The next-generation Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 got its official U.S. launch today, with general availability to start on April 22.

Samsung will ship the updated 7-inch model first, followed by the 10.1-inch model on May 13.

The Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 will be available starting at US$399.99, which is a price drop from the $450 price for its predecessor. The Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 will start at $249.99.

The new tablets come with Google's Android 4.0 OS, which provides usability, graphics and multitasking improvements.

The GALAXY Tab 2 series will be available in 3G and WiFi versions. Aside from bumping up the screen resolution of its LCD to 1280 x 800, from 1024 x 600 on the 7.0, the 10.1 features the same 1Ghz dual-core processor, 1GB of RAM, Bluetooth 3.0 connectivity, front and rear cameras (VGA and 3-megapixels, respectively) and 21Mbps HSPA+ connectivity. The 10.1-incher also comes equipped with a 7,000 mAh battery (up from 4,000 on the 7.0). The Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 weighs 581 grams with battery, while the 7.0 tablet weighs 344 grams. The 10.1 tablet has storage capacity of up to 32GB, and the 7.0 model has up to 8GB. A new IR blaster also turns the tablets into smart remotes to control home entertainment systems.

The devices feature an integrated IR blaster for universal remote capabilities, as well as an accessible memory card slot. The Smart Remote App and built-in IR Blaster turns the Tab 2 into a universal smart remote. Users can choose from apps, access movies and TV shows from Google Play or Media Hub, and surf web pages with Adobe Flash support. In addition, the Galaxy Tab 2 products are fully Google certified for complete access to Google Play (formerly Android Marketplace).

Samsung also announced the release of two new Galaxy Players. Available in 4.2 inch WVGA screen or 3.6 inch HVGA screen variants, the devices can be uded to play games, watch videos or listen to music. They can be connected to Wi-Fi networks or just with other devices using USB 2.0 or Bluetooth 3.0 connectivity. The Galaxy Players run on Android 2.3, Gingerbread and feature a micro SD card.

Plus the Galaxy Player 4.2 comes with dual-stereo speakers.

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