Microsoft scheduled a major announcement last evening and it turned out to be the revelation of the company's first tablet running Windows 8. In order to successfully enter the tablet market, Microsoft needed a unique approach and they went ahead and delivered with the Microsoft Surface.The Microsoft Surface will debut in two flavors – One version will run Windows RT and be powered by an NVidia Tegra ARM processor, while the other will be a more powerful version with an Intel Core i5 Ivy Bridge processor under its hood.
The Microsoft Surface with Windows RT will come with either 32GB or 64GB of storage which can be expanded through microSD. It will be lighter than its sibling but will have a smaller collection of apps on its fairly new tablet OS. The major advantage on this ARM based tablet is that it will pack the touch optimized Office 2013 RT for no extra charge. While Microsoft did not reveal the pricing, they did suggest that it will be priced competitively with existing ARM based tablets, so we estimate it to be in the $450 – $600 range.
The other Microsoft Surface will be available in 64GB and 128GB models and run Windows 8 Pro. Along with its powerful third generation Core i5 processor it even comes with a full HD display. Having the powerful hardware adds some weight to this tablet, which has even fit a stylus into its frame. The Intel version of the Surface tablet is said to cost around the same price as modern day Ultrabooks.
Both tablets come with an in built kickstand which are built into its liquid metal Magnesium alloy case which is scratch and ware resistant. It’s dual antenna design promises an un-parallel Wi-Fi experience and it’s display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass.
The Microsoft Surface even comes with a ‘Touch Cover’ which is just 3 mm thin which doubles as a multi touch keyboard and trackpad. Touch Cover is available in a selection of colors to suit your personality. Windows will even detect the color of your Touch Cover and change its theme accordingly.
When you are not using your Touch Cover you can just fold it back, and it will recognize its new position and will turn itself off
Microsoft also introduced a ‘Type Cover’ accessory for anyone who would prefer a physical keyboard.
Windows 8 will support digital Ink, and the Microsoft Surface takes full advantage of that with it’s complimentary stylus. The writing is sharp and accurate and with Palm block technology which will ensure your hand won't get in the way of what you are writing with your stylus.
You can watch the entire keynote and see the unveiling of the Microsoft Surface in the following video.