Samsung gets 7in tablet into Germany

Samsung showed its confidence in avoiding further Apple lawsuits in Germany on Tuesday by quietly launching the Galaxy Tab 7.0 Plus N. The new version teased earlier is identical to the Android 3.2 tablet we reviewed except for the telltale top and bottom borders that German courts have decided aren't copying Apple's technology. A 16GB Wi-Fi version is relatively expensive at 499 euros ($656) with tax, and it's joined by a 569-euro ($748) 3G version with HSPA+ inside.

The two are Samsung's first real seven-inch tablets in Germany since the original Galaxy Tab arrived roughly a year and a half ago. Samsung had unveiled the Galaxy Tab 7.7 in Germany, but it was forced to pull it from the IFA floor and couldn't sell it after Apple objected to the similarity before it had even reached the market.

Samsung's designs sold everywhere else are banned in Germany until final verdicts in relevant trials. Apple successfully argued that the all-black, all-flat front design was too close to design rights for the iPad and needed to change. A Tab 10.1N is already in German stores and is so far safe to sell based on principles that should clear the Tab Plus 7.0N as well.

By Electronista Staff