Jessica Dolcourt is a passionate content strategist and veteran leader of CNET coverage. As Senior Director of Commerce & Content Operations, she leads a number of teams, including Commerce, How-To and Performance Optimization. Her CNET career began in 2006, testing desktop and mobile software for Download.com and CNET, including the first iPhone and Android apps and operating systems. She continued to review, report on and write a wide range of commentary and analysis on all things phones, with an emphasis on iPhone and Samsung. Jessica was one of the first people in the world to test, review and report on foldable phones and 5G wireless speeds.
Jessica began leading CNET's How-To section for tips and FAQs in 2019, guiding coverage of topics ranging from personal finance to phones and home. She holds an MA with Distinction from the University of Warwick (UK).
ExpertiseContent strategy, team leadership, audience engagement, iPhone, Samsung, Android, iOS, tips and FAQs.
For those who want the calling and messaging capabilities of a phone, but the screen real estate of a tablet, Samsung gives you the best of both worlds. The Samsung Galaxy Note, a hybrid of both devices, debuted at CES 2012. In addition to its 5.3-inch HD AMOLED screen is something we never thought we'd see again: a stylus.
Thanks to its large size, it's ideal for watching movies, tablet writing, and giving your fingers a workout.
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And action!
The Galaxy Note's screen can sense 256 different levels of pressure from its stylus, so the harder you write, the bolder your strokes will be.
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Holding the Galaxy Note
It's big, but for those of you with larger paws, it might be just the ticket.
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Back view
Like other phones in the Galaxy family, AT&T's Galaxy Note boasts an 8-megapixel camera on its back. A 2-megapixel front-facing camera sits above the screen.
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Just as we remember
The stylus tucks neatly into the bottom of the Galaxy Note, just like it did way back when. Those who find it too small or flimsy will be able to purchase a pen accessory that fits over the wand.
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Side view
Despite its large face, the slim design makes it possible to wield.
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Using the Galaxy Note for a phone call
It could be a little awkward on the ear for some.
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How big is big?
Pictured here alongside a 4.5-inch Samsung Galaxy S II Skyrocket, the Galaxy Note looks like a better-fed sibling.
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Piggyback
The Galaxy Note's thickness remains relatively similar to other Samsung Galaxy phones, such as the Samsung Galaxy S II Skyrocket (top).
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For doodlers
The Galaxy Note comes with two memo apps. S Memo, pictured here, has cursive and print handwriting recognition, among other features.
