Samsung has refreshed its flagship tablet portfolio with the Galaxy Tab S12 series, introducing upgraded hardware, improved AI capabilities and larger displays while making a notable change to its product lineup. The new generation consists of the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and Galaxy Tab S12+, leaving out the standard Galaxy Tab S12 model and shifting the focus towards premium devices.
Both tablets are powered by MediaTek's Dimensity 9500 processor and feature AMOLED displays, S Pen support and productivity-focused software. The updated range is designed for users who need a tablet for multitasking, creative work, entertainment and professional applications. However, higher prices mean buyers will need to consider whether the improvements justify the additional expense.
Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra Focuses on Performance and Display Size
The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra is the flagship device in Samsung's latest tablet lineup. It features a 14.6-inch AMOLED display and a slim 5.1mm profile, offering a large workspace for viewing content, editing documents and running multiple applications.
Samsung has equipped the tablet with the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset. Compared with the Dimensity 9400+ used in the previous-generation Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra, the new processor is claimed to deliver a 19% improvement in CPU performance, a 17% increase in GPU performance and a 61% improvement in neural processing unit performance.
The tablet supports expandable storage through a microSD card slot. Configurations include 12GB of RAM with 256GB or 512GB of storage, alongside a higher-end option featuring 16GB of RAM and 1TB of internal storage.
Other notable features include Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, an additional 8-megapixel ultra-wide rear camera and an in-display fingerprint reader. The device is priced between Rs 1,49,999 and Rs 1,84,999 in India, depending on the configuration.
Galaxy Tab S12+ Brings a Mid-Sized Premium Option
The Galaxy Tab S12+ provides an alternative for consumers who want a large-screen tablet without choosing the Ultra model. It features a 12.6-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, designed to deliver smooth scrolling and responsive visuals.
Like the Ultra, the Plus model uses the Dimensity 9500 processor and includes 12GB of RAM. Buyers can choose between 256GB and 512GB of internal storage, with microSD expansion supporting capacities of up to 2TB.
A 10,600mAh battery powers the tablet, with Samsung claiming up to 21 hours of battery life under its stated usage conditions. Pricing starts at Rs 1,29,999 and reaches Rs 1,64,999 for the higher-priced configurations.
The return of the Plus model also changes the balance of Samsung's flagship tablet family compared with the previous generation, which included the standard Tab S11 and the Tab S11 Ultra.
S Pen, DeX and AI Features Support Productivity
Both Galaxy Tab S12 models include an S Pen that attaches magnetically to the tablet. They also offer IP68-rated water and dust resistance, quad-speaker audio and Samsung DeX, which provides a desktop-style interface for compatible workflows.
Quick Share is another part of the software experience, with expanded compatibility intended to make file transfers between supported devices more convenient. Samsung is also incorporating AI-powered features to support productivity and creative tasks.
Optional keyboard accessories provide additional flexibility for people who want to use their tablets for typing and work. The devices are therefore positioned as more than entertainment screens, particularly for users who regularly switch between note-taking, document editing and multitasking.
Why the Missing Standard Model Matters
The absence of a standard Galaxy Tab S12 is one of the biggest changes in Samsung's latest tablet strategy. Instead of offering three distinct flagship options, the company is concentrating on two premium models with larger displays and higher starting prices.
This approach reflects a broader emphasis on higher-end tablet experiences, where manufacturers compete through performance, displays, software features and productivity tools. However, the decision may leave buyers looking for a more affordable flagship-sized Samsung tablet with fewer direct options in the new generation.
The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra and Tab S12+ became available in India from October 7, 2026. Their appeal will ultimately depend on individual needs, especially whether buyers value the upgraded processing power, larger displays and productivity features enough to justify the premium pricing.
For consumers considering an upgrade, the new lineup offers substantial hardware capabilities, but the removal of the standard model makes price and screen size more important factors in choosing between Samsung's latest flagship tablets.
