If you haven’t received the notification go into settings > about tablet > firmware updates and give it a go today. It is rather small and will download in a matter of seconds. The update will bring the Prime to build 9.4.2.13 and along with it comes a new kernel and improvements yet again to WiFi and GPS. We are also hearing this update to the kernel should not only enhance battery life and increase performance, but will solve the random reboot issue introduced with the Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich update.

It appears the bluetooth version received a small change here too, but so far that seems to about all. Once we find a full change log we’ll update. After initial installation I’m not noticing anything different here and performance seems swift as always. I didn’t have problems with WiFi before so I can’t comment here. The new build is 9.4.2.13-20120203 and was just compiled a few days ago, for those interested. Feel free to sound off in the comment section below if you notice any major changes or have problems — We’d love to hear. Now if we could only get that bootloader unlocked then everything would be good.

Device Specifications and Information

Device Info

Device Name : Transformer Prime

Manufactuer : Asus

Carrier : NA

Announced Date : November 09, 2011

Release Date : TBA

Also Known As : Transformer 2

Display

• Screen Size : 10.10 Inch
• Resolution : 1280x800
• Screen Type : IPS+

Dimension & Weight

• Height : 10.35 Inch
• Width : 7.12 Inch
• Depth : .33 Inch
• Weight : 586 Grams

Battery & Power

Battery Type:
• Lithium Polymer

• Battery Capacity : 6579 mAh
• Talk Time : NA
• Stand By Time : NA

Software

Android OS:
• 3.2.x

Audio Playback:
• AAC
• AAC+
• MP3
• WMA

Video Playback:
• h.263
• h.264 / AVC
• MPEG-4 (MP4)

Hardware

CPU : Tegra 3

CPU Clock Speed : 1400 Mhz

Core : 4

Ram : 1024 MB

Internal Storage : 64 GB

Front Facing Camera :

Camera Resolution : 8 MP

External Storage:
• MicroSD
• MicroSDHC

Camera Features:
• Auto focus
• Flash
• 1080p Video Recording

Sensors:
• Accelerometer
• Ambient light

QWERTY :

Cellular Network

Device Connectivity

Wi-Fi:
• 802.11b
• 802.11g
• 802.11n

Bluetooth:
• Bluetooth 3.0

Location Features:
• Compass
• GPS
• Wi-Fi location

FM Radio :

NFC :

Next up, there was a bit of confusion as to who currently tops the US in customer service. We first gathered from JD Power and Associates that Verizon was the victor, but later on – AT&T was said to top the charts by another survey. Who plans on watching the upcoming Super Bowl? If you’re a big fan of either the Giants or Patriots, an NFL Super Bowl 3D live wallpaper is now available in the market.

Possibly the most interesting news we’ll get to see today is a leaked image of the ASUS TF300T. It could be their next ‘Transformer’ tablet, but that’s the only speculation we can actually make at the moment. There’s no telling what could be packed inside, but it’s not like ASUS to regress in terms of hardware – so it’s safe to say their will be another NVIDIA Tegra 3 quad-core chip incorporated.

Finally, we have another update to add to the Motorola DROID 4 saga: As of now, expect to see it February 10th in stores. This was gathered from the latest leak, and is hopefully the last time this device will get pushed back. It would be a shame to receive it with a few glitches here and there, so it’s worth waiting for them to iron out anything before launching and risk making a mess of things.

To be fair, the Transformer Prime has had more than its share of problems. Early adopters have reported signal issues with both WiFi and GPS reception, probably due to the Prime’s all-metal case construction. There’s not a lot that can be done about the physics of radio waves, but on top of that, power users were upset that the hardware comes with a locked bootloader. Asus changes a lot of opinions by promising an unlocker option in February - announcing an Ice Cream Sandwich update didn’t hurt. Of course, bricked devices and other errors in the update process put them back at square one.

Asus replied to Clove’s posting with skepticism, saying that they weren’t aware of any quality issues, and that they “refute any and all claims from third parties regarding the quality of our products.” Since Clove didn’t elaborate on what customers were complaining about, we don’t have a lot to go on as far as estimating when UK buyers can expect a return. With the Transformer Prime in short supply almost everywhere, this is sure to irritate at least a few across the pond. We’ll keep you updated on any changes in Clove’s policy.

