ASUS has uped their game with their next generation ASUS PadFone Infinity. It is the same unique innovation from ASUS that transforms a Full HD smartphone into a Full HD tablet, but, this time, it features an impressive internal makeover for a definite performance boost.
The Design, Display and Durability
Together, the PadFone and PadFone station have a brushed-aluminum alloy unibody design that comes in both titanium black and platinum white. It has a sleek concept that is both eye-catching and screams sophistication. Weighing at 145g, the PadFone is tapered from 8.95mm to 6.3mm; giving a slimmer product that is a lot more comfortable on hand. However, ladies with smaller hands, like mine, might find the wide screen a tad inconvenient when trying to flip through the phone single-handedly while on the go.
The display on both is spectacular; featuring a 5″ 1080p IPS on the PadFone and a 10.1″ 1920x1200p IPS on the PadFone station. When docked into its companion, everything from the connectivity to platform is instantly switched over; eliminating the need to get a separate sim card or stare at the dreaded loading circle for the data to synchronize. Whatever app you had opened remains where you left off, with added optimization to adjust to the bigger 10.1″ display; thanks to the ASUS DynamicDisplay. And there’s no need to worry about your PadFone slipping out, as it features an unique docking mechanism with an anti-slip design. Though, the gorilla glass protection is a backup plan for the unfortunate and clumsy.
The Internal Makeover
On first look, I was shocked that it only had 16GB or 32GB storage models available; a big decrease from the previous. However, ASUS surprised me with the addition of a MicroSD slot, giving the PadFone Infinity an additional external storage of up to 64GB. There is no need to worry about taking too many photos during vacation, where you don’t have a computer to transfer them to, or storing a multitude GB of videos for your viewing pleasure for when you’re on the go.
The specs upgrade is the biggest highlight as it comes with an upgrade to the Qualcomm 2.2GHz Snapdragon 800 and 2GB LPDDR3 RAM. There is a noticeable performance boost when it comes to switching between different applications, as well as bringing and supporting mobile gaming to another level. Furthermore, it comes with the Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean, which ASUS has put in the extra effort to create a brand new UI. It comes with comprehensive social media integration, a clearer and more intuitive use of screen space and maximized productivity with added functionality to the notification page and quick pull-up of your shortcuts with the home key.
The Camera
Showing off the same 13MP f/2.0 five-element lens, I was pleasantly surprised to know that ASUS has made it better with the new PixelMaster technology feature. This means that your artistic vision as a photographer will shine even in the darkness of night time as it automatically adjusts the pixel size to increase light sensitivity up to 400%; aka no ugly bright blotches and unwanted shadows from using the LED flash. Also, say no to photobombs easily with the SmartRemove and record your active lifestyle in photos with the 30 pictures/second Turbo Burst Shot.
The Verdict
Overall, PadFone Infinity might seem too much at first, but once I got used to it, it made a whole lot of sense. It is a remarkable gadget with lots of potential. I feel that ASUS has gotten the right hardware to get this phone/tablet duo the spotlight it deserves to catch the everyday consumer’s eyes. ASUS has continued to try new and interesting concepts, and the PadFone Infinity is definitely one of those I hope will stay.
The Asus PadFone Infinity was reviewed by our contributing writer Jessica Chan.
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