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Hands on with the Vodafone-exclusive Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1

Though we were able to enjoy some hands on time of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 at Mobile World Congress, we’ve just been able to have a little play around with the UK version, courtesy of Vodafone.

The Galaxy Tab 10.1, as its name suggests, features a whopping 10.1-inch screen, outstripping those of the original Galaxy Tab and the iPad.

Camera-wise you get an 8-megapixel main camera on the back, which is supported by an LED flash. The main camera is capable of recording 1080p HD video at 24fps and comes with an exhaustive list of settings and effects built in (more on those in a bit). There’s also a 2-megapixel camera mounted on the front, so you’ll be able to make video calls

This version we saw was still an in-progress model – it had ‘NOT FOR SALE’ clearly stamped on its back. Though there were some things we couldn’t do like sync our calendars and download apps, we did have a play around with the Tab 10.1’s camera and had a go at pinning widgets and app shortcuts to the homepages.

So far we’re really impressed with Tab 10.1 responsiveness and how Android 3.0 works on it. We want our review model right now.

We’re still none the wise regarding a UK release date about this; we duly quizzed Vodafone about this but didn’t get an answer. Needless to say, we’ll let you know as soon as we hear anything.

Until then, feast your eyes on these close up pics of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1.

The main 8-megapixel camera of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 doing its thing. The camera focussed on the watch and chewing gum really quickly and adjusted to cope with the ropey lighting conditions of our office.

The crop tool, part of the new Android 3.0 gallery. Obviously, it’s easier to drag and adjust selection area on a bigger screen than on a phone’s smaller screen.

The 2-megapixel front-facing camera allows for video calls and optical feedback mishaps like this one. You can also choose from four basic filter effects with both the main and front camera, potentially allowing for some interesting video call convos.

We’re looking forwards to seeing Android apps that take advantage of the dual camera set up. Video calls using fun house mirror and infra red effects could be a lot of fun.

You can choose from a huge list of camera settings depending on where you’re taking your pictures, or you can just select Auto and let the Tab 10.1’s camera do it’s thing.

The SIM card slot located on the right hand side of the Galaxy Tab 10.1, with one pair of the surround-sound external speakers underneath.

On the other side the power button and 3.5mm audio jack sit next to the other pair of surround sound speakers.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 from the back. We like the textured pattern on the back that both provides a measure of grip and makes a change from the uniform smoothness of most phones/tablets’ casings.

Note the ‘Vodafone with Google’ branding on the back, cementing the fact this this baby is exclusive to Vodafone in the UK.

Close up of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1’s 8-megapixel camera and LED flash. Note also the ‘NOT FOR SALE’ message, printed in the lovely Comic Sans MS font.

An external mic sits next to the Galaxy Tab 10.1’s volume rocker. The mic is positioned on the top, to pick up your voice when you make a video call.

On the other side of the Tab 10.1 is the charging/connectivity port. The charging cable that comes with the unit we saw is similar to the one with the original Galaxy Tab, and allows you to connect to the mains and to other devices via USB.

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