Thoughts: Microsoft Surface unveiled!

Yesterday night, Microsoft introduced its new tablet called Surface. On first glance this is a really cool looking tablet. I thought I would highlight the key differences of each tablet they announced. There are two different versions being released (ARM vs Intel). Below you will find the key differences that are available to use.

Looks like Microsoft is looking to make a impact on the tablet market, but personally I want to see what Google and Apple’s response to this is. I feel that Windows 8 is going to be the next “Vista” for Microsoft, and the next version they will fully develop a workable model; i.e. Win7. As awesome as this looks, I am a bit hesitant with Microsoft when it comes to their own hardware. I am sure that Microsoft would like to take back their Zune saga, but that is in the past and now they have learned from it. When it comes to new technology, I feel Microsoft has one of the more rocky starts.

In no way am I bashing Microsoft. I love Windows 7, and for me Windows Vista was decent. Windows Phone is an intriguing OS for phones and it looks like Microsoft is trying to migrate their business strategy to their Tiles model. It started on Windows Phone, next the Xbox, and now finally Windows itself. I am hoping for the best with this tablet but I am ready for the worst. I have always dreamed of the day I wouldn’t have to lug around a 10lb laptop. As mentioned, Apple and Google are sure to have their own response to this and quite frankly I am excited. With Google I/O next week, let us see what all the competitors have to offer before we label a tablet as the champion.

Surface for Windows RT tablet

• Processor: NVIDIA Tegra-based ARM chip
• Weight: 676 grams
• Thickness: 9.3 millimeters
• Display: 10.6-inch ClearType HD capacitive touchpanel
• Battery: 31.5Wh
• I/O: microSD, USB 2.0, Micro HD Video, 2×2 MIMO antennae
• Software: Windows RT + Office Home & Student 2013 RT
• Accessories: Touch Cover, Type Cover, VaporMg Case & Stand
• Capacity: 32GB / 64GB
• Availability: “Around” the Windows 8 launch (fall 2012)
• Pricing: To be determined

Surface for Windows 8 Pro tablet

• Processor: Intel Core i5 (Ivy Bridge)
• Weight: 903 grams
• Thickness: 13.5 millimeters
• Display: 10.6-inch ClearType Full HD (1080p) capacitive touchpanel
• Battery: 42Wh
• I/O: microSDXC, USB 3.0, Mini DisplayPort, 2×2 MIMO antennae
• Software: Windows 8 Pro
• Accessories: Touch Cover, Type Cover, VaporMg Case & Stand, Pen with Palm Block
• Capacity: 64GB / 128GB
• Availability: “Three months after” the Windows 8 launch this fall
• Pricing: To be determined

http://www.microsoft.com/surface/en/us/default.aspx