Samsung's given its upcoming Galaxy Note 10.1 a makeover, with the wannabe iPad-troubler now reportedly rocking a quad-core processor, and -- joy of joys -- somewhere to store the stylus.
Tablet Community (translate link) has snapped a shot of the newly designed Note 10.1, which looks to address a massive design flaw that became apparent several months ago.
The Note 10.1 is a big version of Samsung's Galaxy Note smart phone (without the er, phone bits), but when I went hands-on at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, I noticed there was nowhere to stow the S Pen stylus when you weren't using it.
Now, however, there's a slot in the side of the tablet to fit a diminutive S Pen into. Samsung also looks to be working on an S Pen holder accessory that turns the tiny, tough-to-grip stick into something that resembles a chunky biro.
Previously packing a 1.4GHz dual-core processor, the Note 10.1 is now said to sport a quad-core chip, a switcheroo that -- if true -- should give the Note 10.1 a performance boost and make it better at handling the kinds of photo-manipulation apps Samsung wants you to use the S Pen for.
I've contacted Samsung for confirmation on these changes, and I'll let you know when I hear something.
The Note 10.1 was originally pegged for a UK release between April and June -- here's hoping we don't have long to wait. I'd be amazed if the Note 10.1 manages to put a dent in the iPad's success, but these design tweaks would make the tablet much more appealing to Android enthusiasts.
Do these revisions make you more interested in the Note 10.1? Or would you rather cradle an iPad? Tell me in the comments or on our Facebook wall.
Image credit: Tablet Community

Comments 7
Add your comment
anonymous 24 May, 2012 01:07
It's a shame we can't get through a Samsung news article without obligitory Apple adverts. Do news articles about a new Iphone say things like "I'd be amazed if the Iphone manages to put a dent in Android's success"? (3 million in 3 days? Samsung get more than that in pre-orders with some of their models - and that's without the endless free hype and advertising by the media that supports Apple.)
The Galaxy Note has been immensely successful, let alone the amazing success of Android. Many multinational companies sell millions - I don't see why Apple need a special mention, in an article that's not even about them. I followed the headline to read about a Samsung product - I don't care about Apple.
anonymous 24 May, 2012 09:44
I was just thinking the same thing, read the whole article, thought it was interesting to read and.. OH THERE'S THE OBLIGATORY APPLE MENTION. It would be nice to read an ANDROID article without seeing APPLE being promoted.
anonymous 24 May, 2012 16:29
i was thinking the same thing...not to make fun of CNET but i notice most of the staff weather in the US or UK, are hardcore iWhores.
billfred 25 May, 2012 10:31
I* I* whether*
anonymous 25 May, 2012 18:51
The iPad is a commercial "equivalent" and an important player in the market. So it's going to get a mention, whether you like it or not. As a worker that sells a Microsoft-based product, I need something, as a matter of urgency, that is better than the new iPad, and, like, now! The iPad specs, for quad-core capabilities were rumoured months before. As someone who wants to move away from the "trendy iWorld" (sic) we live in, and move into a more functional, powerful adult world, why didn't Samsung get their competitive little butts in gear, and release this earlier? Surely, with the iMedia chomping at Apple's proverbial "innovative" heals, Samsung are now appearing as playing catch-up? :/ (btw my 2 words to enter below are "itrade said". A conspiracy?? ;)
anonymous 6 June, 2012 09:30
Yeah the Apple comparisons, just like all cars have to be compared with VW / Audi - totally over rated.
anonymous 1 July, 2012 00:27
Been holding out for a tablet just like this, if i'm going to be productive it has to have a stylus and supporting apps.... the Leovo Thinkpad is just too heavy and clunky, also I meet clients so it has to look good... can not wait