ASUS launches Fonepad in SA

The Fonepad runs on the 1.2GHz Atom Z2420, which was specifically designed by Intel for smartphone and tablet devices. The device weighs 340g and features a 10.4mm profile and smooth metal back, with a 1.2 megapixel front camera and a 3 megapixel back camera. The Android-based tablet runs on Jellybean 4.1. The back panel houses the usual antennae and hidden underneath are both the micro-SIM slot and the micro SD reader, which supports up to 32GB cards.

"Extending our long history of collaboration, including most recently on the Ultrabook and Intel-based tablets, we are very excited to be partnering ASUS again," said Videsha Proothveerajh, territory manager for South and sub-Saharan Africa of Intel Corporation. "Intel's new Atom Z2420 processor delivers the power, performance and flexibility required to accommodate a range of devices and market needs. We think that the ASUS Fonepad is a very innovative device in an emerging category of 3G tablets with telephony features."

Part of a range of devices

The Fonepad is part of a range of devices created by ASUS that are targeted towards capturing more of the mobile device market in Africa, with the focus being on mobility and connectivity. The Fonepad is ideal for people who value both the voice communication features of a smartphone and the entertainment opportunities afforded by a tablet, but prefer the convenience of carrying just one device.

According to Shawn Cheng, regional director of Asus Africa: "Africa is a priority market and it's our objective to make devices more accessible. The ASUS Fonepad was designed to be more affordable, without compromising on the quality and value that is synonymous with ASUS, allowing more people to enjoy the benefits of technology."

ASUS Fonepad and accessories are available now. Fonepad prices start from R3499 (8GB storage with three-megapixel rear camera).