Asus Fonepad planned for July-end launch

The device from the Taiwanese electronics major will free people from having to carry two devices, a mobile phone and a tablet NAGMANI International, the sole authorized distributor of Asus for Nepal, is planning to introduce a new tablet, the Asus Fonepad, by July-end. The new product, according to the company, can be used for both as a mobile phone and a tablet. The Asus Fonepad from the Taiwanese electronics major will free people from having to carry two devices, a mobile phone and a tablet. “The product will be different from other devices as it can be used for making regular calls by using a normal SIM. The utility feature of the tablet computer is sure to encourage people to buy it,” said Super Shrestha, product manager - Asus at Nagmani International. He added that the new product would be cheaper compared to other products in the segment. Shrestha expressed confidence that the device would fulfil the requirements of people as it can be used both as a phone and a tablet PC. “As part of its effort to emerge as a prominent brand globally, Asus is strengthening its presence here in Nepal by rolling out the Asus Fonepad,” he said. As per Nagmani, the 7-in display and the sleek metallic finish gives the Fonepad a classy look. It is equipped with Android 4.1 (Jelly bean) operating system and is powered by Intel Atom Z2420 processor which has a speed of 1.2 GHz. Regarding the memory, the device is fitted with 1 GB RAM. The phone features a 7-in LED Backlight WXGA (1280x800) screen with In-plane switching (IPS) panel technology. Though there are 8 GB and 16 GB versions of the Fonepad available in the international market, Nagmani is introducing the 8 GB model in Nepal due to price considerations. “The 8 GB version will be affordable,” said Shrestha. It has an external memory slot and memory can be expanded up to 32 GB according to need. Regarding connectivity, the phone can house a regular micro SIM making it capable of operating in both 2G and 3G networks. In addition, it is equipped with wireless and Bluetooth system. The device has a 1.2 mega pixel front camera and a 3 mega pixel rear camera with auto focus function and is capable of 720 p of video recordings. The phone set also features global positioning system (GPS) and Glonass, e-compass, G-sensor, proximity and ambient light sensors. It is equipped with Asus Sonic Master Audio Technology with award winning Maxx Audio software which delivers precise and crystal sound effects, said the company. The device will also be provided with preloaded applications like Asus Launcher, My Library, File Manager, Kindle, Zinio, Supernote Lite to enable users to take notes, application backup and application locker. The Fonepad will be available in titanium grey and champagne gold colours. It weighs 340 gm making it handy. According to Shrestha, the company has targeted the product at people from all segments including corporate officials, bankers, highend gadget seekers and students. The Asus Fonepad is expected to cost less than Rs 35,000.