Laptop Thoughts: ASUS Transformer Prime: Ready to Challenge the iPad 2

"This morning I sat in on a conference with ASUS about their upcoming Tegra 3-based Transformer Prime tablet. The event covered everything you and I need to know about the tablet, as well as a few surprises."

Reading about the improved specs on the Transformer Prime, it seems like the iPad's competitors are really raising their game. Thin, improved processing power with a quad-core Tegra 3, a great IPS+ 1280x800 gorilla glass screen that is adjustable to work well outdoors, great sound, decents cameras, quicker touch responsiveness, all bode well for this device - with planned shipping in December.

The bundled SuperNote app is also getting some rave reviews. Polaris Office is included for handling MS Office documents. And, of course, the keyboard dock is superb, and increases battery life from 12 to 18 hours.

Upcoming (US) prices are listed at $499 for the 32GB model, and $599 for the 64GB model. The keyboard dock adds another $149. And, with Android 4.0 onboard, this should be a superb tablet for both office and "other" use.