Hands-On: ASUS Fonepad 7 with LTE, Android 4.3

As previous reported, ASUS was expected to put an updated version of its popular budget Fonepad 7 tablet on display at MWC 2014, complete with calling capabilities.

We managed to track the new version on the grounds at Barcelona, so we’re able to show you what the device looks and feels like.

But first, we should remind you that the original ASUS Fonepad (ME372CG) was introduced last year, and back then it came equipped with a 7-inch screen and brought along the option of placing phone calls. Now the new models have been enhanced with LTE/3G capabilities.

The LTE one comes with an IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels and its power house is an Intel Atom Z2560 processor clocked at 1.6GHz combined with 1GB of RAM.

Other highlights of the tablet include dual cameras (5MP on the back and 1.2MP in front), 16GB of internal storage, microSD card reader, stereo speakers with SonicMaster audio and a decent 3950 mAh battery. While this isn't the largest battery we have seen, ASUS says it will provide you with up to 25 hours of 3G talk time and 11 hours of video playback.

The tablet proves to be lightweight and to offer a smooth performance. It’s quite easy to open multiple applications and to multitask.

ASUS Fonepad 7 with LTE hands-on

There’s the possibility of dragging an app bar to the lower side of the screen. From there, users can launch several widgets on top of each other via drag and drop, just like you’d do with Windows screens. There was no noticeable performance impact while having four opened at the same time. However, they have to be closed independently.

The device is available in multiple coloring options, including Sapphire Black, Diamond White, Ceramics White and Gray, albeit we spotted only the Ceramics White version.

ASUS will apparently offer two new accessories to go with the LTE tablet. The first one is the ASUS NFC/Bluetooth Stereo Headset, which will enable users to “enjoy talking and music limitlessly on the go.”

ASUS Fonepad 7 with LTE hands-on

The second one is the stylish, dedicated ASUS Fonepad 7 TriCover, designed to provide protection to your tablet while on the go. On top of that, the case will allow users to prop the tablet in the optimal position for movie watching.

Those hoping that ASUS has upgraded the OS too will be a little disappointed, since the tablet runs Android 4.3 out of the box. ASUS hasn't said anything about a possible update to Android 4.4. KitKat.

To conclude, the LTE enhanced Fonepad 7 is expected to ship out soon (date unknown at the moment) for the price of €249 / $342.