Samsung claims its R1 'beat' player is the slimmest and lightest DivX-compatible portable multimedia player yet, which means users can play DivX content without the time-wasting step of converting files. The R1 is also the first DivX-compatible player to boast a touchscreen, measuring 2.6-inches, that allows the device to incorporate the TouchWiz user interface (UI) also found in other Samsung devices like the Jet and Memoir mobile phones.

Samsung refers to the R1 as a ‘beat’ player because of the inclusion of a ‘Beat DJ’ feature, which allows budding artists to add their own voice and sound effects to their favorite songs as well as ‘scratch’ records using a virtual turntable on the touchscreen. The player also includes Samsung’s Digital Natural Sound Engine (DNSe) 3.0, measures just 8.9mm thick, weighs in at 50g, and will be available in 8GB or 16GB capacities.

There’s no word on price yet, but further details are likely to be forthcoming at the IFA trade show in Berlin from 4-9 September, where Samsung will be showcasing the device. However, it has been revealed that the R1 will be available in Europe sometime this month, with other markets to follow.