Microsoft Surface Tablets Set the Stage for Windows 8

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.

Surface Side Profile

Surface sports a full-sized USB port and a 16:9 aspect ratio—the industry standard for high definition. It has edges angled at 22 degrees, a natural position for the PC at rest or in active use.

Surface Grey

Conceived, designed and engineered entirely by Microsoft employees and engineers, and building on the company's 30-year history manufacturing hardware, Surface will enable users to seamlessly transition between consumption and creation, without compromise.

Surface Integrated Kickstand

Surface features a built-in kickstand that lets users transition Surface from active use to passive consumption.

Surface Family

Here is a Surface in blue. Microsoft is offering the new Windows-based tablet in several colors.

Surface Demo

Mike Angiulo, Microsoft corporate vice president, Windows Planning, Hardware & PC Ecosystem, shows off Surface at the June 18 unveiling in Hollywood, Calif.

Surface Functionality

Panos Panay, general manager, Microsoft Surface, demos the new functionality of Microsoft's new Surface, as well as accessories, at the premier event.

Surface Accessories

Steven Sinofsky, president, Windows and Windows Live Division, as well as Angiulo and Panay demonstrate the new Surface PC and accessories.

Steve Ballmer and Surface

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer shows off the Surface tablet at the event. Microsoft has tried unsuccessfully for many years to offer Windows on a tablet. This time, the company believes it has the right combination of hardware, software and apps to make it work.

Sinofsky and Surface

Here, Sinofsky shows off more of the Surface tablet. Microsoft is making a big bet on Windows 8 and its ability to work with both ARM and x86 microprocessors.

First Look

Attendees get their first look at Microsoft's new family of PCs for Windows, Surface.

Look and Touch

Attendees check out Microsoft's new line of tablets and accessories for Windows PCs, Surface. Ed Bott of ZDNet gets his hands on one of the new Microsoft Surface tablets.