Asus PadFone 2 Complete Specs Pricing and Insights

Introduction to Asus PadFone 2

The Asus PadFone 2 was an innovative approach to mobile technology when it was launched in October 2012. It combined the functionalities of a smartphone and a tablet, bridging the gap between the two. This dual nature set the PadFone 2 apart in an era when tech enthusiasts were seeking more versatile devices. By allowing users to dock the smartphone into the tablet, it provided a broader and more flexible canvas for productivity, media consumption, and communication.

Design and Build

The design of the Asus PadFone 2 emphasized portability and modern aesthetics. With dimensions of 137.9 x 68.9 x 9 mm and weighing only 135 grams, the device was compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry. The phone featured a Super IPS+ LCD display with a 4.7-inch size, offering a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels with a density of approximately 312 ppi. This rendered images crisp and vibrant, especially with the added protection of Corning Gorilla Glass ensuring durability against scratches and impacts.

Performance and Software

Powering the PadFone 2 was the Qualcomm APQ8064 Snapdragon S4 Pro chipset, featuring a quad-core 1.5 GHz Krait CPU and an Adreno 320 GPU. This hardware configuration enabled the device to handle multiple applications smoothly, providing a lag-free experience. Out of the box, the PadFone 2 ran on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, with the possibility to upgrade to Android 4.4.2 KitKat, thereby staying relevant with the then-current software capabilities. The device was supported by 2GB of RAM, which was sufficient for multitasking and everyday use during its release period.

Storage Options

Asus PadFone 2 catered to different user needs by offering storage variants of 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB. However, one downside was the lack of a card slot, meaning users could not expand storage via microSD cards. This decision might have been driven by design considerations but required users to carefully choose their storage needs at the point of purchase.

Camera Capabilities

The main camera on the PadFone 2 was a robust 13 MP shooter with autofocus and an LED flash, capable of capturing detailed images across various lighting conditions. The device supported video recording at 1080p at 30fps and had the additional capability to record at 720p at 60fps, allowing for flexible video capture options. For selfies and video calls, a 1.2 MP front camera was available, supporting 720p video recording. While not groundbreaking, these features ensured users could capture decent quality images and videos for personal and social media use.

Battery and Endurance

The device was equipped with a non-removable Li-Ion 2140 mAh battery, providing stand-by time of up to 352 hours and talk time of up to 16 hours. Though not the most powerful in terms of capacity, the battery performance was enhanced by the efficient Android operating system and Snapdragon hardware, offering a decent life span for daily activities. Users could expect a practical balance of usage times between charges, with an endurance rating of 56 hours under mixed usage conditions.

Connectivity and Features

Connectivity options on the PadFone 2 kept pace with contemporaneous communication needs, featuring GSM, HSPA, and LTE technologies, allowing for fast internet browsing and reliable call performance. Other connectivity features included Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n with dual-band support, Bluetooth 4.0 for wireless data transfer, NFC, and FM radio. The presence of sensors like accelerometer, gyro, proximity, and compass contributed to enhanced user experiences in gaming and navigation.

Audio and Multimedia

The sound capabilities included a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm jack, catering to both public and private listening. The device’s audio quality was rated adequately, delivering clear sound for music and calls. Video playback, leveraging the hardware's strong GPU and display technology, provided immersive entertainment experiences, suitable for both casual users and more demanding consumers.

Market Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, the Asus PadFone 2 captured significant attention due to its innovative approach of integrating smartphone and tablet functionalities. It found appreciation among tech enthusiasts looking for hybrid solutions. Despite being discontinued, its legacy lies in the path it paved for future 2-in-1 devices, influencing design and functionality trends in mobile technology sector.

Conclusion

The Asus PadFone 2 remains a testament to Asus's ingenuity in meeting diverse technological needs through innovative solutions. While the lines between smartphones and tablets have blurred further today, the PadFone 2 stands out as an exploratory step in that direction. Even with some limitations, it provided a glimpse into what versatile devices could offer, proving that sometimes bold design concepts can spark both curiosity and innovation.