Microsoft Unveils Its Own Surface Tablets Running Windows 8

June 19, 2012 at 12:25 GMT | By John Williams



Reporters and journalists scurried off to Los Angeles yesterday for Microsoft's last-minute press event. Steve Ballmer, CEO of Microsoft kicked off the event, saying "Windows is the heart and soul of Microsoft." Ballmer continued: "Today we want to add another piece to the Windows 8 story, partnerships are essential to the future of Windows. We wanted to give Windows 8 its own hardware innovation. It's something new, something different, it's a whole new family of computing devices from Microsoft," said Ballmer. Then, he held a tablet on stage, which "embodies the notion that software and hardware pushes each other." Enter the Surface, a tablet that will surely leave Cupertino boots quaking and condemn all those half-baked Android tablets to insignificance, all in one fell swoop.



The Microsoft-branded 10.6in devices with a keyboard that doubles as a cover, will come in two forms: one with an ARM chip ("WinRT"), and another with an Intel chip ("x86"). Software can be written to run on both, but unlike Windows PCs, it won't be exactly the same software on both.



Features:

  • Surface is thin, light and it has a great battery. At 9.3mm, Surface for Windows RT is just thin enough to still sport a full sized USB port. Print, share, or charge your phone on the go.2 Head out knowing that you are ready for anything.

  • Surface has a 10.6", 16:9 widescreen HD Display. Microsoft's ClearType HD Display technology delivers a great picture for movies. An ultra-wide viewing angle makes it easy for your friends to share in the vibrant experience. The auto-adjusting screen intensity delivers great visual clarity, indoors and out. The addition of the Micro SD card slot means you can bring your entire movie and music collection with you on vacation.

  • Surface comes with an integrated Kickstand and a revolutionary, 3mm thin, pressure sensitive cover that doubles as a fully functioning keyboard and trackpad. Your Touch Cover connects to your Surface with a single magnetic click. Now you can chat with friends and respond to emails comfortably.

  • Surface has not just one, but two cameras. Use the front LifeCam to chat with the people that you care about. The rear-facing LifeCam is angled to 22 degrees so you can flip out the Kickstand and record meetings and events hands-free. Stereo speakers and dual microphones tuned for Skype help you sound like you are right next door.

  • Surface comes with a precision crafted VaporMg casing that protects the vital technology inside and leaves a high quality finish and feel.

  • Touch Cover comes in five vibrant colors. Type Cover offers classic typing experience for those who prefer a more traditional keyboard. Pick the one that best meets your needs and represents your sense of style.



The Microsoft Surface RT is expected to launch in October, with the Pro following on 3 months later. Microsoft says pricing will be decided nearer the launch date. As disappointing as it is that we might be waiting an eternity, we would rather Microsoft took their time in getting Windows 8 ready and the pricing on point.

Is this the iPad killer? What do you guys think?

SOURCE: Surface.com

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  • About the Author
    John S. Williams

    John fell in love with the Microsoft mobile platform the moment he laid his eyes on the indomitable HTC HD2. Currently an IT project manager, John devotes the little time he can spare to WPSF. Current device » Nokia Lumia 800



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