Microsoft Surface scheduled for Oct 26th launch Source
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The Christmas rush for the latest hot products is going to be more interesting than ever this year, with the release of the Microsoft Surface scheduled for October the 26th.
The Surface is Microsoft’s answer to the Apple iPad and it’ll be one of the first devices to be running the Windows 8 operating system. In a first for Microsoft the Surface will be a series of Microsoft-designed and manufactured hardware devices. That’s not pleasing hardware manufacturers who have partnered with Microsoft over the years, although they’ve manufactured the xBox they’ve never made pure computing devices before, instead allowing other manufacturers to make PCs and Laptops to run Windows on.
Microsoft plan to sell the device themselves, with 32 pop up store sites earmarked across the US for the launch date. These will be temporary locations in addition to the (surprising low) couple of dozen permanent Microsoft stores in the US. That will be a challenge for Microsoft, Apple who will be the main competitor for the Surface have stores in almost every major city in the world.
Regardless how difficult it is to buy in a retail store sales of the new device are expected to be strong. The big question is if you’re planning to buy a tablet which should you go for? Would you buy a Microsoft Surface instead of an Apple iPad?
What about Android tablets, which whilst adequate for browsing and email aren’t a patch on a laptop when it comes to functions such as word processing – with a detachable keyboard the Surface solves both the hardware and software limitations of other devices. Will Microsoft be able to attract customers away from Apple and Android by offering a Windows device on which you could install almost any software you choose?
I’m definitely tempted by the Surface, but with the price likely to be over £1000 it’s probably not going to be an immediate purchase. It’s looking very attractive though and as I’m not already an Apple customer I’d certainly favour it over the iPad.
If it's true that they're selling for 199 dollars, then I WILL be the first one in line
I am actually excited for this... I just don't know how I feel about Windows 8, still.
Then again, I only tested the consumer release on my PC, which isn't the same as a touchscreen
I am actually excited for this... I just don't know how I feel about Windows 8, still.
Then again, I only tested the consumer release on my PC, which isn't the same as a touchscreen
Yeah, I don't think I'll updgrade to Windows 8 because it's probably still buggy and all that, and there might be compatibility issues. But I'll still buy the 14.99 upgrade though
I am actually excited for this... I just don't know how I feel about Windows 8, still.
Then again, I only tested the consumer release on my PC, which isn't the same as a touchscreen
Yeah, definitely built with the tablet interface in mind.
Yeah, I don't think I'll updgrade to Windows 8 because it's probably still buggy and all that, and there might be compatibility issues. But I'll still buy the 14.99 upgrade though
Because I'm a dumbass I upgraded to Windows 8 without partitioning it, so now I'm stuck with it. Honestly though, I love it. It flows well, I do notice a bug here and there but it's never anything major and the UI is really convenient for me. I love it.
Microsoft to launch Surface at midnight on October 26th
Microsoft has started sending out invites to a special "Surface Reception" event on October 25th. Alongside a Windows 8 introduction, the software giant will launch its highly anticipated tablet at midnight on October 26th — according to a company spokesperson. Some of Microsoft's holiday pop-up stores will open for the Surface launch at midnight, with other Microsoft Stores selling the tablet on October 26th.
Microsoft has not yet confirmed pricing for its Surface tablet, with CEO Steve Ballmer hinting that "probably $300 to about $700 or $800" is the "sweet spot" for pricing.
Boy Genius Report claimed Tuesday that Microsoft plans to release its own Windows Phone 8 smartphone under the “Surface” name, although the phone’s release wouldn’t come until the second round or so of Windows Phone 8 devices. That report has apparently been confirmed, or at least echoed, by the China Times.
UM im soooo getting the Surface and think its beautiful. .. plus is ****ing windows. The OS is still impeccable. Surface phones are basically windows 8 phones but made by Microsoft? The designs will slay lives. Surface is absolutely evolutionary with the whole cover/keyboard hybrid idea.