IFA 2012 | Asus unveils new ultrabooks and ultraportable devices
At IFA 2012 in Berlin, Asus unveiled a number of ultraportable devices including the Zenbook U500VZ, Zenbook Prime UX21A Touch, Taichi, and Transformer Book.
The Asus Zenbook U500VZ is a high-performance ultrabook. Inside its 19.7-mm (0.78-inch) aluminum case, the U500VZ features a 3rd generation Intel Core i7 quad-core processor, optional Nvidia GT 650M graphics card, and up to 512 of SSD storage. The hardware is paired with a 15-inch Full HD IPS display. The U500VZ also features a full-sized, automatically-backlit keyboard and separate numeric keypad.
The Asus Zenbook Prime UX21A Touch brings new functionality to the Zenbook line as the first device in the series to feature a multi-touch display. Paired with the upcoming Windows 8, the UX21A Touch features an Intel Ivy Bridge Core processor and up to 256 GB of SSD storage. The Super IPS+ capacitive touch screen offers Full HD resolution and ultra-wide viewing angles. The ultrabook also includes support for USB 3.0 and 802.11n.
The Asus Taichi is a new product offering with a double-sided display. With the display lid opened, the device functions as a standard ultrabook with a backlit keyboard and touchpad. When closed, the device becomes a tablet with multi-touch and stylus support. According to Asus, both screens can operate simultaneously and independently, allowing two users to share the device. The Taichi has a similar size and weight to the Zenbook series and also features an Ivy Bridge Intel Core processor, SSD storage, and support for dual-band 802.11n.
The Asus Transformer Book is Asus’s self-proclaimed world-first convertible notebook. With a detachable keyboard, the device can function as both a tablet and a traditional notebook. The Transformer Book is equipped with an Ivy Bridge Core i7 processor and can be configured to use pure SSD storage or a hybrid SSD / physical hard drive solution.