Samsung officially announced the Galaxy A17 5G and Galaxy Tab A11+ on December 30, 2025, bringing AI-powered features like Circle to Search to its budget lineup. The Galaxy A17 5G starts at $199.99 and goes on sale January 7, while the Galaxy Tab A11+ launches January 8 at $249.99. Both devices mark Samsung’s push to democratize premium features, including six years of security updates and Google’s Gemini assistant.
What’s New
The Galaxy A17 5G is Samsung’s entry-level 5G smartphone featuring a 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, Exynos 1330 processor, and a 50MP main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS). It ships with 4GB RAM and 128GB storage, expandable via microSD up to 2TB. The device includes IP54 water resistance, Gorilla Glass Victus on the front, and a glass fiber-reinforced polymer back.
The Galaxy Tab A11+ features an 11-inch LCD display with 90Hz refresh rate, MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, and quad speakers with Dolby Atmos. Configurations include 6GB/128GB and 8GB/256GB, plus microSD expansion up to 2TB. The tablet debuts with Android 16 and supports Samsung DeX Standalone Edition for desktop-like productivity.
Both devices include Circle to Search the first time this AI feature appears on a Galaxy Tab A-series device. Users can long-press the home button and circle on-screen content to trigger Google searches without switching apps.
Why It Matters
Samsung’s decision to include Circle to Search and six-year update commitments on sub-$250 devices shifts expectations for budget Android hardware. Previously available only on flagship Galaxy S and select mid-range models, Circle to Search now reaches price-conscious users who want AI functionality without premium costs.
The Galaxy A17 5G also marks the first A-series phone with OIS on the main camera, addressing a longstanding complaint about Samsung’s budget camera quality. With 25W fast charging (50% in 30 minutes) and a 5,000mAh battery, it competes directly with mid-tier offerings from Motorola and OnePlus.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Galaxy A17 5G | Galaxy Tab A11+ |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.7″ FHD+ AMOLED, 90Hz | 11″ TFT LCD, 90Hz |
| Processor | Exynos 1330 | MediaTek Dimensity 7300 |
| RAM/Storage | 4GB/128GB | 6GB/128GB, 8GB/256GB |
| Battery | 5,000mAh, 25W charging | 7,040mAh, 25W charging |
| Main Camera | 50MP (OIS) + 5MP UW + 2MP Macro | 8MP rear, 5MP front |
| Durability | IP54, Gorilla Glass Victus | IP52, metal unibody |
| AI Features | Circle to Search, Gemini | Circle to Search, Gemini, DeX |
Availability and Pricing
Galaxy A17 5G launches January 7 at $199.99 (4GB/128GB) in Black, Blue, and Gray. It will be available at AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Metro by T-Mobile, Samsung.com, and major retailers. Samsung.com buyers receive up to 30% off Galaxy Buds3 FE or 10% off Galaxy Watch7.
Galaxy Tab A11+ goes on sale January 8 starting at $249.99. The Wi-Fi model ships in Gray and Silver, while a 5G version is available through major carriers. A Book Cover accessory with freestanding portrait and landscape modes is sold separately.
Both devices qualify for Samsung’s extended support policy: six years of security patches and six generations of One UI/Android upgrades. The A17 5G ships with Android (version unspecified), while the Tab A11+ debuts with Android 16.
What’s Next
Samsung has not announced global rollout dates beyond the U.S. market. The A17 5G is already confirmed for India at ₹18,999 (~$230) with higher-spec 6GB and 8GB RAM variants. European pricing for the Tab A11+ is estimated at €280 (~$295).
The company’s focus on budget AI integration suggests upcoming A-series refreshes may follow suit. With competitors like Motorola and Xiaomi aggressively pricing mid-range 5G phones, Samsung’s six-year update guarantee could become a key differentiator for users prioritizing device longevity over raw specs.
Featured Snippet Boxes
When do Samsung Galaxy A17 5G and Galaxy Tab A11+ go on sale?
Galaxy A17 5G launches January 7, 2025, at $199.99, while Galaxy Tab A11+ goes on sale January 8 at $249.99 through major U.S. carriers, Samsung.com, and retail partners.
Does the Galaxy A17 5G support Circle to Search?
Yes. Galaxy A17 5G includes Circle to Search, allowing users to long-press the home button and circle on-screen content for instant Google searches without switching apps.
What processor powers the Samsung Galaxy A17 5G?
The Galaxy A17 5G uses Samsung’s Exynos 1330 chipset, an octa-core processor designed for efficient 5G connectivity, HD streaming, and gaming on budget devices.
How many years of updates does Galaxy A17 5G receive?
Both Galaxy A17 5G and Tab A11+ are guaranteed six years of security updates and six generations of One UI and Android OS upgrades from their launch date.
