Following the release of Apple’s iPad 2 in South Africa, Samsung has announced a reduction in price for its iPad competitor, the Galaxy Tab (check out our review here).

 

This Android-powered tablet is now available for a recommended retail price of R5999, which some will still consider a little steep, considering you can pick-up an iPad 2 from around R4399 for the 16 GB Wi-Fi version or R5599 for the 16 GB Wi-Fi + 3G model.

 

Apple also dropped the price of its first generation iPad, before bringing the new model in the country, with pricing kicking off at a low R3899 for the 16 GB Wi-Fi only version and R4999 for the 16 GB Wi-Fi + 3G model. 

 

Still, Samsung will be looking to snap up some of the local tablet market share thanks to the Galaxy Tab sporting a 7" display, which features enhanced TFT technology that according to the Korean company offers brighter colours and clearer pictures. This display delivers 1024 x 600 (WSVGA) resolution, with the tablet operating on Android 2.2 (Froyo) operating system.

 

Unlike the iPad it boasts support for Flash (Flash Player 10.1) and also provides access to the over 80 000 applications currently available via Google’s Android Market. The Galaxy Tab supports Wi-Fi (802.11 n) as well as 3G HSDPA connectivity and users are able to make voice calls using this tablet as well. 

 

“The Galaxy Tab which entered the market locally last year, has been well received and we have recognised the tremendous growth potential in this newly created market,” stated Paulo Ferreira, head of Mobile Products and Business Solutions at Samsung.

 

“This price reduction is a powerful proof point of Samsung’s commitment to bring new and innovative mobile experiences to local consumers.”