Asus PadFone Mini

Asus shrinks PadFone two-in-one mobile device unit 

LAS VEGAS -- Shortly after AT&T said that it will bring the Asus PadFone X smartphone/tablet hybrid to US customers, Asus announced that it has manufactured a junior-sized version of it as well. Aptly named the PadFone Mini, this device still enables users to plug their handset directly into their tablet, but in a smaller package

The Mini smartphone includes a 4-inch IPS+ display with an 800x480-pixel resolution and Android 4.3 (which Asus reported will be upgradable to 4.4 KitKat at a later time). Powering the device is a non-removable 1,170mAh battery. Though this handset doesn't include LTE, it does include dual SIMs for those who travel frequently or desire two separate phone numbers.

Along with a 2-megapixel front-facing camera, the device features an 8-megapixel rear-facing camera. This five-element lens shooter packs a backside-illumination sensor from Sony, as well as an f/2.0 aperture. It is capable of recording 1080p video, and a few photo editing options include HDR shooting and a low-light mode.

As for the tablet, it is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen, and has a 1,280x800ppixel resolution. It's powered by a 2,100mAh, bringing the entire power capacity of the PadFone Mini unit to 3,270mAh.
On its rear side is a 24-pin connector dock, which is used to hold and connect the accompanying smartphone in its place. The tablet can also be used to juice the handset's battery while docking as well.

Altogether, the PadFone Mini unit weighs 0.82 pounds and it's powered by a 1.6GHz Atom Z2560 processor from Intel. It's equipped with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage space. If you feel like you'll need more space for your photos and videos, memory can be expanded up to 64GB via a microSD card slot
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In addition to running Android, the unit will sport Asus’ new user interface. Dubbed "ZenUI," it will feature coordinated color themes and redesigned icons and menus.

The Mini is available in five colors (black, white, red, blue, and yellow). Though Asus has yet to release pricing and availability information, it is possible that the US may never get its hands on it, similar to how the PadFone (2013) is available only in Europe and Asia. However, given the news that AT&T is bringing over the PadFone X, the Mini may find its way to our shores after all.

Whatever the outcome may be, the concept of having a two-in-one smartphone/tablet kit is unique, and consumers who prioritize consolidation and efficiency may find Asus' PadFone line compelling, if not convenient.