Galaxy Note and S Pen: Can a tweener smartphone-tablet succeed?

Analysts say stylus could help 5.3-in. Samsung device avoid problems that forced Dell to kill two Streak models

The 5.3-in. Samsung Galaxy Note, set to be available for AT&T's LTE network on Feb. 19, is called a smartphone, but its touchscreen and integrated S Pen stylus for drawing and taking notes elevates the device into a somewhat different category.

Priced at $299.99 with a two-year agreement, Galaxy Note runs Android 2.3. The manufacturer's Samsung Norway Facebook page has confirmed an Ice Cream Sandwich upgrade will arrive soon thereafter, though a company spokeswoman in the U.S. Tuesday wouldn't say when the new OS will be available for the Galaxy Note in this country.

The Galaxy Note also has an HD-quality video camera that has shot video footage slated to be shown in a television ad during Sunday's Super Bowl, Samsung said.

SOURCE: http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9223869/Galaxy_Note_and_S_Pen_Can_a_tweener_smartphone_tablet_succeed_