Device Specifications and Information

Device Info

Device Name : Transformer Prime

Manufactuer : Asus

Carrier : NA

Announced Date : November 09, 2011

Release Date : TBA

Also Known As : Transformer 2

Display

• Screen Size : 10.10 Inch
• Resolution : 1280x800
• Screen Type : IPS+

Dimension & Weight

• Height : 10.35 Inch
• Width : 7.12 Inch
• Depth : .33 Inch
• Weight : 586 Grams

Battery & Power

Battery Type:
• Lithium Polymer

• Battery Capacity : 6579 mAh
• Talk Time : NA
• Stand By Time : NA

Software

Android OS:
• 3.2.x

Audio Playback:
• AAC
• AAC+
• MP3
• WMA

Video Playback:
• h.263
• h.264 / AVC
• MPEG-4 (MP4)

Hardware

CPU : Tegra 3

CPU Clock Speed : 1400 Mhz

Core : 4

Ram : 1024 MB

Internal Storage : 64 GB

Front Facing Camera :

Camera Resolution : 8 MP

External Storage:
• MicroSD
• MicroSDHC

Camera Features:
• Auto focus
• Flash
• 1080p Video Recording

Sensors:
• Accelerometer
• Ambient light

QWERTY :

Cellular Network

Device Connectivity

Wi-Fi:
• 802.11b
• 802.11g
• 802.11n

Bluetooth:
• Bluetooth 3.0

Location Features:
• Compass
• GPS
• Wi-Fi location

FM Radio :

NFC :

[via Pocket Gamer]

This new TF300T is shown next to a certification document with a time stamp of January 19th 2012, which might mean this tablet could be revealed in the coming weeks or months — possible at Mobile World Congress in Spain. The image below you can clearly see it has been labeled the TF300T but we are still searching for more details on this slate. Most likely it will feature a quad-core processor like the NVIDIA Tegra 3 but we have no details and can’t confirm at this time.

What’s interesting here is the design. The radial spun rounded design is similar to the new Prime, yet the weird textured back closely resembles the original Transformer. Making us wonder if this will sit nicely between the two to complete the ASUS tablet lineup. One important note is the rear does seem to possibly be ABS plastic like the original, and not aluminum like the Prime — although I’m not digging that goofy reddish color myself.

There is the possibility this plastic coated back is a sign that the TF300T could be their first 3G/4G equipped tablet that will sit under the Prime in terms of specs, yet offer wireless connectivity for those needing more than WiFi. Stay tuned as I’m sure we’ll be hearing more soon.

[via Blogeee.net]

The picture shown above, from our coverage at CES (linked to below) you can see it’s currently running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich — only the device still features capacitive touch buttons. Rumors are strongly suggesting ASUS will be showing off a redesigned model Come February 27th at MWC that will be thinner, lighter, and obviously lose those buttons thanks to the on-screen controls of ICS.

In the image gallery below you can see just how thick the model at CES was, definetaly a lot fatter than the Transformer Prime. The Padfone at CES was being shown off as compatible with the original Transformers keyboard dock, but we expect the newly designed Padfone will support the new and sleek Transformer Prime’s dock. Another hint that the new design they’ll be showing off will be extremely thin and beautiful.

Early reports have been suggesting the NVIDIA Tegra 3 quad-core processor but the Padfone sitting in the case at CES 2012 was confirmed to actually be rocking the Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 quad-core chip. Obviously things could change internally along with the outside changes and we could see either quad-core come next month.

As a friendly reminder we will be live at Mobile World Congress to capture all the details, so remember to stay tuned right here for the latest and greatest for Android.

[via Androidandme]

ASUS has responded via Gary Key, technical manager, that a fix will be out sometime at the beginning of February. To top it off, Bluetooth and WiFi are having issues functioning simultaneously as well. Hopefully, the fixes come batched together.

If the Transformer Prime wasn’t so amazingly awesome, then I’d say they were building a poor name for themselves. But you have to take a few factors into consideration; this is the first Tegra 3 quad-core device on the market. There are bound to be a few obstacles the manufacturer isn’t used to working with.

If any owners find a fix for their devices locking up, you’ll be able to find it fastest if you follow this thread. However, we will still be keeping an eye out for a remedy so check back with us every so often.

