Samsung tipped to launch Windows RT tablet in October

Samsung is working on a Windows RT tablet, which will launch later this year, as the firm tries to lure business users away from the iPad.

The Windows RT device made by the Korean manufacturer will be powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon processor and will go on sale in October, according to Bloomberg.

No other key specifications have been revealed, but Samsung's tablets are likely to have a similar form factor to Microsoft's own-brand Surface devices that have been confirmed to have a 10.6in display and 1,366 x 768 resolution.

Samsung is taking a different strategy from HP, which has said it will initially focus on providing x86-based Windows 8 devices for businesses.

Samsung has had huge success in the mobile market, becoming the leading phone maker in the world thanks to the success of its Galaxy S handset range. However, it is yet to translate this success to the tablet market, with its Android-based Galaxy Tab range failing to win over iPad users.

It remains to be seen whether Samsung's Windows RT tablets will be able to attract a large user base, as Google and Amazon are both gearing up to release budget devices.

Google is to start shipping its 159 h Nexus 7 device imminently. Amazon is preparing to release the second generation of its Kindle Fire tablet, which is expected to be launched internationally instead of being restricted to the US.

The Amazon device is set to feature an enhanced display with a resolution of 1,280 x 800 pixels, and is penciled in for a Q3 launch, according to AllThingsD.

The online retailer has had phenomenal success with its tablet in the US, where it has been selling the 7in device for $199. Amazon has used its vast ecosystem to entice users. The firm is able to provide access to millions of books and songs, as well as thousands of movies and TV shows.

With Apple also rumoured to be working on a smaller version of the iPad to compete with its budget rivals, the launch of Windows RT devices could be overshadowed.