It is always risky to publish a story based on rumors but this one could make sense. According to a flyer that appeared online, Samsung plans to release a $399 version of its Galaxy Tab device in April 4.

Samsung has not confirmed the existence of such a device, but a flyer appeared on Friday online at the droid-life.com blog showing a wi-fi only Galaxy Tab scheduled to be released on the 4th of April at $399.



As you can see the device is projected to be based on Google Android version 2.2 awill feature 7" screen, single-core ARM microprocessor and similar graphics technology that powers the original 3G and Wi-Fi-enabled Galaxy Tab.

Apple's competitors are planning to release tablets based on Google's Android OS but it is hard for them to match the iPad's starting price of $499 (Wi-fi only, 16GB model). Until now, tablets that were comparable to the iPad in features cost hundreds of dollars more, while cheaper tablets were inferior to the iPad in quality.

For example, Motorola's Xoom sells for $800, or $600 if the buyer agrees to a two-year data service contract with Verizon Wireless.

Samsung's original Galaxy Tab is half the size of the iPad, yet costs $500. And that price is only available if the buyer pays an activation fee and signs up for at least one month of data service from Verizon, at a minimum total cost of $55. The specific tablet can be had for as little as $300, but that requires two years of data service, or hundreds of dollars in fees. So it would certainly make sense for Samsung to release a new $399 Samsung Tab device. But we most probably have to wait some more days to learn about Samsung's official plans.