Transformer Prime woes continue as ASUS releases new OTA update

ASUS’s Transformer Prime launch has definitely been less than optimal, and after running into release, hardware and naming issues, the tablet has once again run into another setback. This time around it's on the software side of things, as developers have discovered that the device features a locked bootloader.

According to a thread started on the XDA Developers Forum, ASUS has protected their latest tablet’s bootloader using 128-bit AES encryption. As such, developers are unable to get root access on the device and no custom ROMs, kernels or overclocking can be added. Justifiably, many Transformer Prime owners are outraged with this development, and petitions have already spread in an attempt to persuade ASUS to provide the necessary keys. In the past, HTC went down the encrypted bootloader path, but after much public outcry, CEO Peter Chou reversed the decision and announced that all future devices would feature unencrypted bootloaders.

On the other hand, ASUS appears to be attempting to mend some fences, as the company has released another update for the tablet. The 8.8.3.33 update, which has already been released over-the-air to many users, includes various camera, performance and GPS fixes. The update provides improved camera focus, a smoother touchscreen interface, and also attempts to fix the recent GPS lock problems, but doesn’t do much outside of enabling Wi-Fi while searching for a satellite. 

Although ASUS’s Transformer Prime tablet is the first quad-core Tegra 3 tablet on the market,  its pre and post-launch struggles have definitely taken some shine away from the device. Furthermore, ASUS’s failure to address customer concerns with regards to GPS and the encrypted bootloader is not the best way to handle things, but hopefully we hear something official soon. 

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