[via TalkAndroid]

I do have one concern though. The tweet actually says the update “should” be here this February, and not that it IS coming. It also says “root tool” and not bootloader specifically. Maybe the tweeter is just confused — or leaving room for doubt and possible delays. For those unfamiliar after the tablet begin shipping and users noticed the bootloader was locked there was quickly a public outcry from developers and buyers. Locked bootloaders make it near-impossible to customize things and run tweaked software — something that is a flourishing community in Android.

The update today is good timing because its been more than a few weeks since the initial announcement and I’m sure users have been patiently waiting for some sort of details or timeline. We are expecting an online tool similar to the route HTC took on the same subject. February will be big for ASUS as they’ll hopefully be providing both this unlock tool, and Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich updates to the original Transformer.

Device Specifications and Information

Device Info

Device Name : Transformer Prime

Manufactuer : Asus

Carrier : NA

Announced Date : November 09, 2011

Release Date : TBA

Also Known As : Transformer 2

Display

• Screen Size : 10.10 Inch
• Resolution : 1280x800
• Screen Type : IPS+

Dimension & Weight

• Height : 10.35 Inch
• Width : 7.12 Inch
• Depth : .33 Inch
• Weight : 586 Grams

Battery & Power

Battery Type:
• Lithium Polymer

• Battery Capacity : 6579 mAh
• Talk Time : NA
• Stand By Time : NA

Software

Android OS:
• 3.2.x

Audio Playback:
• AAC
• AAC+
• MP3
• WMA

Video Playback:
• h.263
• h.264 / AVC
• MPEG-4 (MP4)

Hardware

CPU : Tegra 3

CPU Clock Speed : 1400 Mhz

Core : 4

Ram : 1024 MB

Internal Storage : 64 GB

Front Facing Camera :

Camera Resolution : 8 MP

External Storage:
• MicroSD
• MicroSDHC

Camera Features:
• Auto focus
• Flash
• 1080p Video Recording

Sensors:
• Accelerometer
• Ambient light

QWERTY :

Cellular Network

Device Connectivity

Wi-Fi:
• 802.11b
• 802.11g
• 802.11n

Bluetooth:
• Bluetooth 3.0

Location Features:
• Compass
• GPS
• Wi-Fi location

FM Radio :

NFC :

The recent over the air updates for the Transformer Prime — including the update to Ice Cream Sandwich have broke the root methods previously being used by modders and developers but thanks to XDA we now have a new method. After the update to Android 4.0.3 Ice Cream Sandwich the progress for root wasn’t going too well but now just a quick few commands and you are set.

Head to the XDA link below and make sure to read through the pages (only a few) for any questions you might have and then just use the new simple tools provided and you’re rooted. A couple simple ADB commands and all that good stuff and you are set. If you don’t know what ADB is then you probably should not attempt to root your Transformer Prime. We are still awaiting more details on the Bootloader unlocking situation but for now enjoy that freedom we call root access.

Device Specifications and Information

Device Info

Device Name : Transformer Prime

Manufactuer : Asus

Carrier : NA

Announced Date : November 09, 2011

Release Date : TBA

Also Known As : Transformer 2

Display

• Screen Size : 10.10 Inch
• Resolution : 1280x800
• Screen Type : IPS+

Dimension & Weight

• Height : 10.35 Inch
• Width : 7.12 Inch
• Depth : .33 Inch
• Weight : 586 Grams

Battery & Power

Battery Type:
• Lithium Polymer

• Battery Capacity : 6579 mAh
• Talk Time : NA
• Stand By Time : NA

Software

Android OS:
• 3.2.x

Audio Playback:
• AAC
• AAC+
• MP3
• WMA

Video Playback:
• h.263
• h.264 / AVC
• MPEG-4 (MP4)

Hardware

CPU : Tegra 3

CPU Clock Speed : 1400 Mhz

Core : 4

Ram : 1024 MB

Internal Storage : 64 GB

Front Facing Camera :

Camera Resolution : 8 MP

External Storage:
• MicroSD
• MicroSDHC

Camera Features:
• Auto focus
• Flash
• 1080p Video Recording

Sensors:
• Accelerometer
• Ambient light

QWERTY :

Cellular Network

Device Connectivity

Wi-Fi:
• 802.11b
• 802.11g
• 802.11n

Bluetooth:
• Bluetooth 3.0

Location Features:
• Compass
• GPS
• Wi-Fi location

FM Radio :

NFC :

[via XDA Developers]

Since the Transformer remains one of the most popular Honeycomb tablets out there (and arguably, it was the first hardware/functionality/price point combination to get people really excited about Android tablets) getting it to run Google’s latest and greatest is a top priority. There are already aftermarket ROMs for the TF-101 based on the open-source code for Ice Cream Sandwich, but there are plenty of users out there who prefer to play it safe and wait for an official update. Mr. Alan Warrick on Facebook seemed pleased at any rate.

