Two new Samsung Galaxy Player models coming to US

We haven't heard anything about the Samsung Galaxy Player since CES, when we got a brief hands-on look and were saddened to hear to device was meant for overseas markets only. Now Samsung has announced that it will be unveiling the slim and stylish Android media player are making their way stateside.

Today Samsung announced its new lineup and gave us a look at the new PMPs. Samsung will introduce 4- and 5-inch models, weighing five and seven ounces respectively. As we reported back at CES, the PMPs will feature Bluetooth 3.0 and Wi-Fi capabilities, front and rear cameras, touchscreen, and USB and mini SD ports. Clearly, the devices comes with the ability to enable VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) calling and Skype comes preinstalled.

The Galaxy Player is its OS

But what's in effect noteworthy about the Galaxy Player is its OS. The device is the first portable media device running Android that isn't a smartphone, and instead exactly devoted to digital content delivery. "Our Galaxy Family - including the Galaxy S mobile phones and Galaxy Tab - has been a success because we give people what they in point of fact wish for - access to thousands of Android Apps coupled with Samsung's sleep design," says Samsung exec Tim Baxter. "Our new Galaxy Players deliver that same experience in two terrific, ultra-portable form factors - without incurring fees for a monthly data plan."

Last of all, it's Android. It comes predisposed to a multitude of apps and both the 4- and 5-inch come with Froyo installed and according to Samsung "will be upgradeable to version 2.3." However we all know Samsung isn't the most reliable carrier when it comes to Android upgrades, so don't get your hearts set on speedy new OS installs. That said, aligning itself with the popular Galaxy S Android branding is a smart marketing move, and draws parallels between itself and the iPod Touch and iPhone. The only caveat we can see existing is price: If the Galaxy Player costs more than the iPod Touch, it could be a barrier some consumers just can't get their heads around.