Transformer Prime owners prepare to get excited; ASUS has confirmed that a rather big software update will launch later this week for the tablet-cum-netbook device, otherwise known as the TF201.
The news comes from ASUS’ Italian Facebook Page of all places, who confirmed the update as well as letting us know what the update contains. Being an Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich device, ASUS has decided to add in one of the key features of the software: Face Unlock. For those too lazy to touch the screen of their Prime, you’ll now be able to set up your device so that the front camera recognises you (hopefully) and auto-unlocks.
ASUS has decided to take a leaf out of Apple’s book when it comes to notifications, so the update will add a notification system into the lock screen. So, despite your device being locked, notifications will be displayed for various programs (Email, Play Store, Facebook etc.) on-screen. ASUS tells us that we’ll be able to view and delete these notifications from the lock screen, as well as selecting an individual notification to jump to the related app – sounds neat if you ask us.
The company has stressed that the new features and improvements contained within this update are a result of the company listening to feedback from its customers. The Transformer Prime will now support USB to Ethernet adapters, allowing users to hook up to the web using a good old cat5 cable and adapter, which will slot straight into one of the keyboard dock’s USB 2.0 ports. Ad-Hoc networking will also be supported.
ASUS’ Vibe music software will get an overhaul from version 1.0 to 2.0 to add an improved user interface and new content, while the native browser will now remember your choice of desktop or mobile view for certain websites.
Finally, HDMI-out is said to have been tweaked to be much better, with the ability to crop your picture from the tablet to fit your TV screen, as well as altering the orientation with ease.
The update should start rolling out to Transformer Primes around the world starting this Friday.
Let us know your thoughts on our comments below or via our @Gadget_Helpline Twitter page or Official Facebook group.
Source: ASUS Italy