Samsung launches Galaxy A17 5G and Tab A11+ in the US on January 7-8, targeting Apple's entry-level iPad with a $100 price advantage.
The Galaxy Tab A11+ arrives January 8 at $249.99, undercutting the baseline iPad by $100. Samsung's budget tablet features an 11-inch 90Hz display that surpasses the iPad's 60Hz refresh rate, according to Digital Trends. Both Wi-Fi and 5G variants will be available through major US carriers.
Samsung commits to seven years of Android OS updates for the Tab A11+, matching its flagship support policy. The tablet becomes the first Galaxy A-series device to include Circle to Search AI functionality, previously reserved for premium models.
The Galaxy A17 5G launches January 7 at $199.99 with six years of software updates. It features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection typically found on flagship phones, according to Techloy. Both devices include Google's Gemini AI assistant and Circle to Search capabilities.
Samsung's MediaTek chipset powers the Tab A11+, with reports indicating either the Dimensity 7300 or MT8775 processor, paired with up to 8GB RAM and 256GB expandable storage. The tablet includes quad Dolby Atmos speakers and maintains a 3.5mm headphone jack, features often omitted from budget devices.
The A17 5G offers a 6.7-inch 90Hz Super AMOLED display and 5,000mAh battery with 25W fast charging. Samsung claims 50% charge in 30 minutes. The phone succeeds the Galaxy A16 5G, which was the best-selling Android smartphone last quarter according to Counterpoint Research.
Both devices ship with Android 16 and One UI 8 out of the box. The Tab A11+ supports DeX Standalone Edition for desktop productivity without external displays. Samsung positions the tablet as a productivity tool rather than disposable media consumption device.
The US launch follows global availability that began in August for the A17 5G and November for the Tab A11+. Samsung will sell both products through AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Metro by T-Mobile, and Samsung Experience Stores nationwide.
Samsung's extended software support challenges competitors in the budget segment, where two-year update cycles remain common. The company's AI feature integration at sub-$250 price points expands Google's ecosystem to mainstream consumers.
The Tab A11+ includes metal unibody construction with IP52 rating and 7,040mAh battery rated for 15 hours of video playback. Display specifications include 1920x1200 resolution and 480 nits peak brightness.
Camera configurations feature 50MP main, 5MP ultrawide, and 2MP macro sensors on the A17 5G, with 8MP rear and 5MP front cameras on the Tab A11+. Both devices support microSD expansion up to 2TB.
Samsung's pricing strategy directly targets Apple's entry-level tablet market while offering superior display technology and extended software support. The company's budget devices now include premium features previously exclusive to flagship models.
