The Transformer Prime is a nice tablet. The GPS problems it suffers due to its all-aluminum case, however, are not. We've heard that ASUS is planning on alleviating these problems with a GPS dongle, and now we're finally getting a look at it. It's uh...well, it sure is a dongle

2012-04-15 22h06_22

According to Land of Droid, this giant, we'll say, wand-looking thing, is the GPS dongle that's going to "fix" the Transformer Prime's GPS issues. Of course, from the looks of it, this dongle creates some problems of its own. For starters, subtle it is not. It's a huge, ugly block on the top of an otherwise gorgeous tablet. More importantly, it uses the same plug as the keyboard dock and the charging cables to connect to the tablet.

It's a little difficult to tell from these pictures if you would be able to charge/use your dock through the GPS dongle, or if you'd be forced to choose between a keyboard or working GPS. If I had to bet, I'd put my money on the latter. Thankfully, you Prime owners won't have to put any money on anything, as the dongle will be entirely free.

We should be hearing an announcement about this from ASUS tomorrow. While there's no real reason to doubt the veracity of these photos, I can't help but hope that this isn't the real device. Sure, the Prime has its GPS issues, but sticking this ugly thing on it and screwing with one of the best distinguishing features in the process feels like adding insult to injury at this point.

Update:

The sign-up page is now live! You have until July 31st to apply for the free dongle.

Source: Land of Droid