Samsung Galaxy Tab finally unveiled

The Tab is set for an October release in the UK

The highly anticipated Android 2.2 based Samsung Galaxy Tab has been launched at IFA 2010, highlighting a focus on business users with capabilities such as videoconferencing.

The Tab weighs in at 380g, and can provide over seven hours of HD viewing, according to Thomas Richter, Samsung Telecommunications Europe portfolio management head. Additional features include a 3-megapixel camera and augmented reality capabilities.

Richter described the Tab as a "smart media device", and said that its phone function allows for use with a Bluetooth headset. The Tab can also act as a speakerphone. Accessories include an external keyboard, HDMI output and carry case.

The Tab also comes with a music and media hub service that streams video and songs to the tablet. It comes with a SD card slot up to a maximum 32GB, and can be used as an e-reader.

The handset is billed as an "on the go device", not a sofa or lap device like other tablets.

The decision to use a 7in super TFT screen, rather than a super Amoled, was made to keep costs down and for a power consumption reasons.

A European launch has been pencilled in for October, with prices to be confirmed, although Vodafone today said it will be selling the device.