ASUS Begin to Respond to Transformer Prime Locked Bootloader Questions

Update: ASUS has provided the following update…

“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.” – ASUS

ASUS has started to respond to the concerns about the Transformer Prime having a locked bootloader. Earlier today we reported that ASUS had opted to secure the bootloader by putting 128-bit encryption in front of it which prevents users being able to install custom ROMs on to the device.

The statement from Italy indicates that users just need to accept it as it is because it’s more secure that way as well as being more stable. They then go on to say that any unlocking of the bootloader would void warranty.

As well as Italy commenting, the US has also commented by saying they are preparing a statement. We expect to see this in the next day or so.

A comment over on Slashgear hints that Poland has given an answer that relates to the Tegra 3 chip used inside. The locked bootloader was dictated by usage of the Tegra 3 platform as it has built in encryption and bootloader locking.

Give it another day or so and we should be more clear as to what the exact problem is. Perhaps it is Tegra3 related, or perhaps ASUS just wants to keep it locked and prevent modders from installing different firmware. If ASUS doesn’t respond how the users want though, it could backfire and lead to the decision being reversed just like HTC from last year who also decided to unlock all future and recent bootloaders.