CES 2011 Coverage

Samsung

Since tablets have been a lively topic on the forums of late, we couldn't stop by the Samsung booth without checking out the Samsung Galaxy Tab. Is this the iPad killer we've been waiting for? Depends on who you ask. The 7" display was very nice and the dual cameras definitely help — the iPad doesn't even have one. It's also smaller and a lot easier to carry, and most importantly, provides full web browsing capabilities with Flash 10.1 support. That being said, I found the interface a little clunkier, though over time I'm sure one would get used to it. The only other noticeable drawback compared to the iPad was that rotating didn't occur as quickly and fluidly. However, that's a fairly minor gripe.

Samsung was also showing off its line of 2View digital cameras, which include the ST700, PL170 and PL120. All three feature 5x optical zoom and a touch-screen interface on the back. The ST700 is the top-of-the-line model at 16.1 megapixels and featuring a 1.8" front LCD. It will retail for $279.99. The PL170 is also 16.1 megapixels, but with a 1.5" front LCD, retailing for $199.99. The PL120 is 14.2 megapixels with a 1.5" front LCD, and will retail for $149.99. One of the neat things about them is a feature that Samsung calls the Jump Shot. The front LCD counts down and then displays an arrow letting the subject of the photo know when to jump. The camera then takes three continuous shots for added reliability that you'll capture the right moment.

On the display front, Samsung showed off its HyperReal 3D displays and its Central Station wireless hub monitors. The latter were pretty interesting. When a laptop comes within 3.3 feet of one of the hub monitors (CA750 is pictured below), the monitor automatically activates.