The Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 tablet was released to the US market last week, and IT repairs website iFixit has given it a reparability seal of approval – something the iPad fell far short of achieving – while famous multi-tasker James Franco has been chosen as an ambassador for the device.
The new Galaxy Note 10.1 is similar in size to the both the iPad 2 and the new iPad 2, but it’s what’s inside that counts to iFixit, who tore apart the device to see how easily it could be repaired. Previously, the site was critical of the composition of newer iPad models, noting that the use of glue to attach the front glass made them difficult to repair.
Both the iPad 2 and the new iPad received a low 2 out of 10 on iFixit’s repairability scale, but the Samsung tablet scored a substantial 8 out of 10 thanks to its easily disassembled parts. Unlike the new iPad, the front glass in held in place using clips and can also be easily separated from the LCD for individual replacement. The device also uses Phillips screws and provides a modular internal layout, allowing for inexpensive repairing without the need for any specialised tools.
Image via iFixit
Apart from its reparability, what separates the Galaxy Note 10.1 from the iPad is the inclusion of a stylus and the ability to multi-task. The pressure-sensitive S Pen lets users write notes or manipulate the touchscreen with greater precision, while multi-screen functionality lets users perform two tasks simultaneously.
This is where James Franco comes in. Who better than the famous actor, writer, director, PhD student and all-round overachiever to showcase a device that focuses on doing more than just one thing at a time. Franco stars in the new advertisement for the device, which is expected to hit markets beyond the US soon.
UPDATE: The Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 is now available in Ireland. Well, we didn’t have to wait long for that!
