamber for cooling. The tablet maintains the same 11,600 milliamp-hour battery and 45W charging speed as the S11 Ultra, and lacks any tangible improvements to justify the price hike compared to faster-charging competitors like Redmagic's Astra 2.
- Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra upgraded processor and audio, but keeps same design and display.
- Price jumped $200 to $1,400; improvements don't justify the cost hike.
- Competitors offer faster charging and better value in the tablet market.
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Samsung's Galaxy Tab S range comprises the company's premium tablets, aimed at professional and consumer users seeking high-performance devices. The company typically updates the Ultra model annually, releasing a new version with upgraded internal components.
The Tab S11 Ultra and Tab S12 Ultra, released a year apart, demonstrate how tablet manufacturers routinely update their products. The newer Tab S12 Ultra contains a faster processor and an upgraded audio system for more immersive sound. The display, battery and charging speed remain the same as the earlier model.
Multiple premium tablet manufacturers compete in the market by releasing annual updates to their products. These regular updates allow companies to introduce new features and maintain their position against rivals.