Transformer Prime getting Android 4.0 on January 12th, along with unlocked bootloader

That was quick.

Within two days of the community learning that Asus' new quad-core tablet has a locked bootloader, the company has stated that it will be releasing an unlock tool.

Over the weekend, members of the XDA forums posted that the Prime has a 128-bit encrypted bootloader, making it a lot tougher for interested devs to create and run custom ROMs on the tablet.

Says Asus via their Facebook page: Regarding the bootloader, the reason we chose to lock it is due to content providers' requirement for DRM client devices to be as secure as possible. ASUS supports Google DRM in order to provide users with a high quality video rental experience. Also, based on our experience, users who choose to root their devices risk breaking the system completely. However, we know there is demand in the modding community to have an unlocked bootloader. Therefore, ASUS is developing an unlock tool for that community. Please do note that if you choose to unlock your device, the ASUS warranty will be void, and Google video rental will also be unavailable because the device will be no longer protected by security mechanism.

Additionally, the tablet will get Android 4.0 on January 12th: "ASUS has been working hard to make the highly anticipated Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich available on the Transformer Prime, and today, we have good news for you. Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich FOTA worldwide update for the Transformer Prime will start from Jan 12th, 2012. Thank you for your patience and support through this process."

With the newly unlocked bootloader, and an official Android 4.0, the world's most powerful tablet just got even better.

Written by: Andre Yoskowitz @ 3 Jan 2012 15:01

Notcow

Wow, what a great thing to see, a company caring about its customers' opinions. Glad I bought my video card from em.

What makes it even more interesting is the flack that they're willing to take from the DRM proponents like Netflix.

3.1.2012 15:23 #1

LordRuss

OK, now I'm confused... I know, like that's new... I mean, boot load locked - now its not - did somebody piss in Asus' punch bowl at the New Years eve party? Because the DRM public is going to be screaming bloody murder of this. Specially the likes of Netflix & streaming facilities like them.

http://onlyinrussellsworld.blogspot.com

3.1.2012 15:26 #2

djgizmo

It's still locked... they are just releasing a unlock tool.

To me, this is the best of both worlds. People who don't care / want to unlock get a stable system and can use rental services. While those that want to mod and have no need for rental services get what they want too.

Asus is smart.

3.1.2012 20:42 #3

Mysttic

Quote:To me, this is the best of both worlds. People who don't care / want to unlock get a stable system and can use rental services. While those that want to mod and have no need for rental services get what they want too. Couldn't agree more; and it's completely fair. If you don't know how to safely mod your device, you shouldn't be doing it in the first place. Fair amount risk VS fair amount of value. Well done ASUS, I fully intended on getting this device for myself, now this just guarantee's I will sooner rather than later.

4.1.2012 06:00 #4

LordRuss

OK... No, I understood the tool, I was confused that Asus would put all this DRM into their device & make all the Mucky-mucks cluck with Happy happy, but then turn around right after the new year, fly the bird into the DRM crowd & give the tools to the creative freebee developmental folks trying to make a name for themselves.

Most if NONE corporations do that. Of all the ranting & postulating I do in here, this is one of the few times I have seen a company give a stance & vocal opinion that said "here guys, make something". I mean in the damn near 50 years I've been alive, I certainly haven't heard it. Not from a company this big.

http://onlyinrussellsworld.blogspot.com

4.1.2012 11:19 #5

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