Samsung Launches Galaxy Tab S12 Series: Major Plus Upgrade, Modest Ultra Refresh

Key points

• The Galaxy Tab S12 Plus is a major refresh of the two-year-old Tab S10 Plus, featuring a larger 12.6-inch display, thinner 5.3mm body, and the new Dimensity 9500 chipset.
• The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra is a modest update to the Tab S11 Ultra, retaining its 14.6-inch display and 5.1mm thickness, with only the chipset and audio upgraded.
• Both models include a six-month exclusive trial of Adobe Photoshop for Android, which features AI tools and S Pen support.
• Samsung’s alternating release strategy means no standard 11-inch Tab S12 is available this year; that model is expected in 2027.
• The tablets feature 4-channel spatial audio, IP68 water resistance, and seven years of Android updates.

Background

Samsung has historically alternated updates between its standard and Plus tablet variants since the Galaxy Tab S10 line. Previous leaks in August 2026 anticipated a September launch, but the release was delayed to October. The company has also extended software support for its flagship tablets, with the S12 series now guaranteed seven years of updates, a significant increase from the four years offered by the S9 series.

How outlets are covering it

The Verge emphasizes the significant hardware improvements in the Tab S12 Plus, noting its brighter display and larger battery justify the $200 price increase over the S10 Plus. In contrast, it criticizes the Tab S12 Ultra for offering only a chipset bump and audio upgrade for the same price hike. Engadget’s review praises the Ultra’s 14.6-inch OLED display and battery life but criticizes its $1,400 price tag and lack of ports, calling it the 'apex Android tablet' despite its cost. CNET highlights the modest performance gains of the Dimensity 9500 chip, noting that while AI processing is faster, the overall speed bump is not dramatic enough to justify an upgrade for current Tab S10 or S11 owners. Samsung’s official press release focuses on the tablets' 'ultimate productivity' capabilities, emphasizing the new 3nm processor, 23-hour battery life, and the inclusion of professional apps like Photoshop and Notability.

Why it matters

The Galaxy Tab S12 series solidifies Samsung’s position as the sole major competitor to Apple’s iPad Pro in the premium Android tablet market. The inclusion of Adobe Photoshop for Android marks a significant step for the platform, bringing professional creative tools to tablets for the first time. The alternating release strategy and high price points reflect Samsung’s focus on maximizing value from its flagship lineup, though it may deter users seeking smaller or more affordable options.

What to watch

The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and Plus will be available for purchase starting October 7 in select markets. Samsung has indicated that a standard 11-inch Tab S12 model will likely be released in 2027, following its alternating update cycle. Users can expect ongoing software updates for seven years, with the first major Android update already included in the launch.