ASUS launches Fonepad 8 for Rs 13,999

Mumbai: ASUS announced the new ASUS Fonepad 8 (FE380CG), an 8-inch tablet with dual-SIM, 3G-phone functionality and powered by the next generation 64-bit quad-core Intel Atom Z3530 1.33GHz processor. Fonepad 8 features an all-new design that is lighter and narrower than its predecessor, yet offers a larger viewing area thanks to a class-leading ultra-narrow bezel.

Fonepad 8 comes with ASUS ZenUI, the ASUS-exclusive mobile user interface developed around the concepts of freedom, expression and connection. Featuring a new visual design made to be efficient and inviting, it contains modern 'flat' icons, vivid device-matching color themes, animations, new ringtones and notification sounds, and a clean layout to present information clearly.

“Redefining the user experience ofcalling tablets category, we are elated to bring our 8 inch Fonepad 8 to the country. The device features next generation interface ‘ASUS ZenUI’ improves on your smart device experience, giving you a brand new user interface that features over 1000 upgrades and enhancements over the standard Android operating system. Our Fonepad series have constantly introduced widely accepted innovation and all the necessary functionality; which has been loved by all our users. This encourages us to go beyond the regular and deliver incredible,” avowed Mr. Peter Chang, Regional Head, South Asia & Country Manager, System Business Group, ASUS India.

Fonepad 8 comes equipped with a 64-bit quad-core Intel Atom processor Z3530 clocked at 1.33GHz, which delivers powerful performance to run the latest apps and games. Built-in 3G connectivity and dual SIM slots provide crystal-clear voice calls and ensure that users are reachable on their own mobile or travel SIM numbers.

Fonepad 8 features an 8-inch, 1280x800 IPS display and dual front speakers tuned with MaxxAudio for immersive multimedia experiences. Its twin 5-megapixel rear and 2-megapixel front-facing cameras with PixelMaster technology provides enhanced camera functions that make it easy to capture high-quality images and video. Fonepad 8 is available with 16GB of onboard storage, which can further be expanded up to 64GB using a microSD card.

The highly energy-efficient design of Fonepad 8 comes equipped with 4000mAh battery, which provides up to 12 hours of life when watching videos or browsing the web, or up to 21 hours of 3G talk time.

ASUS ZenUI

ASUS Fonepad 8 comes with Android 4.4 (KitKat) and features ASUS ZenUI, the all-new mobile user interface exclusive to ASUS devices. ASUS ZenUI is packed with more than 1000 software enhancements and sports a new visual design with modern 'flat' icons, customizable vivid color themes that match the device color, animations, new ringtones and notification sounds, and a clean layout to clearly present information.

ASUS ZenUI also includes two features — What's Next and Do It Later — designed to free users from actively having to manage the multitude of information they are confronted with daily, and enable them to be more productive. What's Next puts the information currently most important and useful to the user — such as upcoming appointments, new messages and missed calls from VIP contacts, weather at the next destination, and more — front and center on the lock screen, the home screen and in the notification drawer.

ASUS ZenUI also makes file sharing easier thanks to a host of apps. Party Link improves on the sharing experience by letting users share files or photos with up to three parties simultaneously, with images immediately shared the moment they are taken with the ASUS ZenUI Camera app. Share Link lets users easily share files stored in their Fonepad easily with other devices when in Wi-Fi hotspot mode.

Designed for portability

Only 8.9mm thin and only 310g, Fonepad 8 is sleek and light, so it is easy to take everywhere. With a total width of 12cm and the world's narrowest bezel on an 8-inch tablet, Fonepad 8 is comfortable to use with one hand. The narrow bezel also serves to maximize Fonepad 8's display, resulting in a large viewing area with a 72.2 per cent screen-to-body ratio.

Availability and pricing

ASUS Fonepad 8 (FE380CG) will be available in Black and Gold colours from 19th January 2015 in India at ASUS Exclusive stores and Flipkart for Rs 13,999.