Samsung is releasing a Game Edition of their Galaxy Tab 3, which includes the company’s recently released Smartphone GamePad, a Galaxy Tab 3 8.0 and a HDMI adaptor. The GamePad is a physical console-like controller that allows for tablet free gameplay when paired to an Android device running Android 4.1 and up.
German website All About Samsung got an exclusive look at Samsung’s upcoming bundle, which is looking to do much more than move Galaxy Tab 3 8.0 devices. The GamePad is part of a larger bid to get customers gaming on TV’s and any smartphone or tablet with Bluetooth or NFC capability. The Galaxy Tab 3 Game Edition comes with a HDMI adaptor, presumably so that users can connect their Tab 3’s to a HDMI capable TV or display, moving the game from your pocket directly into your living room.
The Smartphone GamePad pairs with any Android device running Android 4.1 or newer via Bluetooth. A host of GamePad compatible games are currently available, with 35 games at the moment and tons more rolling out in 2014. The GamePad is currently only available in Europe, and will be rolling out around the world in the coming weeks.
While official pricing of the Game Edition Tab 3 has not been released, Mobile Geeks reports that the GamePad itself runs 80 euros, and the Galaxy Tab 3 240 euros. Added together that 320 euros, or about $430. We can expect the price point to remain in that range.
There’s still no word if the GamePad will work with Android gaming consoles such as Ouya or M.O.J.O, but since the device operates on Bluetooth, that should be no problem.
Samsung Enhances Consumer Entertainment Experience with Smartphone GamePad and Mobile Console Application
December 17, 2013
Samsung enables users to enjoy advanced console-quality games with their mobile devices at home and on-the-go
SEOUL, Korea – December 17, 2013 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, a leader in mobile technology and digital solutions, today introduced the Smartphone GamePad and Mobile Console app to enhance the gaming experience on Samsung’s popular line of Galaxy devices. Launched in response to the rapidly expanding global mobile gaming market, Smartphone GamePad provides consumers with a fun, convenient, and advanced gaming experience anytime, anywhere.
The Smartphone GamePad instantly transforms the user’s Galaxy smartphone or tablet into a portable gaming console or even a home console. Through its premium, easy-to-carry design and durable steel frame, GamePad is attachable to mobile devices ranging from 4-inches to 6.3-inches, allowing users to play games wherever they are. Users can also connect Galaxy devices to their TV through an HDMI cable or AllShare Screen Mirroring for video game console experience from their living room.
GamePad easily connects with smartphones and tablets through Bluetooth pairing. The most convenient features optimized for Samsung Galaxy devices running Android 4.3 such as Galaxy Note 3, S4, Note II, and S III enable easy connectivity with GamePad via NFC tag and quicker access to games via the “PLAY” button.
With just a tap of the “PLAY” button, users can easily access the Mobile Console app, Samsung’s new integrated game launching app that opens in conjunction with GamePad to allow users to conveniently browse and purchase game pad supported games. Users can save money by enjoying reasonably priced console-quality games without the expense of additional gaming systems, as Mobile Console features games across a variety of categories including traditional racing titles such as EA’s Need for Speed™ Most Wanted and Gameloft’s Asphalt8 : Airborne, first-person shooter titles such as Gameloft’s Modern Combat 4 : Zero Hour, sports titles such as SEGA’s Virtua Tennis™ Challenge, and action titles such as Ubisoft’s Prince of Persia : The Shadow and the Flame. The Mobile Console app is available for download through Samsung Apps or by tapping the GamePad’s ”PLAY” button, and offers 35 dedicated games at launch with much more to come in 2014.
The GamePad is is currently available in select European markets and will be available in additional regions in the coming weeks. The availability of the GamePad varies by market.
Samsung Smartphone GamePad Product Specifications
Compatibility
Android OS 4.1 more (Optimized for Samsung devices with Android 4.3 more)
Connectivity
Bluetooth® v3.0, NFC(Samsung devices with Android 4.3 more)
3.0 class 2, HID
Control Keys
– D-Pad (8 way)
– 2 Analog Sticks
– 4 Action buttons and 2 Trigger buttons
– Select button and Start button
– PLAY button (Samsung devices with Android 4.3 more)
Dimension
137.78 x 86.47 x 31.80mm, 195g
Battery
Rechargeable 160mA
Color
Black