The Galaxy Tab S12+ and Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra are now official, as Samsung closes out September with two new high-end tablets that put artificial intelligence front and center. Both devices feature a new MediaTek processor optimized for AI tasks and come with the S Pen included, marking a significant push into AI-driven productivity and creativity.
Display and Design: A Tale of Two Sizes
At first glance, the two tablets share a nearly identical design language, but the Ultra model stands out with its larger 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, while the S12+ settles for a 12.6-inch panel. Both screens offer a 120 Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1,600 nits, ensuring excellent visibility for multimedia, gaming, or work.
Despite its larger footprint, the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra is actually thinner than its sibling, measuring just 5.1 mm in thickness—making it the thinnest tablet in Samsung's current lineup. For comparison, the 2025 iPad Air is 6.1 mm thick. However, the Ultra is heavier at 692 grams (Wi-Fi only), versus 553 grams for the S12+.

Performance and AI Features
Under the hood, both tablets are powered by a new MediaTek chipset that Samsung says is optimized for AI workloads. This enables advanced on-device AI capabilities, though specific details about the processor model and AI features were not disclosed in the announcement.

What is clear is that Samsung is betting big on AI as a differentiator. The inclusion of Adobe Photoshop for the first time on an Android tablet—optimized for the S Pen—signals that these devices are aimed at creative professionals and power users who want desktop-class software on a tablet.
Software and S Pen Integration
The S Pen is included with both models, continuing Samsung's tradition of bundling its stylus with flagship tablets. With Adobe Photoshop optimized for the S Pen, users can expect precise pressure sensitivity and low latency for drawing and photo editing.
This move could make the Galaxy Tab S12 series a compelling alternative to the iPad Pro for artists and designers, especially those who prefer Android's flexibility.
Pricing and Availability
The Galaxy Tab S12+ and S12 Ultra will be available starting October 7, with prices starting at 1,299 euros. Samsung has not yet announced US pricing or availability, but we expect more details to emerge closer to launch. Context on how this played out before sits in Galaxy Tab S12+ and S12 Ultra: AI-Powered Tablets With S Pen.
Key Takeaways
- Galaxy Tab S12+ and S12 Ultra feature Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with 120 Hz refresh rate and 1,600 nits brightness.
- The Ultra model has a 14.6-inch screen and is just 5.1 mm thick, making it Samsung's thinnest tablet.
- Both tablets run on a new MediaTek processor optimized for AI and include the S Pen.
- Adobe Photoshop arrives on Android tablets for the first time, optimized for S Pen.
- Available October 7, starting at 1,299 euros.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Galaxy Tab S12+ | Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 12.6 inches | 14.6 inches |
| Resolution | Not specified | 2,960 x 1,848 pixels |
| Refresh Rate | 120 Hz | 120 Hz |
| Brightness | 1,600 nits | 1,600 nits |
| Thickness | Not specified | 5.1 mm |
| Weight (Wi-Fi) | 553 g | 692 g |
| Processor | MediaTek (AI-optimized) | MediaTek (AI-optimized) |
| S Pen | Included | Included |
| Price (starting) | 1,299 euros | 1,299 euros |
What This Means for the Tablet Market
Samsung's new tablets arrive at a time when AI is becoming a key selling point for consumer electronics. By integrating an AI-optimized processor and bringing Adobe Photoshop to Android, Samsung is positioning the Galaxy Tab S12 series as serious tools for creativity and productivity. The background to this story is set out in Trending: latest articles. A related thread runs through Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra Review: A Massive 14.6-Inch Android Tablet.
The pricing, starting at 1,299 euros, places these tablets in direct competition with the iPad Pro and other premium Android tablets. It remains to be seen how consumers respond, but the inclusion of the S Pen and AI features could give Samsung an edge. Earlier coverage in Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Discount: Triple Stacked Savings shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in Best Foldable Phones 2026: Which One to Buy and Top Models.
We'll be watching for more details on the AI capabilities and real-world performance as the October 7 launch approaches. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Premium Phones in 2026: Why Prices Keep Climbing. The same theme surfaces in Tablets in 2026: Why Sales Are Falling and What Comes Next, which takes a different angle.
FAQ
What are the main differences between the Galaxy Tab S12+ and S12 Ultra?
The Ultra has a larger 14.6-inch display and is thinner at 5.1 mm, while the S12+ has a 12.6-inch screen. The Ultra is also heavier at 692 grams versus 553 grams for the S12+.
Do the Galaxy Tab S12 tablets come with the S Pen?
Yes, both models include the S Pen, which is optimized for use with Adobe Photoshop.
When will the Galaxy Tab S12+ and S12 Ultra be available?
They will be available starting October 7, with prices starting at 1,299 euros.
What processor do the Galaxy Tab S12 tablets use?
Both tablets feature a new MediaTek processor optimized for AI tasks, though the specific model was not announced.