Asus to Bring PadFone to the U.S. in Q2 2014
PadFone is coming to the USA thanks to a major U.S. carrier.
Asus today announced the PadFone Mini, a more compact version of its flagship PadFone smartphone and tablet combo. However, that news has almost been overshadowed by something that Asus CEO Jerry Shen mentioned to Engadget. Though the PadFone has initially only been available in Taiwan, it seems Shen is ready to take the phone mainstream. Apparently, this starts today with availability of the PadFone Infinity now extending to Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, UAE, Russia and parts of Europe. Asus also said that it's developing a product for a 'big operator' in the U.S., which is scheduled for a Q2 2014 launch.
"The fact that such an expensive device still managed to sell nearly 300 units per day in Taiwan means the user base is quite stable," Shen told Engadget. "So in June, I was confident enough to tell my team that it's time to go mainstream. Without knowing our customers' acceptance, I did not dare to go mainstream, because going mainstream requires a lot of effort."
While Asus has been tentative about its foray into the smartphone market, its decision to take things global should come as no big surprise. Back in August, Asus Chairman Jonney Shih admitted that the company is a "latecomer" to the smartphone market but said Asus was making progress in bringing a device to the United States. Shih said Asus had been taking its time building relationships with the various carriers and retailers it will depend on when a smartphone finally is ready to ship. Looks like those relationships are finally where they need to be.
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Jane McEntegart is a writer, editor, and marketing communications professional with 17 years of experience in the technology industry. She has written about a wide range of technology topics, including smartphones, tablets, and game consoles. Her articles have been published in Tom's Guide, Tom's Hardware, MobileSyrup, and Edge Up.
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airanp I have been following this series of phone since it was announced years ago. I would love to see it hit the U.S. If they can get the specs of the new infinity model at a price point that will not bust buying a phone and tablet separate they will have a winner for me.Reply -
g-unit1111 Why do we only get the mini Padfone? Why can't Asus bring the Padfone Infinity out here with full Android 4.4.2? That thing would sell faster than the iPhone if they did.Reply