ASUS has said that a 3G version of its extremely popular Transformer Prime will not be coming into production by the end of Q1 – if at all. Actually, they even said “no such product exists on its current roadmap”. For some, 3G capabilities within a device is their highest selling point – particularly to those who are always on the move and have no time for a dedicated WiFi connection.
The Transformer Prime is likely the best Android tablet available for purchase, so this news will undoubtedly negatively effect many looking to purchase a 3G model. The updated version – TF700T – may be a more probably candidate for 3G connectivity, but after seeing how nicely 4G plays with the DROID XYBOARD, maybe we could see it with LTE instead.
Official reports from ASUS have changed quickly, and especially concerning the Transformer Prime. It wouldn’t be too surprising to see a 3G-ready version leak. But for now, those of you that were waiting for a more official announcement – now you have one. You’ll have to go out and purchase a WiFi only model, or settle with 3G/4G on many of the other available tablets.
[via The Verge]
This is insane. What’s wrong with ASUS? I have been waiting over a year to get a 3G older Transformer, and as soon as it’;s released in the UK they release the far better Prime, so one puts off buying for the latest Prime, only that’s not 3G either and on it goes… so I am going to switch to another brand. Bye Bye ASUS
I wonder how come. If which is big “IF” if it’s because Asus won’t become slaves the carrier and have customers forced to go into a 2yr contract as opposed to a month to month ala carte, then Good for them. It’s not profitable, it’s a failed offering.
I would not get Asus by next month I’m sure there are more tablets with 3G. Maybe Lenovo, Fujitsu or Galaxy Tab already has it just need update to ice cream sandwich.
Maybe its too much of a conspiracy theory but what if the sales of the WiFi version do not go as expected and the 3G denial info should help it by motivating a part of those waiting for 3G to go with the WiFi version instead? 🙂
I’ll wait till mid year and then decide…
OMG! We need 3G to check in!!
No 3G on a tab kinda defeats its purpose.