The Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 is a stalwart in the world of Android tablets, offering a blend of performance, portability, and affordability. But how old is this device, exactly? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the Galaxy Tab 4, exploring its release date, design, and features, as well as its place in the grand scheme of Samsung’s tablet lineup.
A Brief History of the Galaxy Tab 4
The Galaxy Tab 4 was announced in April 2014, with a global release following shortly thereafter. This Android-based tablet was positioned as a mid-range device, aimed at consumers seeking a reliable and feature-packed tablet without breaking the bank. Available in three sizes – 7.0, 8.0, and 10.1 inches – the Galaxy Tab 4 catered to a diverse range of users, from students to professionals and everyone in between.
Design and Build Quality
One of the standout aspects of the Galaxy Tab 4 is its sleek and durable design. The device boasts a plastic body with a textured back, providing a comfortable grip and a premium feel. The Tab 4’s dimensions vary depending on the model, but all three sizes feature a slim profile, making them easy to carry around.
| Model | Dimensions (mm) | Weight (g) |
| — | — | — |
| 7.0 | 186.9 x 107.9 x 9.0 | 276 |
| 8.0 | 212.8 x 124.4 x 8.0 | 320 |
| 10.1 | 243.7 x 176.4 x 7.9 | 489 |
The Galaxy Tab 4’s design was a significant improvement over its predecessors, with a more streamlined look and a reduced weight that made it easier to handle.
Display and Performance
The Galaxy Tab 4’s display is one of its strongest suits, with vibrant colors and crisp text rendering. The 7.0-inch model features a 1280 x 800 resolution, while the 8.0-inch and 10.1-inch models boast a higher 1280 x 800 and 1920 x 1200 resolution, respectively. Powered by a quad-core processor and 1.5 GB of RAM, the Tab 4 provides smooth performance for most tasks, including web browsing, gaming, and multimedia consumption.
The Galaxy Tab 4’s display was praised for its bright and vibrant colors, making it an excellent choice for streaming movies and browsing the web.
Features and Software
The Galaxy Tab 4 runs on Android 4.4.2 KitKat out of the box, with a subsequent upgrade to Android 5.0.2 Lollipop. In terms of features, the device includes:
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Bluetooth 4.0
- Micro-USB port
- 3.15-megapixel rear camera
- 1.3-megapixel front camera
- MicroSD card slot (up to 128 GB)
- 4050mAh battery (10.1-inch model)
The Galaxy Tab 4’s feature set was well-suited for its target audience, offering a balance of connectivity options, camera capabilities, and storage expansion.
Samsung’s Special Features
The Galaxy Tab 4 also includes a range of Samsung-specific features, including:
- Multi Window: allows users to split the screen and run multiple apps simultaneously
- SideSync: enables seamless connectivity and file transfer between the Tab 4 and a user’s Samsung smartphone
- Hancom Office: a suite of productivity apps, including word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software
Samsung’s proprietary features added significant value to the Galaxy Tab 4, making it a more appealing option for users seeking a comprehensive tablet experience.
Place in Samsung’s Tablet Lineup
The Galaxy Tab 4 was positioned as a mid-range device, slotting in between the budget-friendly Galaxy Tab 3 and the high-end Galaxy Note series. This placement allowed Samsung to cater to a wider range of consumers, offering a device that was both affordable and feature-packed.
Comparison to Other Samsung Tablets
| Model | Release Date | Price (Launch) |
| — | — | — |
| Galaxy Tab 3 | July 2013 | $199 (7.0-inch) |
| Galaxy Tab 4 | April 2014 | $199 (7.0-inch) |
| Galaxy Tab S | June 2014 | $399 (10.5-inch) |
| Galaxy Note 10.1 | August 2012 | $499 |
The Galaxy Tab 4 filled a crucial gap in Samsung’s tablet lineup, providing a reliable and affordable option for consumers seeking a high-quality Android device.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 is a testament to the company’s dedication to creating high-quality Android devices that cater to a diverse range of consumers. With its sleek design, vibrant display, and feature-packed software, this tablet remains a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and affordable Android device. Although it may not be the latest and greatest in Samsung’s tablet lineup, the Galaxy Tab 4 is an excellent option for those looking for a tried-and-true Android powerhouse.
In conclusion, the Galaxy Tab 4 may be an older device, but its age is merely a testament to its enduring appeal and Samsung’s commitment to crafting exceptional Android tablets.
What is the Galaxy Tab 4?
The Galaxy Tab 4 is a line of Android-based tablets developed and manufactured by Samsung Electronics. The series was announced in April 2014 and consists of three models: the 7-inch, 8-inch, and 10.1-inch variants. The Galaxy Tab 4 is positioned as a mid-range tablet, offering a balance of performance, features, and affordability.
The Galaxy Tab 4 is powered by a 1.2GHz or 1.4GHz quad-core processor, depending on the model, and features up to 1.5GB of RAM. It runs on Android 4.4 KitKat out of the box and is upgradable to Android 5.0 Lollipop. The tablet also features a range of storage options, from 8GB to 16GB, expandable via a microSD card slot.
How old is the Galaxy Tab 4?
The Galaxy Tab 4 was released in 2014, which makes it approximately 8 years old as of 2022. Despite its age, the tablet remains a popular choice among users who want a reliable and affordable Android device.
Although the Galaxy Tab 4 is no longer a cutting-edge device, it still receives occasional software updates and security patches from Samsung. Additionally, its mid-range specifications make it suitable for general use, such as browsing the web, streaming media, and running casual apps.
Is the Galaxy Tab 4 still supported by Samsung?
The Galaxy Tab 4 is no longer actively supported by Samsung, which means it will not receive new software updates or security patches. However, Samsung has provided occasional updates in the past to address critical security vulnerabilities.
It’s essential to note that the lack of official support does not necessarily mean the tablet is unusable. Many users continue to use their Galaxy Tab 4 without issues, and there are also community-developed custom ROMs and modifications available for the device.
Can I still use the Galaxy Tab 4 for everyday tasks?
Yes, the Galaxy Tab 4 can still be used for everyday tasks such as browsing the internet, checking emails, and streaming media. The tablet’s mid-range specifications and Android operating system make it suitable for general use.
However, users may notice that the tablet’s performance is not as smooth as newer devices, and some apps may not be optimized for the Tab 4’s hardware. Additionally, the tablet’s older Android version may not support the latest apps and services.
Can I upgrade the Galaxy Tab 4’s operating system?
The Galaxy Tab 4’s operating system can be upgraded to Android 5.0 Lollipop, but it will not receive newer versions of Android. Samsung has discontinued official software support for the device, and newer versions of Android are not compatible with the Tab 4’s hardware.
Users can consider installing custom ROMs or modifications to upgrade the tablet’s operating system, but this may void the device’s warranty and potentially cause stability issues.
Is the Galaxy Tab 4 suitable for gaming?
The Galaxy Tab 4 is not an ideal device for gaming, as its mid-range specifications and older graphics processing unit (GPU) may struggle to handle demanding games.
However, the tablet can still run casual games and less demanding titles, such as puzzle games or retro games. Users can also consider adjusting the game’s graphics settings to improve performance.
Should I buy a used Galaxy Tab 4?
Buying a used Galaxy Tab 4 can be a cost-effective option for those who want an affordable Android tablet. However, it’s essential to ensure that the device is in good condition, with minimal wear and tear, and that it has not been rooted or modded.
Additionally, buyers should be aware of the tablet’s limitations, including its older Android version and mid-range specifications. It’s also crucial to purchase the device from a reputable seller and to check the warranty and return policies.