While Asus is currently feeling the wrath of Hasbro over the Transformer name, the PC manufacturer is reportedly set to reveal a smaller version of its latest tablet – the 10-inch -based Transformer Prime — during CES 2012. This model will be called the Asus Transformer Prime Mini, and sport a 7-inch screen and a smaller keyboard dock.
The new “Mini” model will reportedly be one of three that Asus will showcase during the Las Vegas convention next week. The lineup will also include the Ice Cream Sandwich-based Asus Padfone which was announced back in May 2011, a 4.3-inch smartphone that can convert into a tablet via a 10.1-inch touchscreen dock.
Also at CES 2012 Asus will reveal a 7-inch version of the Eee Memo Pad. It will reportedly ship with a 1.2 GHz dual-core Snapdragon SoC, 16 GB to 64 GB of internal storage (depending on your wallet), and a 1280 x 800 screen resolution. It will also arrive in both Wi-Fi only and Wi-Fi/3G flavors.
Whether or not the Transformer Prime Mini will keep its name remains to be seen. Hasbro claimed that it reached out to Asus back in April 2011, requesting that the PC manufacturer not use the Transformer label, citing consumer confusion. Two tablet releases later, Hasbo has finally filed suit in the Los Angeles courts, requesting monetary compensation for damages and a halt of the Transformer term use in current and future Asus products.
“Hasbro continues to aggressively protect its brands and products and the specific actions we are taking today against Asus underscores yet again Hasbro’s willingness to pursue companies who misappropriate our intellectual property for their own financial gain,” Barbara Finigan, Hasbro’s chief legal officer, said in a statement. “The Transformers property is an incredibly popular global brand which enjoys tremendous fan support and interest around the world. The action we have announced today is in the best interests of our company and our shareholders.”
-Tomsguide.com
