03 September 2010 | Author: D. Warburton Search Copywriter

Samsung and Toshiba unveil tablets to challenge iPad

More technology leaders have unveiled tablet computers to rival Apple's iPad at this week's IFA tech show in Berlin.

Samsung and Toshiba demonstrated their tablet computers at the event, which both run on the Android 2.2 operating system, after Android developer Google previewed its own tablet design earlier this year.

BBC technology correspondent Rory Cellan-Jones explained that both the Samsung Galaxy Tab and Toshiba Folio 100 could provide effective competition to Apple due to their ability to play Flash video and their more compact size, with Samsung's model measuring just seven inches.

Samsung unveiled its new product on Thursday, dubbed "the first of the company's tablet devices" - suggesting more will be forthcoming.

The company's head of mobile communications, JK Shin, stated: "Samsung recognises the tremendous growth potential in this newly-created market and we believe that the Samsung Galaxy Tab brings a unique and open proposition to market.

"There is a new and emerging consumer demand that Samsung can satisfy since mobile is in our DNA."

Toshiba's device is noticeably larger than Samsung's and even the iPad, measuring 10.1 inches, but according to the Bangkok Post, this could be more than made up for in affordability. The Toshiba Folio 100 will reportedly sell for 399 euros (£333), half the cost of the Galaxy Tab which could retail in Germany for 799 euros (£666).

Samsung's South Korean rival LG Electronics has also announced plans to release its own tablet computer before the end of 2010, which is also expected to run on Android.

Other companies hoping to enter the lucrative new market include Microsoft, with its Courier product, Hewlett-Packard's Slate and Dell's Stealth, though with its five-inch screen the latter blurs the line between tablet and smartphone.

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