Transformer Prime

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=9tAwHCDq-94]

It looks like the first quad-core Tegra 3 tablet is getting one step closer to a final release with the Asus Eee Pad Transformer Prime officially going up for pre-order on Amazon today. We knew it would be landing for $499 sometime in December, but today it’s listed at a slight discount for $492.20 for the entry-level 32GB model ($584.22 for 64GB).

Asus also today officially listed the device on their website with full specs, however we don’t learn much more than we already found out last month. Some new pieces of information– ‘SonicMaster’ audio tech brings the “most precise processing protocols and codecs, superior speaker construction and large resonance chambers”, and a power saving mode which according to SlashGear lets you switch off three of the CPU’s four cores. Asus notes their battery life estimates are measured using the powering saving mode.

We also learn there will be a bunch of preloaded apps including the SuperNote note taking app, MyCloud for cloud storage and remote access, MyNet for streaming over home networks, and My Library which stores all downloaded publications in one convenient location. There will also be the Asus launcher, Asus sync app, and TegraZone, and a full list of accessories can be found here.

The page confirms an Ice Cream Sandwich update will be coming, while Nvidia (via TheVerge) gives us our first look at Android 4.0 ICS running on the Transformer Prime in the video above.

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While we still don’t know exactly when Asus will let us get our hands on the Tegra 3 quad-core Transformer Prime, eeepc.it (via Android Police) just spotted an iPad-like “Smart Cover” belonging to the device on Amazon’s German site. While we don’t learn much from the Amazon listing, it’s clear from the images the accessory’s design is largely inspired by that of Apple’s iPad 2’s smart covers. Of course the notable twist being a more intricate origami-style folding system allowing you to prop up the device in various viewing modes. Some are saying it will connect magnetically like Apple’s smart covers, although we’ll have to wait to get our hands on it to see how it stacks up.

It’s available for pre-order now for EUR 39.99, however we still don’t know when it or the Transformer Prime will end up shipping. As of latest reports, we expect to see it sometime in December. More images after the break, if you’re interested.

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