14 DAY TRIAL // Although the original Padfone is relatively new on the smartphone market, Asus decided to continue the series of phone/tablet combo devices with the launch of another model, the Padfone 2.
The first details on Padfone 2’s specs sheet leaked about two weeks ago, along with the smartphone’s launch date, which is expected to be announced on October 16.
It appears that Asus already sent invites to the media suggesting that the Padfone 2 will be announced on October 16 in Milan, Italy and Taipei, Taiwan.
Previous rumors indicate that Asus Padfone 2 will be a consistent improvement in comparison with the original model.
In this regard, the folks at EEEPC.it report, citing a source close to the matter that Padfone 2 will be equipped with a powerful quad-core Qualcomm processor clocked at 1.5 GHz.
It has also been confirmed that the smartphone will boast 2GB of RAM and a large 4.7-inch capacitive touchscreen display that supports 720 x 1280 pixels resolution.
Another big improvement is the 13-megapixel rear photo snapper, which features autofocus, LED flash and full HD (1080p) video recording.
In comparison, the original Padfone packs an 8-megapixel main camera with similar features. Padfone 2 will also come with a secondary 1.3-megapixel front-facing camera for video calls.
Due to the larger display, Padfone 2 is expected to drain the battery much faster than the original model, which is why Asus decided to include a much better 2,140 mAh Li-Ion battery, which has yet to be officially rated.
According to the latest hearsay, Asus Padfone 2 will offer support for GSM 1900/850 MHz, WCDMA 2100 MHz, as well as NFC (Near Field Communication) technology.
No word on the device’s availability and pricing options, but we expect Asus to unveil more details about Padfone 2 at the press event set for October 16, so stay tuned for more updates on this one.