We spend a lot of time ranting about manufacturer and carrier timetables for Android updates, or lack thereof, so it’s only fitting that we stand up and recognize when someone does right by their customers. Good on ya, Asus, for providing timely updated and honest feedback to your Android-using customers long after the final sale. Samsung, inventor of the “Value Pack”, could surely learn something from your example. Unlocking the Transformer Prime bootloader is just icing on the cake.

We received some hands-on time with the new Transformer 700 series (TF700) at CES and it was extremely impressive — that video is available in the timeline below. Now, according to AsusUK we have updates regarding both. The original Prime will receive a warranty update from 12 to 18 months for current owners, and if you aren’t happy with the GPS performance they’ll allow you to return it for a full refund. Personally the GPS shouldn’t be a huge concern on a WiFi only device, but I understand why some users are upset.

They also mention the new and improved Transformer Prime 700 series that some are calling the Prime HD. It is almost exactly the same only it has a 1920×1200 resolution and looks amazing. It also features a redesigned rear that improves all the WiFi and GPS issues from the original and will cost a few dollars more ($100 to be exact). While we received hands-on with the new model the only details from ASUS were that it was “coming soon” and possibly Q2. AsusUK has confirmed that the new Prime 700 series should be available around June, but that was all they had to say.

The release date and warranty details can and probably will be different for buyers here in the US, but most likely we wont be seeing the new Prime 700 series for at least a few more months but I’m hopeful for something much sooner than June.

[via Pocket Droid]

Asus says that it has identified and replicated the serial number issue, and is working on a fix. Demonstrating remarkable customer communication, Asus’ Technical Marketing Manager Gary Key responded to the thread directly, working with individuals and coordinating with the engineering department to develop a fix. While a permanent solution is forthcoming, Key recommends performing a factory data reset, then leaving the Transformer Prime connected to a WiFi network and waiting for the update alert to appear.

Unfortunately, the serial number issue isn’t the only one to crop up. Some users are also reporting that after the update their screen locks up, essentially making the tablet unusable. Key advises that Asus is aware of this problem as well and is trying to replicate it, with a fix coming soon. These problems are unfortunately rather typical for OS updates, and at the moment seem to be isolated to a small number of users. The much-anticipated bootloader unlock should come sometime next month.

[via Cnet]

AT&T Samsung Galaxy Note LTE

In the United States we’ve had to wait a long, long time for the Galaxy Note to come to officially launch on a carrier, but the wait is almost over. AT&T announced at its press conference that the much-anticipated flagship phone would launch exclusively on Ma Bell in the US, which Samsung confirmed in its own conference hours later. There are a couple of important distinctions between the international version and AT&T’s flavor: one, it’ll work on the new LTE network, which in AT&T’s case is playing catch-up to Verizon. And two, the US version will shift from Samsung’s preferred 3-button layout to the four standard Android capacitive buttons, which we don’t have a problem with. Though there’s no news on a price or release date, we’re just glad to hear that it will be coming our way soon.

Asus MeMO 370T

Asus announced a slew of new tablets at CES, including a 1080p refresh of the Transformer Prime. But what we’re really impressed with is the MeMO 370T, a 7-inch Ice Cream Sandwich running on Nvidia’s Tegra 3 system-on-a-chip. The kicker: it’ll go for a song at $250. That’s fighting for market share with the Amazon Kindle Fire and Barnes & Noble Nook Tablet, both of which have significantly weaker hardware and non-standard software. The cheaper side on Android tablets is the quickest-growing section, and it looks like Asus intends to right smack-dab in the middle of it. The MeMo 370T will be out sometime in the second quarter.

Asus Padfone refresh

The MeMO impresses via a combination of high-end features and a low price, but for real innovation, you’ve got to check out the Padfone. The concept has been refined since we saw it last year, but the hardware is still a long way from ready – the combination of phyisical and virtual buttons in Ice Cream Sandwich is a dead give-away. That said, it’s still a great idea (depending upon who you ask): instantly upgrading your smartphone to a tablet, with an extra battery and access to all your apps and data without syncing. The refreshed hardware takes advantage of Ice Cream Sandwich’s dual identity. If the idea catches on, this could become a brand new product category – and do away with at least some of wireless carriers’ insistence that people pay twice for data. Expect to see more complete hardware and software around Mobile World Congress.

