The Samsung Galaxy Note 8 is a smooth, functional number (pictures)

BARCELONA, Spain--The Galaxy Note 8 is the latest in Samsung's highly successful Note series of tablets and "phablets." Internationally the Note 8 will continue to honor its phablet lineage; however, in the U.S. it'll be a full-on Wi-Fi-only tablet.

The Note 8 feels different than a typical 7-inch tablet. It's noticeably wider, of course, but still feels comfortable in my hands. It's a simple, elegant design with really smooth edges and corners.

The Note 8 has a 5-megapixel camera. Just keep your fingers from blocking the lens.

S Note makes a return and there's some new functionality with Flipboard where hovering the S-Pen over tiles delivers headline previews.

On the left edge is an IR blaster, supporting Peel's Smart Remote software, along with a volume rocker and power/sleep button.

The S-Pen fits into a slot on the Note 8's bottom edge.

On the right edge sits the microSD card slot.

You can use the S-Pen to take notes, select menu items, and even doodle.

The Note 8 is fairly thin, and at 0.74 pound, it's only slightly heavier than the iPad Mini.