I've been thinking a lot about the Tab (as though that needs to be said). One may go as far as proclaiming obsession -- though I plead a staunch denial at such blatherings. But I think I know why the I like, nigh, love the Tab (or the idea of it anyway) so much:

It seems to be the best example of a consumer-grade convergence device to date.

Don't get me wrong, there are PLENTY of devices that do what the Tab does, however the design decision that make up the Tab seem to be in such perfect harmony, its functionality so complete, and it's implementation so polished, that it stands alone among its competitors as the choicest of electronics.

Yes, the Galaxy Tab is like a larger Galaxy S, but that's a good thing. It finds the sweet spot in size and portability and simultaneously replaces so many devices -- casual camera, media player, phone, navigator, gaming unit, e-book reader, PIM device, email device, full web browsing device, video chat device, media centre remote, picture frame, alarm clock, etc -- and the android market ensures that there are many more uses still. But even out of the box, it should provide a very complete experience and put smiles on faces.

Although there's an extra step to rooting the device, I suppose effort is generally required in any customization and rooting is a simple one-click ordeal and thus quite a painless step. The beauty is that, as a tinkerer, I do not have to forgo the wonders of the Linux CLI, or even X on this device (I'm still hoping for a native X client)! The benefit is that we get the best of both worlds -- a worthy compromise for purchasing a 'somewhat closed' device.

Lastly, Android is a wonderfully evolving environment that has a some equally wonderful additions on the horizon. I'm really a fan of some of the design decisions that went into the OS even if they clash with tradition. It's comforting to know that even when Samsung has moved on to the next iteration of devices, the Tab will in all likelihood have community support and receive the benefit of the latest and greatest.

As a convergence device, the Tab, IMO is tops. Even at $599, considering the abundance of applications it potentially replaces and the general finesse of execution, it's a downright bargain, and will be a powerful addition to my arsenal. Sure, it's not perfect, and certainly not a perfect fit for everyones needs, but it's hard to complain about this most promising of devices.