Samsung has begun selling its Galaxy Tab S12+ and Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra, two large Android tablets aimed at students, creative professionals, and workers who want a portable screen for writing, drawing, and multitasking. The tablets launched in the United States on October 7, with the S12+ starting at $1,199.99 and the S12 Ultra at $1,399.99.
The company announced the lineup on September 30, positioning it as a productivity device rather than simply a media tablet. Both models include an S Pen, support microSD storage, and run Samsung DeX, the software mode that turns the tablet interface into a desktop-style workspace when connected to an external display or keyboard.
What Buyers Get
The Galaxy Tab S12+ has a 12.6-inch display, while the Ultra increases the screen to 14.6 inches. Samsung says both use MediaTek’s Dimensity 9500 processor, a chip intended to handle demanding apps, multitasking, and on-device artificial-intelligence features.
The larger Ultra is likely to appeal to illustrators, architects, and video editors who need room for toolbars, timelines, and split-screen work. The S12+ offers a smaller and more travel-friendly alternative without giving up the S Pen or DeX support.
| Model | Starting price | Display | Key shared features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galaxy Tab S12+ | $1,199.99 | 12.6 inches | S Pen, microSD support, DeX, Dimensity 9500 |
| Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra | $1,399.99 | 14.6 inches | S Pen, microSD support, DeX, Dimensity 9500 |
Sources: Samsung’s announcement and product coverage.
The Galaxy Tab S12+ and S12 Ultra became available in U.S. stores on October 7. Samsung has not been named in the available reporting as confirming a worldwide rollout schedule, so buyers outside the United States should check local Samsung retailers for regional pricing and release dates.
Why It Matters
Samsung is making a direct pitch at people who may not need a full laptop every day. The tablets are not inexpensive, but the included S Pen, expandable storage, and desktop-style software could make them practical for note-taking, design work, document editing, and remote work.
The launch also arrives as tablet makers increasingly compete on productivity rather than entertainment. A large screen alone no longer differentiates a premium tablet; buyers are looking at keyboard support, stylus precision, battery endurance, software continuity, and whether the device can handle real work outside the home.
The Competition
Samsung’s new tablets enter a crowded premium market. Apple’s iPad line remains the default choice for many creative users, while Microsoft’s Surface devices target buyers who want Windows compatibility alongside a detachable keyboard.
Samsung’s advantage is its Android ecosystem and DeX mode, which can be useful for users who already rely on Galaxy phones or want a lighter alternative to carrying a laptop. Its challenge is convincing buyers that a $1,200-plus tablet is a better fit than a capable laptop at a similar price.
