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The Asus Transformer line of Android tablets gets a lot of attention — and for good reason. These tablets have fast processors, slim designs, and offer the option of connecting a keyboard dock for extended typing sessions — and extended battery life.

Every member of the Transformer family can also now run the latest version of Google’s Android operating system.

But what if you ignored my advice and opted for the Eee Pad Slider with it’s built-in, slide-out keyboard instead of the Transformer? It turns out you can get in on the Android 4.0 action too.

Asus started pushing a software update to Eee Pad Slider SL101 users in the US today. It updates the firmware to version 9.2.1.21 and brings Android 4.0 to the tablet.

The Eee Pad Slider was released in 2011 and features a 10.1 inch, 1280 x 800 pixel display and 1 GHz NVIDIA Tegra 2 dual core processor. What gives the Slider its name is the pull-out keyboard that hides behind the screen when you’re not using it.

Unfortunately the keyboard is tiny, cramped, and difficult to use — and the panel it rests on makes the tablet much thicker and heavier than most 10 inch Android tablets. If you really want a tablet with a keyboard you might be better off buying the Transformer or a similar device with an optional keyboard docking station or a Bluetooth keyboard.

One good thing the Slider has going for it is that it’s cheaper than buying an Asus Transformer and keyboard dock. You can pick up the Slider from Overstock.com for $465 or from MacMall for $470.

via Android Police