Published on June 19th, 2012 | by Robert Orcutt

ON THE SURFACE…..MICROSOFT’S TABLET

Microsoft’s CEO Steve Ballmer introduced to a very limited press pool the new innovation for Microsoft; a tablet they call Surface. And while many see it as the next step in the computer hardware/software giant, others see it as a slap in the face to Microsoft’s partnerships with many computer companies that use Microsoft’s software as their operating systems.

Whether this next step for Microsoft is reflected in a good light or a bad light, on the surface – the tablet’s sales reports after it’s launch in 4th quater this year will be the tell-all.

The tablet is 9.3 mm thick, runs Windows RT OS, has a built in “kickstand” to keep it upright and has a variety of colors to choose from…and uses a touch keyboard that “snaps” on and comes in a variety of application uses. This model comes in at under 1.5 pounds making is just about as light as they come for a 10″ tablet. Price point isnt official, but is hinted at costing “just about” as much as other tablet computers.

A slightly thicker model measuring at 14mm thick and under 2 pounds will also be available. This model will run on the upcoming WIndows 8 Pro OS and will cost in the neighborhood of an Ultrabook. The pro also comes with a stylus and the tablet will be able to recognize handwriting with it.

Both tablets have keyboards and a variety of colors to personalize the tablet the way you want. They will run proprietary Microsoft Store apps. Each also comes with USB 2.0 and HDMI ports. These along with Windows 8 could make this tablet a dockable device that can be used as an Ultrabook/Tablet combo.

More details are bound to unfold over the coming days, including official pricing lists.

How about it? Does the Microsoft Tablet interest you much? What do you think about them?

source: Microsoft

photo credit: Associated Press

by: Robert Orcutt