Samsung Galaxy Tab 89 LTE I957 Full Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Overview of Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 LTE I957

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 LTE I957 represents a significant technological advancement from the South Korean electronics giant. Released in November 2011, it was among the first tablets to integrate LTE technology, enabling faster data speeds and more efficient connectivity, particularly for those using AT&T's network in the United States. This tablet was tasked with combining the power of a high-performance mobile device with the functionality of a larger tablet interface.

Network and Connectivity

The Galaxy Tab 8.9 LTE I957 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of network capabilities. Supporting GSM, HSPA, and most notably LTE, the device provided users with superior connectivity options. The LTE networks, particularly bands 4 and 17 used by AT&T, afforded users considerably faster internet speeds, making streaming, downloading, and general browsing more seamless and efficient. Furthermore, the device offered Wi-Fi connectivity with 802.11 a/b/g/n dual-band support, enabling reliable wireless internet access, as well as Bluetooth 3.0 with A2DP and EDR for expanded capabilities.

Design and Build

The design of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 LTE indicated a focus on portability without sacrificing functionality. With dimensions of 230.9 x 157.8 x 8.6 mm and a weight of 455 grams, the device was slim and lightweight, making it convenient for users on the go. The incorporation of a Mini-SIM provided cellular capabilities essential for a device that pushed the boundaries of connectivity in the tablet space. The build quality is robust, characterized by a solid finish with a sizeable screen to body ratio of approximately 63%.

Display and Interface

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 LTE's display was a major selling point. The PLS LCD screen measured 8.9 inches with a resolution of 800 x 1280 pixels, amounting to a pixel density of about 170 ppi. This display configuration offered sharp visuals and vibrant colors, whether viewing media, surfing the internet, or using applications. The Android 3.2 Honeycomb OS was implemented with an intuitive user interface, catering to users who prefer an experience that closely resembles a desktop, enhanced with the touchscreen capabilities expected from a tablet.

Performance and Hardware

At the heart of the Galaxy Tab 8.9 LTE was a dual-core 1.5 GHz processor. This ensured the tablet could handle multiple applications and complex tasks without suffering from slowdown, positioning it competitively at the time of its release. The device came with 1GB of RAM, sufficient for moderate multitasking and running concurrent applications smoothly. Storage choices included 16GB and 32GB options; however, it's worth noting that there was no card slot for expanded memory, which could be considered a limitation for users with extensive media and app requirements.

Camera Capabilities

For its time, the camera setup on the Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 LTE was respectable. The primary camera was a 3.15 MP autofocus camera complete with an LED flash, allowing for basic photography and video recording at 720p. Although it wasn't designed to compete directly with dedicated cameras or top-tier smartphones, it provided practicality for quick photography needs. The 2 MP front camera served the purpose for video calls and selfies efficiently enough but was considered basic by modern standards.

Audio and Multimedia

The audio experience on the Galaxy Tab 8.9 LTE featured stereo speakers, promising a fuller audio experience than many contemporary devices that relied on mono sound. This allowed for an enhanced media experience, particularly when paired with videos and games. Additionally, the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack ensured user convenience and compatibility with a wide range of headphones and external audio devices.

Sensors and Additional Features

To enhance user interaction and experience, the device was equipped with an accelerometer, a gyro, and a compass. These sensors facilitated various functionalities, from screen rotation to interactive gaming experiences that relied on motion sensing. Despite some limitations compared to newer devices, these sensors significantly contributed to the interactive experience of the tablet.

Battery Life

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 LTE I957 was outfitted with a non-removable Li-Ion 6100 mAh battery. Offering a standby time of up to 400 hours and a talk time of up to 11 hours, the battery life was substantial, allowing users longer periods of use without frequent charges. This was a critical factor for users who relied on extended remote use without easy access to charging options.

Conclusion

While its production has been discontinued, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 LTE I957 remains a significant piece of Samsung's technological history, representing a transitional period where tablets began to adopt more mobile features such as LTE. Despite some shortcomings like the lack of expandable memory and modest camera capabilities, it was a versatile device at its time, priced at approximately 330 EUR. For users who valued connectivity, portability, and a robust Android experience, the Galaxy Tab 8.9 LTE was a noteworthy option.