Samsung launches a 3.6in multi-media WiFi device

KOREAN ELECTRONICS MAKER Samsung has launched an Android multi-media device with a 3.6in screen and WiFi, called the Samsung Galaxy WiFi 3.6.

The handset, which costs £149 for the 8GB model or £169 for the 16GB version, does not connect with a SIM card. Samsung said it is aimed at people who want the WiFi capabilities of an Android smartphone but don't want to buy into a monthly contract.

The device is powered by a 1GHz OMAP processor, runs Android 2.3 Gingerbread, and will launch in the UK in early October. It will be available from retailers including Dixons, Amazon, Littlewoods, HMV and Argos.

It supports a variety of video and audio formats, and Samsung's Soundalive feature gives users the ability to adjust sound levels to fit the song they are listening to or the film they are watching.

Meanwhile, users can make voice or video calls over the internet using services such as Google Talk or Skype.

The device also includes Social Hub, which means that when connected to the internet users can access a variety of social networking services as well as email and instant messaging services from a single inbox.

Users can get apps through Google's Android Market and Samsung Apps.

You can backup songs, videos and other files onto a PC without needing to install a program or needing to plug the device into a network, by using the WiFi connection.

Smart View also enables the device to be used to control the user's Samsung Smart TV.

Samsung UK head of mobile, Simon Stanford said, "The GALAXY S WiFi 3.6 is the perfect solution for socially-connected multimediaenthusiasts who are interested in smart on-the-go multimedia without the expense of a mobile phone contract."

"There is considerable demand for access to rich multimedia anywhere-anytime, and with connectivity that enables users to easily share the content they care for wirelessly. With the GALAXY WiFi 3.6 we have created a device that allows consumers to wirelessly access rich multimedia, choose from thousands of relevant applications to download, and communicate with friends using Social Hub - all in a portable media-rich device."

The INQUIRER office was divided about Samsung's new device, with some of us saying it's good that the electronics maker is doing something different with its new 7.7in, 5.5in and 3.6in devices. Others were not so keen, saying they would use their phone for what the 3.6in device is meant for.

However, as they say, the proof will be in the pudding, or in this case how many of these not tablet, not smartphone hybrids Samsung sells. µ