Asus has announced a new version of its Transformer Book convertible, which will be one of the first Windows devices to use the new USB Type-C connector. The USB Type-C first appeared on the 12in Apple MacBook - in fact, it's the only port on the entire device. It seems Asus is opting for a similar approach with the Transformer Book T100HA, which features just the one USB Type-C port beneath the volume control.
Unlike conventional USB ports, the USB Type-C can be used to both charge the device and for connecting external peripherals, such as a disk drive, printer or mouse. With only one port, however, you will need to buy an adapter to plug in a peripheral and charge the device at the same time, unless Asus decides to include one in the box.
The Transformer Book is so called because the 10.1in tablet comes with a detachable keyboard, allowing owners to use the device in either tablet or laptop mode. The new version promises to be the slimmest yet, measuring only 8.45mm and weighing 580g, without the keyboard.
It will come pre-loaded with Windows 10, and will be powered by one of the new Intel Atom 'Cherry Trail' processors, which is the processor family found inside Microsoft's Surface 3 tablet. Atom processors are low-power parts, which is why Asus is promising 14 hours of battery life from the new Transformer Book.
The metallic-finish device will be available in four colours, which have the usual flowery names: Silk White, Tin Grey, Aqua Blue and Rouge Pink. The device will be released in the autumn, and there are no pricing details at this time. If previous models are anything to go by, we'd expect a price in the £300 to £350 range.
