Microsoft looks to be squaring up to Apple on the tablet computer scene with its announcement of Microsoft Surface, unveiled last night during a press conference.
Surface comes in two different flavours, Surface for Windows RT and Surface for Windows Pro. The former is powered by an nVidia ARM mobile processor and uses Windows RT, Microsoft’s tablet operating system. Two versions of Surface for Windows RT will be available: 32GB and 64GB models.
Surface for Windows Pro is the meatier of the two Surface devices and runs Windows 8. It is powered by a third generation Intel Ivy Bridge Core i5 processor, giving it a decent boost in processing power over the Windows RT model at the expense of being slightly chunkier. It will also be available in two different versions, offering 64GB and 128GB storage options.
Both models of Surface have a fold out stand on the back that allows them to be propped up at an angle. Pair this with the magnetic clip-on cover that folds down to reveal a keyboard and track pad and you have a touchscreen tablet PC that can be turned into a work station without additional accessories.
There’s no concrete release date for either model yet, but according to Engadget, Surface for Windows RT will be available “around” the release of Windows 8 this autumn with Surface for Windows Pro following three months after. You can find a list of dimensions and connections on both Surface devices below.
Surface for Windows RT
- Weight: 676g
- Thickness: 9.5mm
- Display: 10.6-inch ClearType HD capactive touchpanel
- Battery: 31.5Wh
- Connections: microSD, USB 2.0, Micro HD Video, 2×2 MIMO antennae
Surface for Windows Pro
- Weight: 903g
- Thickness: 13.5mm
- Display: 10.6-inch ClearType Full HD (1080p) capactive touchpanel
- Battery: 42Wh
- Connections: microSDXC, USB 3.0, Mini DisplayPort, 2×2 MIMO antennae
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