Samsung appears set to refresh its premium tablet lineup this fall, with insider reports pointing to the launch of the Galaxy Tab S12+ and Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra in September. Notably, Samsung might skip releasing a standard Tab S12 model once again, focusing exclusively on larger, high-end devices for the second year running.
This follows the pattern from the previous generation, where Samsung limited itself to the 12.4-inch Tab S11+ and the flagship 14.6-inch Tab S11 Ultra, leaving out a smaller, 11-inch version. The strategy caters to users who prioritize near-laptop screen sizes, stylus support, and keyboard compatibility rather than compact or budget-friendly tablets.
Galaxy Tab S12+ and S12 Ultra specs leak
According to the leaks, the Galaxy Tab S12+ will sport a 12.4-inch OLED display, while the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra will push the size up to 14.6 inches. Both tablets are expected to feature OLED panels with a 120Hz variable refresh rate and a punch-hole front-facing camera.
Under the hood, Samsung is reportedly partnering with MediaTek, equipping both devices with the 3nm Dimensity 9500 chipset-a shift from Qualcomm Snapdragon chips seen in prior models. Base configurations might start at 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, supporting microSDXC expansion.
- 12.4-inch OLED screen for Galaxy Tab S12+
- 14.6-inch OLED screen for Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra
- Up to 120Hz variable refresh rate
- MediaTek Dimensity 9500 3nm chip
- Starting at 12GB RAM and 256GB storage
- Support for microSDXC, S Pen, and Wi‑Fi 7
Battery capacity for the Tab S12+ is rumored to be between 10,500 and 10,600 mAh, while the Ultra’s battery size remains undisclosed. Additional features likely include a 12MP front camera capable of 4K video recording, an in-display fingerprint scanner, IP68 water and dust resistance, four Dolby Atmos speakers, Bluetooth 6.0, and USB 3.2 Type-C connectivity.
One UI 9.0 and Android 17 enhance software support
A standout detail in the leak is One UI 9.0, running on Android 17 right out of the box, with promises of seven major Android updates. This level of support is rare for Android tablets; Samsung is matching the update longevity it typically offers on its flagship phones. By comparison, Apple’s iPads enjoy long-term support too, but the approach is less explicitly defined in Android’s tablet space, where Google’s offerings and update track records tend to be more modest.
Samsung’s premium tablets compared to competitors
Samsung holds a strong position in the premium Android tablet segment. According to IDC, the global tablet market grew roughly 7% in 2024, with Samsung retaining second place behind Apple. Among high-end Android tablets, competitors are thin on the ground. Lenovo offers alternatives but lacks Samsung’s brand recognition, while many Chinese manufacturers prioritize budget devices over flagship-level offerings.
Samsung’s decision to concentrate on larger screens and high-end specs reflects both market demand and its competitive strategy against Apple’s iPad Pro and Samsung’s own foldable smartphone line. The Tab S series appeals to professionals and creatives who want a big canvas combined with S Pen functionality and laptop-like productivity.
Upcoming Samsung tablet releases and outlook
The timing leaves some questions. Samsung is expected to unveil its latest foldable phones and smartwatches by late July, potentially pushing the Galaxy Tab S12+ and S12 Ultra announcements to a second wave this fall. If the company sticks to the rumored schedule, we could see the new tablets less than two months after the Galaxy Z series launches, creating a tight cluster of premium device launches this season.
What will be interesting to watch is whether Samsung continues to bypass smaller or mid-range tablet variants, doubling down on high-end models to justify premium pricing and maintain a distinct niche. This focus might alienate casual users in favor of professionals but could solidify Samsung’s hold on the upper echelon of Android tablets for 2024 and beyond.