Sony Xperia SmarWatch

Yes, the Nozomi was revealed to be the Xperia Ion (or the Xperia S, depending upon where you live) but we’re more excited to see a return to the LiveView concept, which we feel didn’t get a fair shake the first time around. The new Sony Ericsson SmartWatch is a new Android-based watch which has a full touchscreen (as opposed to just the sides like the original) and a collection of mini-apps pre-loaded. The SmartWatch can pair with a standard phone via Bluetooth, but it can also function well enough on its own. Like the Motorola MOTOACTV, Sony is putting a focus on exercising, plus the usual call/text/social alerts. Most impressively, it’ll get apps from the Android Market, and the rated battery life is 2-4 days depending on use. Sony expects the SmartWatch to go on sale in the next two months for $149.99.

Motorola DROID RAZR MAXX

If you bought the DROID RAZR on the first day it was released back in November, best to avert your eyes now. In addition to finally confirming the DROID 4, Motorola and Verizon announced the DROID RAZR MAXX, which stays the same as its predecessor except for a slightly larger profile and a massive 3,300mAh battery. That’s much larger than most extended batteries on sale, though the battery in the MAXX is still non-removable. According to Motorola, it should last for an impressive 21 hours with regular use. While we would have liked to have seen Ice Cream Sandwich or a 720p display on new hardware, such extensive changes probably would have made current RAZR owners pretty upset – or at least ,more upset than they are now. The DROID RAZR MAXX is expected to hit stores soon with a $300 price tag.

Lenovo Racer-A 

Easily the most important step forward for Android smartphones was Lenovo’s Racer-A, also known as the K800. There’s nothing particularly incredible about its specifications – Gingerbread runs on 1GB of RAM with a 4.5-inch 720p display and Lenovo’s familiar interface. What’s noteworthy about the Racer-A is the 1.6Ghz processor: there’s Intel inside. The phone is the very first to run Intel’s Medfeild system-on-a-chip, and represents the chip maker’s return to the mobile market, which it hasn’t seriously competed in since the days of the old Xscale processors. The Racer-A is unlikely to make it to American shores since Lenovo’s smartphone business isn’t currently active in North America, but if the phone is a hit in Asia, expect more Intel-based designs to show up in the United States in late 2012 or early 2013.

So, which is the most important? We’re partial to Asus’ MeMO ourselves – with the tablet market exploding, a solid Ice Cream Sandwich machine at a near impulse buy price could change the landscape for good. Even if Asus can’t pump out the sheer numbers to compete with Apple, expect Samsung and others to answer the call and drive Android tablet adoption to new heights. We’re looking forward to bringing you hands-on and reviews of as many of these smartphones and tablets as we can grab in the next few months. Expect Mobile World Congress in February to be even more chock-full of Android goodness.

According to their North America Facebook the Android 4.0.3 Ice Cream Sandwich update for the original Transformer is all set and ready to roll out — only it’s currently going through the lengthy process of being approved by Google first.

Just like most updates we can expect a few bug fixes and changes to come along with the improvements and new UI from Ice Cream Sandwich. Thanks to ASUS and their hard work owners of the original Transformer should see the update to ICS very soon and possible as early as the first week of February. With many racing to be the first with updates it’s highly possible that ASUS will push this sooner once it gets approved — just like they did with the Prime. I’ll be sure to check my OG Transformer often and as soon as we hear the update is rolling out we’ll be sure to inform you all so stay tuned.

