Slideshow

Hands-on with the ASUS Fonepad

We go hands-on with the ASUS Fonepad, a 7in Android tablet that makes calls.

  • The [[artnid:455475|ASUS Fonepad]] is a 7in Android tablet that also functions as a regular smartphone. It will be [[artnid:462632|available in Australia from early June]]. Let's go hands-on!

    The retail package of the ASUS Fonepad.

  • The back of the box shows some more specific details. Our review unit is the base 8GB model.

  • Unpacking the Fonepad from the box.

  • Unboxing the Fonepad and the package contents.

  • In the box you'll find documentation including the warranty card and user manual, a standard USB to micro-USB cable and an Australian AC adapter.

  • The Fonepad is powered by an a 1.2GHz single-core Intel Atom Z2420 processor, hence the Intel branding on the back.

  • The Fonepad has a classy looking metallic finish on the back. Our review unit is the grey model but the device is also available in a gold variant.

  • On the left side you'll find a power button and volume controls. Despite the low price, the build quality feels excellent.

  • There's a 3.2-megapixel camera on the back, without a flash.

  • The micro-SIM and microSD slots are hidden behind the removeable plastic panel at the top of the Fonepad.

  • It's easy to slide the panel on and off. Here's the plastic panel removed.

  • The gloss black bezel surrounding the display attracts plenty of fingerprints and is a little thick when compared to the Apple iPad mini.

  • The Fonepad has rounded corners that make it comfortable to hold.

  • Turning the Fonepad on for the first time takes you through a set-up process.

  • ASUS has made some changes to the standard Android notifications panel. There's a row of shortcut toggles, the ability to adjust the brightness, and quick access to ASUS' AudioWizard sound enhancement software and Wi-Fi settings.

  • The Fonepad's on-screen dock can house six full customisable app shortcuts.

  • The app drawer is a standard grid of icons with horizontal scrolling between pages.

  • An extra on-screen shortcut button gives you access to what ASUS calls "floating apps", mini apps that can run on the screen on top of an already open application. We were able to run up to five floating apps at a time with selections including a mini browser, calculator, calendar, countdown timer and mini video player.

  • ASUS will sell two models of the Fonepad in Australia, both with 3G connectivity. The 8GB model will retail for $329, while the larger 32GB model will sell for $399. [[artnid:462632|The Fonepad will be sold in Australia through various retailers from early June]].

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