1:00 AM
Paul B
Microsoft just announced that they are throwing their hat into the tablet ring a meazly two years after the announcement of the first iPad. Way to stay competitive guys! Microsoft's new tablet is being called the Microsoft Surface.
The interesting thing about this announcement is that this will be Microsoft's first attempt at producing the actual hardware for a computer device rather than just making the software for a device that will run on a different company's hardware. Will this new device pay off for the software giant? With their attempts at competing with Apple on the hand held entertainment front goes with products like the Zune and their mobile phones, it's not promising.
Although full specs have not been released yet, we do know that the Surface will have a 10.6" display, two covers, several color options and will be running on Windows 8. From CBS News:
There are two types of covers: A Touch cover, which will detect gestures as typing, and a Type cover that doubles as a full keyboard, for people who need or want more than an on-screen keyboard. Covers include a built-in kickstand to prop the tablet up. Stereo speakers and dual microphones with a rear-facing camera will support video calls using Skype, which Microsoft bought last year.
The device will come in a choice of five colors and be just over a third of an inch thick. Users will have a choice of 32GB or 64GB of storage. Units will offer a full-sized USB 2.0 port, that will likely be compatible with a larger number of devices than the iPad, a microSD port to use external memory chips, and a micro HD video connector to attach an external monitor.
Check out this video promo for the surface:
Price and availability haven't been released yet, but it's estimated to be offered between $600 and $1000.
I don't know about you, but I think I will stick to my Android tablet. What do you think? Will the Microsoft Surface be as popular as Android tablets or the iPad? Why or why not? Let us know what your think in the comments!
