[jocampo]

Ok, so my impressions so far (after 24 hrs or so)...

1st, let me set up some expectations here in terms of why I bought this device and for what. This certainly help some folks before taking a decision and also hitting backs with comments ;-)

I did not buy this as a dedicated e-reader. Actually, even when I am extremely happy that B&N and Kindle android application run and install with zero issues, I was looking for an "on the go" tablet that I can use to read magazines and for business or even pleasure during my travels. In terms of hardware the iPad is a nice piece of technology but the weight, closed Apple environment and no Flash support were a major factor in ignoring it as an option. That's my humble opinion so no offense, iPad fans/ownner.

Screen, response and stability
The resolution on this device is really good. Images are crisp and well defined. I have no complains about it and really pleased on this particular aspect. Watching a movie or video is a nice experience. The response when using the "touch screen" is precise and fast, like the iPad I think. It did feel better than the Nook Color when I bought it back in December. Nothing has stopped or hang so far and I've download lot of Android apps but too soon before providing a solid argument on this. In my personal experience Froyo (Linux of course) is a very stable platform so I am not expecting major issues here (unless you install a crappy application that crashes the Os)

Android Market
Yes, full access! Galaxy Tablet is running Froyo and is not locked. I downloaded Kindle, B&N, AMEX, Bank of America, Chess, Texas Hold'em, Skype, you name it. They all work and add a great functionality to what came by default. This is the main reason why I wanted the Samsung and why cannot be compared to a dedicated eink reader. But for "on the go" Internet needs this tablet is awesome! I imagine this as a great tool for realtors (Google maps) or for Chemical Lab Sales representatives (because the fantastic calendar and organizer) just to mention a few posibilities that come to my mind.

The device's personality changes depending of what you get from Android Market making it perfect for your custom needs. This is why old Android tablets or locked systems are behind.

For those who are not familiar with Android it is just a different operating system than Windows or Apple Os which comes with the "Android Market". Android is just a Linux flavor.

Battery
Disappointed. Even with my clear expectations that this is not a Kindle 3, I was expecting better battery life but overall is not too bad and I do not consider that a deal breaker. It gave me about 5 hrs yesterday and after that, 7.5 today. Heavy wifi/3G usage yesterday and more mixed usage with some hours of Idle today. I just downloaded a few free Android Market I have on my HTC and I believe will improve battery in about an hour maybe? 60% of battery usage went into screen and 15% on games. 2% using Dolphine (tip, avoid Dolphine HD. Dolphine mini uses 40% less RAM and I am assuming less CPU and battery) So in real life, not fake or sales numbers by the company, we should expect about 8 hrs with this device (plus idle time , of course) So I would safely say that this tablet can survive a 8 hr working day without a single charge.

E-reader experience
Even though this is a tablet and not a dedicated ereader device I would like to say that reading books from B&N and Kindle is a nice experience. I do have landscape mode on both (missing in Nook Color so far) and nigh time option. Pages turn fast and their Kindle/B&N usage barely drained battery.

Feeling & weight
In my opinion, this is were this tablet is more strong. With 13 oz only feels like my old Nook. It is like having a small computer with me all the time, under my arm, with ereader and GPS capabilities. The size is good enough for Internet and emails and the keyboard is ok; you can use Swype with it too. I am seriously thinking in selling my really powerful Compaq laptop and upgrade my Ubuntu headless server instead. With Tmobile (not Verizon) the Bluetooth option is not locked so you can potentially use the Galaxy Tab with an external mouse and keyboard (need to test and confirm)

Overall, great, great tablet! Fantastic screen resolution, portable but not too small and full Froyo experience without any hack.