I did never own the old/plastic keyboard.
I’ve ordered Hi12 two months ago, it arrived one month ago and the keyboard was the new metalic. I didn’t even know that I was ordering it, I just checked “keyboard”. I think they just replaced the old one with the new one and the plastic one was discontinued.
What I’m also lacking is the keyboard lock – Asus Transformer’s keyboard wasn’t just attached by magnets, but there was a physical lock – much more safe.
BTW: I’m looking for a bag/case/sleeve for Hi12, but it must fit even with the keyboard. Some tips?