Samsung's Galaxy Note II doesn't have a release date anywhere yet, but the company has let us know that the 5.5-inch behemoth will at least be making its way to American shores this year. That's an improvement on the original Note, which was similarly announced at IFA 2011 but didn't get a US release until well after this year's CES. There aren't any details on carriers yet, but considering the previous device's success we'd expect wider interest than before.

We've reproduced Samsung's statement in full below.

Samsung Mobile is planning a U.S. version of Galaxy Note II, which will be available later in 2012. Building on the success of the original Galaxy Note, we're confident that the Galaxy Note II continues to redefine what consumers should expect from their smartphone and delivers a powerful, innovative and unique experience. Exact timing and retail channel availability is not being announced at this time, we will continue to share information as it becomes available.