Mobile and Wireless: Microsoft Surface Tablets Set the Stage for Windows 8
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At a June 18 event in Hollywood, Calif., Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer unveiled the company's new Surface: PCs built to be the ultimate stage for Windows. Company executives showed two Windows tablets and accessories that feature significant advances in industrial design and attention to detail. Surface is designed to seamlessly transition between the consumption and creation of content. Conceived, designed and engineered entirely by Microsoft engineers, and building on the company's 30-year history manufacturing hardware, Surface represents the company's latest effort to break into the tablet market, and offer a portable PC that has a chance to compete against the likes of the Apple iPad. Two models of Surface will be available: one running an ARM processor featuring Windows RT, and one with a third-generation Intel Core processor featuring Windows 8 Pro. According to Microsoft, these Surface tablets offer a fast and fluid interface that will allow users to take advantage of the upcoming Windows 8 operating system, as well as apps designed for the new OS. Surface for Windows RT will release with the general availability of Windows 8, and the Windows 8 Pro model will be available about 90 days later. Both will be sold in Microsoft Store locations in the United States and available through select online Microsoft Stores. Here is a look at the new form factor.
Surface Touch Cover
The 3mm Touch Cover represents a step forward in human-computer interface, according to Microsoft. Using a unique pressure-sensitive technology, the Touch Cover senses keystrokes as gestures, enabling you to touch type significantly faster than with an on-screen keyboard. It will be available in a selection of vibrant colors.