Device Specifications and Information

Device Info

Device Name : Eee Pad Transformer

Manufactuer : Asus

Carrier : AT&T T-Mobile

Announced Date : January 20, 2011

Release Date : April 13, 2011

Also Known As :

Display

• Screen Size : 10.10 Inch
• Resolution : 1280x800
• Screen Type : LCD

Dimension & Weight

• Height : 10.67 Inch
• Width : 6.73 Inch
• Depth : 0.51 Inch
• Weight : 680 Grams

Battery & Power

Battery Type:
• Lithium Ion

• Battery Capacity : 6547 mAh
• Talk Time : NA
• Stand By Time : NA

Software

Android OS:
• 3.0.x

Audio Playback:
• MP3

Video Playback:
• h.263
• h.264 / AVC
• MPEG-4 (MP4)

Messaging:
• SMS

Hardware

CPU : Tegra 2

CPU Clock Speed : 1000 Mhz

Core : 2

Ram : 1024 MB

Internal Storage : 32.768 GB

Front Facing Camera :

Camera Resolution : 5 MP

Camera Features:
• Auto focus
• Flash

Sensors:
• Accelerometer
• Ambient light
• Proximity

QWERTY :

Cellular Network

Network Technology:
• GSM

GSM Band:
• 850
• 900
• 1800
• 1900

Device Connectivity

Wi-Fi:
• 802.11b
• 802.11g
• 802.11n

Bluetooth:
• Bluetooth 3.0

Location Features:
• Compass
• GPS
• Cellular location
• Wi-Fi location

FM Radio :

NFC :

We’ve seen this before in more than a few different iterations but today at the ASUS hall we got another look. The tablet and smartphone both have been refined and updated with the latest and greatest for 2012. Being under glass, and a lock and key we only have a few short details. The smartphone appears to be a 4.3″ AMOLED display and has been updated to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich rather than Gingerbread. The rear is rocking an 8 MP camera and dual-LED flash.

ASUS is touting this as a device that will allow you to “enlarge your screen size on the go”. Your SIM, storage, processor and more is all inside the phone. Since it was sadly hidden behind a large bullet-proof glass we were unable to look for ports and options on the tablet. Check out our pictures below and see if you can spot anything.

We will be seeing more of the Padfone at MWC 2012, and we’ll be their live to capture that too.

We all know plenty about the Transformer Prime (see our review below) and it’s specs so we don’t need to go into details and will keep this short and sweet so you can see the hands-on pictures and our Shadowgun in 1080p on a tablet demo below. Yes this is almost exactly the same as the original only it has been upgraded with an enhanced IPS display with a massive 1920 x 1200 resolution. Gaming looks simply stunning to say the least, more on that below.

the key differences are in the display, and on the rear of the device. As you can see below gone is the radial-spun aluminum and instead they’ve replaced the entire top with a hard plastic. This should help all those nagging issues with GPS and WiFi that we’ve been hearing plenty of reports about. This should fix all those problems as the aluminum design was causing the signals to suffer in the original Prime.

Enough about those small changes, check out the extremely impressive hands-on video of us playing the popular Tegra 2/3 shooter called Shadowgun. This Tegra 3 enhanced version ran at the full native 1920 x 1200 resolution and is truly what you’d call HD mobile gaming. The image was as HD as I’ve seen and it was incredible.

The new ASUS Transformer 700 series will be available in early Q2 and will ship with Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. It will be priced at $599 for the 32GB and $699 for the 64GB flavor. After watching that video who wants one?

The ASUS MeMO 171 features a 7″ 1280 x 800 IPS display with great viewing angles and exceptionally great colors and brightness. Unlike it’s recently unveiled brother this model doesn’t have the quad-core, instead it will be offered with the Qualcomm 1.2 GHz dual-core processor and 1 GB of RAM.

Again, this 7″ tablet isn’t as thin as the popular Transformer Prime but they’ve packed all that power into a smaller package so that is one thing to consider. The MeMO 171 has micro-USB, micro-HDMI and even micro-SD for extra storage. For those unfamiliar it also has a stylus hiding in the bezel below that doubles as a great handle while using in landscape mode. Around back is a 5 megapixel camera and they’ve tossed a 1.2 MP front for video calling.

ASUS has added an integrated MeMic bluetooth headset for superior audio quality and hands-free calling — yes hands-free calling. Currently only slated for a Europe debut this tablet features GSM radios and was actually rocking a T-Mobile SIM (as seen below). According to ASUS they have no immediate plans to bring this to the US but that could change at any moment. They also state it will be upgraded to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich “soon”. Enjoy the hands-on video and pictures below.

Just announced yesterday by ASUS is the MeMO 370T although it may see a different name at launch. This 7-inch 1280 x 800 resolution slate features everything you’d want in a tablet. Android 4.0.3 Ice Cream Sandwich, the ultra-fast NVIDIA Tegra 3 quad-core processor, 1GB of RAM, front and rear cameras as well as full Android Market access and Google support. This is the first official 7″ ICS tablet. It may not be as thin as its larger brother in the Prime, but the size is the only thing making us call it the “little brother”.

