When we talk about Asus’s Transformer, you may think of an Android tablet that can be attached to a keyboard and transform to work like a laptop. It looks like the Taiwan company just think that this transformation is just no big enough and decided to create the latest Transformer AiO, which is the world’s first all-in-one PC with a detachable display that doubles as a standalone tablet.
The Transformer AiO P1801 system includes dual devices with dual operating systems – an Intel-powered desktop PC Station with Windows 8, and a 18.4-inch display that packs Tegra 3 for running Android 4.1. When the display is attached to the PC Station, the whole thing works just like a normal Windows 8 all-in-one PC with a touchscreen. Alternatively, you can detach the display and instantly it transforms into a huge Android tablet for you to use around the home for using apps or playing games downloaded from Google Play store. Using Wireless Remote Desktop, you still have control over Windows 8 on the PC Station, even if the display is detached. There is a Mode Key for one-click switch between Windows 8 and Android Jelly Bean.
The PC Station is where you can find the hardware for running Windows 8. It sports a 3rd gen Intel Core (i3-3220 or i5-3350-P or i7-3770) processor, 4GB of RAM (max 8GB) and NVIDIA’s GeForce GT730M graphics with 2GB of video memory. It packs up to 2TB of hard drive and a slot-in DVD SuperMulti burner. Other things you can find include Bluetooth 4.0, dual-band WiFi 802.11n, USB 3.0 ports, 3-in-1 card reader, HDMI output and built-in 3Wx2 speakers.
As mentioned above, the 18.5-inch display is an Android tablet itself. It packs a NVIDIA Tegra 3 quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM and 32GB flash. It uses IPS LCD panel and features 1920×1080 Full HD resolution, LED backlight and 178-degree viewing angle. There are built-in support for Bluetooth 3.0 and WiFi and it comes with a 1 Megapixel front-facing camera, a microSD card slot and a 3.5mm audio jack. The tablet has a built-in foldable stand that can be adjusted from 0 to 100 degrees for the most comfortable viewing angle.
Asus is planning to release the Transformer AiO in early Q2 starting at $1299.
