The Asus Padfone was first announced at the CES 2012, but it has been formally launched at the MWC 2012.
The Build
The overall build of the Asus Padfone feels sturdy and can serve as a phone. However, it can also double as a mini-tablet it appears. The review of the phone at the launch was limited because the device was attached to a stand, but the device was nicely built with textured circles covering the back of the device to not only give it a nice look, but also add some grip.
The Screen and Other Features
The Asus PadFone has a 4.3-inch screen that is Super AMOLED, and competes with top smartphone screens such as the Samsung Galaxy S2 and the iPhone 4S when it comes to size; not to mention that the screen is qHD. Overall, the screen looked good even considering it was below such poor lighting in the demonstration area.
One of the main features that come with this phone is capability; there appears to be two products on only a SIM card. The news will make for good news for everyone having separate data plans for a tablet and a smart phone. This device is unique as it is the only one so far to double as a tablet and a phone. In addition, it can be used with Transformer Prime’s docking station and a QWERTY keyboard. It doesn’t end there, the company also added a stylus to use with the tab, and the stylus doubles as a wireless headset allowing you to take calls devoid of touching the phone.
Camera and Performance
While the Asus PadFone cannot compete with Nokia 808 Pureview’s 41 MP Camera, this phone has two cameras that are decent. The first is a rear-facing 8MP with LED flash equipped and has a 2.2 auto focus lens. There is also a front facing camera that captures at VGA resolution.
As far as performance, the device runs on Android’s Ice Cream Sandwich with a 1.5GHz dual-core chip that incorporates am Adreno 225 GPU.
Overall Verdict
This is a wonderful concept that combines a smart phone and a tablet into one interesting device; although further testing is needed to determine if the device is truly innovative.
However, first impressions show us that the phone, tablet, and camera all look decent enough in their own right, even with the bonus that the device only requires one SIM card. We are looking forward to the release which should be around April of 2012 at a phone that is yet to be determined.