The most important thing here is the price — and that is $249. We’d expect the slate to be slightly lower than the Prime in the camera department to meet that price but it actually still has that impressive 8 MP camera on back. The Prime has one of the best tablet cameras around so hopefully this wont disappoint.

The brushed aluminum has been replaced by a hard plastic with the same radial-spun design as the Prime and overall I was extremely happy with the feel and performance. Obviously with the Tegra 3 the tablet is blazing fast so I don’t even need to go there — although this is the first slate I’ve handled with a fully stable build of ICS. ASUS made clear that this was still under development but things felt ready for the green light to me. In case you didn’t catch that before — this is running on Android 4.0.3 ICS.

You can see in the image above the new 7-inch slate from ASUS will have micro-usb, micro-hdmi, and also a micro-SD slot for expanded storage — something many tablets lately have been leaving out. Offering this entire package and performance for the low price of $249 has just set the bar for portable and ultra-powerful tablets. Those high priced Samsung Galaxy Tab’s should be worried right about now. Expect to see this new quad-core tablets early Q2 2012.

I’ll start with our link to our sister site SlashGear — as we’ve got all of our coverage plastered on their front page. For any and all things CES click here. ASUS and NVIDIA had a strong day of announcements and more will be coming shortly. They just announced a new Android 4.0 7″ tablet rocking the Tegra 3 quad-core for only $249. AT&T will be getting a pair of 4G LTE devices from Pantech in the 8″ waterproof Pantech Element and the equally waterproof Pantech Burst Android 2.3 smartphone.

Like we said above Android 4.0 is available via an update for the Prime starting today. The popular shooter Shadowgun that we love here at Androi Community is getting full multi-player support and looks incredible.

Again all of our coverage can be seen at our CES 2012 Portal, and more is available over on SlashGear.

Being shown off on stage but quickly hidden from our cameras was the new ASUS 7″ Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich tablet. This 7″ slate is aimed at the budget crowd but in no way, shape, or form a budget device. All those 3rd party tablets lacking Android Market support wont have anything on this — for now. ASUS has bundled a 1280 x 800 resolution 7″ slate with the quad-core Tegra 3 and 4.0 ICS. What’s better than that? The Price!

While no official release date was given, we can expect to see this tablet hit the shelves in early Q2 2012. We know the magic number has been $199 as of late but most of those aren’t nearly on the same level as the new ASUS tablet either. ASUS will be selling this new and impressive tablet for only $249 as the image above suggests.

We don’t have all the details as far as cameras, Micro-SD slots and things of that nature but the important ones for now we do know. And that is ICS, Tegra 3, 7″ and one more time — Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. If you’ve been looking for both a powerhouse Android tablet that also has as much power as you can possibly imagine this is exactly for you. Well done ASUS — bring it on!

Note: We’ve seen reports of a MeMO with 3D and stylus support as you can see below. Until ASUS releases more details we’ll leave it at that, but the links are available below.

According to the official press release from ASUS they’ve not only changed the display, but we also have an upgraded front facing camera. It’s been boosted to a much better 2.0 MP lens for video chat vs the 1.3 in the original Prime. Then here comes some good news — GPS and Wifi! ASUS has redesigned the entire rear casing and have improved the GPS and WiFi signal range and quality. Something that has seen a large amount of criticisms since release.

For the most part the new and improved ASUS Transformer Prime is the same in all other aspects. Same awesome 1.4 GHz quad-core Tegra 3 processor under the hood, 1GB of RAM, and awesome rear camera so users shouldn’t be concerned with losing anything. Although if you just picked up the original you are probably thinking of returning it right about now — and I don’t blame you.

ASUS has confirmed that this will NOT replace the original (just released) Transformer Prime, instead it will be an upscale higher model for those wanting the better display — although I’m sure many current owners will want the fixes to WiFi, GPS, and everything else the radial spun aluminum design didn’t seem to help. Availability hasn’t yet been released by ASUS other than Q2 of this year, but pricing will get a small bump and they expect to hit market at $599 for the 32GB, and $699 for the 64 flavor. Keyboard dock is the same and current models will all work together seamlessly. One important note is this will be shipped running on the latest Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich.

Who’s taking their Prime back to wait for the new and improved TF700T?