Samsung is reportedly bringing forward a key device launch by several weeks to steal a march on arch-rival Apple.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the Korean vendor hopes to get more attention for its latest Galaxy Note phablet ahead of the next iPhone’s debut, expected in mid-September.

But the tactic is surprising given Samsung has established a regular – and successful – routine in recent years of launching the Galaxy Note during the IFA Berlin event in early September. This year’s show is 4-9 September.

Bringing forward the Galaxy Note launch to mid-August would involve breaking with that tradition.

Similarly, Samsung’s routine involves launching its flagship Galaxy S smartphone during the GSMA’s Mobile World Congress event in March.

Having a regular rhythm to its launch cycle pleases suppliers, distributors and operators because they can tailor their own strategies to fit. It also enables the public to make their own upgrade plans.

However, such is the behemoth of an iPhone launch that perhaps Samsung felt it needs to shake things up to give the Galaxy Note more media and consumer attention. Maybe it is also an attempt to put Apple off its stride.