Who the heck needs an alien that can become a robot? ASUS has a Transformer that will be a lot more useful — and a lot less scary.
The company just announced the Transformer AiO, an all-in-one that can go from a desktop PC to a tablet in a snap. Just detach the Transformer’s 18.4-inch multi-touch display and you’re ready to roam.
If you truly can’t make up your mind, know that the Transformer AiO also offers operating system choices. Once the unit is detached, ASUS says you can use Remote Desktop technology on the PC Station for multi-touch control over Windows 8 in tablet mode. However, you can also use the Transformer AiO as a stand-alone tablet, via Android 4.1 and a built-in NVIDIA Tegra 3 quad-core processor.
That 10-point multi-touch screen packs in IPS technology and a full 1080p HD image. Other features include Intel’s core i5 processor, NVIDIA’s GeForce GT 730M graphics, four USB 3.0 and one USB 2.0 ports, a 1-megapixel front-facing camera, and ASUS SonicMaster audio technology. It should also be noted that the PC station has 8GB of RAM and a 1TB hard drive, with the tablet packing in 2GB of RAM and 32GB of on-board storage.
For a little added convenience, ASUS has included dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth support, as well as an HDMI port for blowing things up to a larger screen.
In tablet mode, the Transformer AiO boasts up to five hours of battery life and a weight of 5.3 pounds. It also has a carrying handle and a folding stand for on-the-go use.
ASUS is planning to launch Transformer AiO early in the second quarter of 2013 with a starting price of $1,299.
