Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 8.0 Release Date Coming as First Picture Surfaces (PHOTO)

By Vincent Funaro, Christian Post Reporter Friday, May 17, 2013

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 8.0 release date could be quickly approaching as the first picture of the tablet surfaced on the internet today.

The new device looks almost identical to the 7-inch version that was unveiled by Samsung earlier this year. The 8.0 version still has not been confirmed by Samsung, however, it is expected to launch sometime in the near future and will compete directly with Apple's iPad Mini.

The Galaxy Tab 8.0 is rumored to feature a WXGA screen that will have a 1280 x 800 resolution. Other specifications expected to show up on the Slate include a 1.5GHz dual-core processor, Android 4.2.2, JellyBean, a 5-megapixel front camera, a 1.3 megapixel rear camera, 16GB internal memory, and a 4450 mAh battery.

Samsung currently competes with the iPad Mini with its recently launched Galaxy Note 8. The larger version of the popular hybrid device features a 1280 x 800 display. Apple's retina iPad Mini is expected to have a resolution of 2048 x 1536, so Samsung will have to step its game up a bit more if it still hopes to compete.

The company is also rumored to be releasing a Galaxy Tab 3 Plus model at this year's IFA, according to an older report from SamMobile.

Samsung used a similar strategy when the company launched the Galaxy Tab 7.7 Super AMOLED Plus two years ago. This device received praise from customers and was regarded as one of the best tablets in the market.

With the Galaxy Tab 3, Samsung wants to repeat the formula by providing its customers with a bigger tablet sporting a high-end AMOLED display. It could either be 10 or 11 inches. The company is reportedly testing out different sizes at this time.