Samsung's galaxy tab s12 ultra signals a shift – firmware testing hints at a major upgrade

Samsung is ramping up development on its next-generation Galaxy Tab series, with early firmware testing of the highly anticipated Tab S12 Ultra indicating significant advancements. The leaks, initially surfacing back in February with model name speculation, are now solidifying with confirmed testing activity on Indian servers.

Fresh firmware signals a potential redesign

On April 24th, SammyGuru spotted the SM-X946B model, the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra, undergoing firmware testing with build number X946BXXU0AZDN. This suggests that Samsung is actively moving towards launch, though development on the Tab S12+ remains ongoing. The timing aligns with expectations for a broader Z Fold/Z Flip Unpacked event later this year, potentially around July or August.

Details remain scarce, but initial reports point towards a substantial battery upgrade – a jump from the 10,090mAh found in the Tab S10+ to a projected 10,500-10,600mAh. Beyond that, the design remains largely unconfirmed, with indications suggesting the display size might be carried over from the existing S8 series, despite previous launches.

What we really want to see

Let’s be frank: the market is saturated with similarly spec’d tablets. What would truly entice a consumer to upgrade to either the Tab S12+ or the S12 Ultra? Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 Elite power is non-negotiable. A significantly larger battery, as rumored, would be a welcome addition. And, frankly, Samsung needs to shake up the design. A truly innovative approach, perhaps incorporating a tandem OLED screen or substantially faster charging – 80W or more – would finally justify the premium price tag.

The current landscape sees the Tab S10+ priced at $1,099.99 and the Tab S11 Ultra at $1,299.99, figures that could easily carry over to the new models. While Samsung’s recent pricing strategy has been…uninspired, a surprise upgrade could drive sales. The brand’s continued dominance in the iPad alternative space hinges on delivering tangible improvements, not just incremental tweaks. It's a precarious balance, and one that Samsung must navigate carefully.

Size changes are questionable. The tech giant has stuck to the same display size since the Galaxy Tab S8, which debuted in February 2022. Given how little risk the brand has been taking over the past few years, the upcoming lineup may be visually identical to the previous generation (and the one before).

Ultimately, the battle for tablet supremacy boils down to value. And right now, Samsung's offering – despite its strengths – feels like a familiar proposition.