Naturally, Asus is going to be at CES 2017. This early, however, it is leaving nothing to chance, careful to generate as much buzz as possible.
Zennovation Event Trailer
The company has just fired one of its marketing salvos dedicated to shine light on its CES event. This involves a teaser video that introduces the upcoming Zennovation, the Asus CES event that will begin on Jan. 4.
There were no specifically identified devices save for the silhouette of a smartphone. The entire narrative has been more about general terms, touting how Asus approaches innovation and product development.
However, one could still find some clues embedded in the script and the visuals if one looks closely enough. For example, the narrator kept on repeating concepts such as innovation, exploration, and our sense of sight.
These have been reinforced by footage that focus on the human eye, sensory depictions, and symbolisms that pertain to the unknown, such as spinning alien worlds and so on.
ZenFone AR
Based on the said elements, one can only surmise that Asus is poised to introduce something that is not yet included in its product line. This could possibly include a ZenFone that is capable of augmented reality via Google Tango. Such device effectively covers the allusion to the sense of sight, the exploration of something new, and innovation in general.
Asus has already leaked that it is bound to release a device called ZenFone AR, although there is no word about its release date.
"The ZenFone AR will come with advanced functionality and performance at a competitive price," Jerry Shen, Asustek Computer CEO, said during Asus' Q3 investor conference.
Asus VR
There is also the possibility that Asus will unveil a refreshed version of its own proprietary virtual reality technology. The company has already exhibited a VR headset last May during its Computex event. The device sported a flashier construction as it was made of metal and held in place by fancy leather straps.
Recently Microsoft has also identified Asus as one of its partners in producing tethered VR headsets along with HP, Dell, Lenovo, and Acer. Interestingly, this involved devices working on a VR platform based on Windows 10.
The Microsoft partnership could also provide some insights as to the pricing of future Asus VR or AR gear. According to officials at Redmond, the VR headsets will retail for $300, which is drastically cheaper than the Oculus Rift and even its own HoloLens, which cost $800 and $3,000, respectively.
