Review-of-the-Samsung-Galaxy-Tab-S9-FEplus-in-the-UAE
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Samsung has consistently been at the forefront of providing consumers with the latest technological products, spanning from smartphones and tablets to laptops, Bluetooth audio devices, and home appliances. Since the COVID pandemic, many countries have adopted hybrid work models, allowing students and office employees to work from home or on shifts. This has driven a surge in demand for compact, lightweight, and powerful electronic devices, with tablets being one of the most sought-after products in the market. On October 23, 2023, Samsung unveiled the new Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ for the UAE market.
Design & Specifications
Samsung has crafted the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (Fan Edition) with dimensions of 285.4 x 185.4 x 6.5 mm. It weighs of 627 grams. The device boasts a 12.4-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels and a 90Hz refresh rate. Powered by the Exynos 1380 chipset, the tablet comes with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The dual-camera setup comprises an 8MP + 8MP, while a 12MP sensor handles front-facing photography. A non-removable 10090mAh battery powers the device, running Android 12 with the One UI 4.1 interface. The tablet features an AKG stereo sound system. The package includes an S-Pen, USB data cable, quick guide, and SIM card tool remover.
The Review
Samsung sent us the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ for review, and we had it for two weeks. The tablet comes in a white box with the tablet, S-Pen, and AKG logo on the box. When you open the box, you will find the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ tablet with a translucent cover. Below the cover are two separate boxes and the S-Pen. One box contains the USB Type-C to Type-C data and a charging cable. The other box contains the SIM card tool remover and quick start guide.
Connecting and Updating the Tablet
Once you turn on the tablet and connect to Wi-Fi, you will be prompted to install the latest update. After the update, you will need to add a Google account to activate the tablet. For security, you will need to add a digit PIN or Face unlock to the tablet. If this tablet is going to be part of your Android ecosystem, you can copy data from another device. Add this device to your personal account with Google Drive. This way, you can work on documents or files and store them online to access them on another device like a phone or desktop.
When the tablet is fully updated, you will find all the required basic apps already present on the tablet. If you are using it as part of your ecosystem, you will have access to additional apps or bookmarks.
You have Google Assistant, which allows you to use voice commands to get things done. The tablet also comes with the Kids Space app, which is perfect for children.
Display & Body
As mentioned earlier, the tablet’s body and build are stylish and sturdy, featuring an aluminum casing and a sleek design for its size. The display is impressive, offering an IPS LCD panel with a 90Hz refresh rate. At 12.4 inches, the screen is quite large for a handheld device, and the colours are vibrant and bright. The touchscreen is highly responsive, and transitions between apps are smooth and quick.
While holding the tablet vertically, on the right side, the power button, which also serves as a fingerprint sensor. There are also volume rocker buttons, and storage card tray. Mics are also present on the side. On the left side, you’ll find magnetic pins that connect with a magnetic keyboard, which is sold separately. The bottom side of the tablet features a speaker grill, a USB Type-C charging port, and a port for wired data transfer. Another speaker grill is located on the top side, providing stereo sound when holding the tablet in a landscape or horizontal orientation.
The tablet’s versatility extends beyond its use as a tablet, as it can also function as a computer with the optional magnetic keyboard. Additionally, the display supports multi-touchscreen input, making the S-Pen a magical tool for interactions. While I had limited time to thoroughly test the S-Pen during the review period, I found it to be responsive and precise.
Additional Notes:
- The display is clear, and for testing, I played some 4K UHD videos (naturally, the video quality was downgraded). The quality was good, but I wish it was an AMOLED or OLED screen.
Cameras
The tablet features dual rear cameras, comprising an 8MP + 8MP sensor, capable of recording 4K videos. The cameras perform well under bright conditions but struggle in low light, producing noticeable noise, which is more evident on the tablet’s larger display compared to a smartphone’s.
The front-facing (selfie) camera boasts a 12MP sensor and delivers average performance in both low-light and bright environments. It can record videos at 1080p resolution.
Honestly, the tablet’s front camera is adequate for video calls and interactive moments with others, but it’s not well-suited for high-quality videography or photography. The tablet’s primary purpose is to serve as a convenient communication and entertainment device, offering a user-friendly handheld experience.
Additional Notes:
- The tablet’s cameras are good but not exceptional. Don’t expect smartphone-level camera performance from a tablet.
- The front camera works well for video calls and everyday interactions.
- The tablet’s primary purpose is communication and entertainment.
Audio
The tablet boasts dual AKG stereo speakers, which deliver impressive audio performance. I conducted stereo testing with a selection of music, and the speakers performed admirably in landscape mode, producing distinguishable left and right channels. However, in portrait mode, the sound remained centred, with audio output emanating from both the top and bottom speakers. The speakers handled high frequencies (treble) and mids exceptionally well. Considering the tablet’s thickness, the bass frequencies (Bass) were surprisingly good, and the overall volume was ample for personal listening.
Additional Notes:
- The tablet’s dual AKG stereo speakers provide excellent audio quality.
- The speakers excel in landscape mode but remain centred in portrait mode.
- The speakers deliver clear treble, well-rounded mids, and surprisingly decent bass for a tablet.
- The speakers provide ample volume for personal listening.
Operating System, Battery & Connectivity
Samsung has equipped the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ with a USB-Type-C port for charging and data transfer. The tablet supports 45-watt charging and houses a non-removable 10090mAh battery. It also boasts Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, along with Samsung DeX support. Powered by the Exynos 1380 chipset, 12GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage, the tablet delivers a seamless user experience.
To leverage your existing Samsung account, you can seamlessly integrate your apps onto the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+. Additionally, the tablet supports both Samsung Bixby and Google Assistant for voice-activated functionalities. For expanding storage capacity, the tablet features a storage card tray, allowing you to store data, access it on the go, and even make calls if you’re using the tablet like a phone. However, it’s recommended to utilize a Bluetooth headset or the tablet’s onboard speaker and microphone for calls or video calls to avoid looking awkward.
Accessories
Samsung includes the S-Pen and a USB Type-C cable with the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+. However, if you require a keyboard, you’ll need to purchase it separately from the Samsung e-store or authorized partner stores. Samsung offers two keyboard options to suit your preferences: the Smart Book Cover and the more durable Outdoor Cover.
Who should consider buying a Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+?
With numerous excellent tablets available in the market, Samsung continues to stand out as a leader in technological innovation. In the past, consumers primarily used tablets as supplementary devices, often alongside desktop PCs and laptops. However, with the advent of mobile SIM networks, Wi-Fi, and multi-screen collaboration capabilities, tablets have evolved to become integral extensions of our work and entertainment. Whether functioning as independent devices or seamlessly integrating into multi-screen setups, tablets offer versatility and convenience. The Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ exemplifies this shift, boasting 12GB RAM, a powerful chipset, and Android 13. Its expansive 12.4-inch LCD screen with a 90Hz refresh rate makes it ideal for mobile gaming, work, and entertainment, while its stereo AKG speakers deliver immersive audio experiences. Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ stands out as an exceptional device for both office and personal use.
In summary, if you’re seeking a tablet that transcends the limitations of conventional tablets, the 12.4-inch LCD Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ is the answer. Easily making it our top choice for 2023 tablets in the UAE, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ pushes the boundaries of tablet technology.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ (Wi-Fi + 128GB Storage) is priced at AED 2,299.
Samsung Galaxy TabS9 FE+ (5G – 128GB) is priced at AED 2,649
Samsung Galaxy TabS9 FE+ (Wi-Fi – 256GB) is priced at AED 2,549
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