Microsoft introduces their Surface Tablets

    So Microsoft today introduced their Surface tablets which will be Microsoft branded.  The first is their Windows RT tablet which is ARM-based.  This big boy (10.6" screen) will feature NVIDIA Tegra-based processor weighing in at a 676 grams (1.5 lbs) and only 9.3 millimeters thick.  It will come with either 32GB or 64GB capacity.   No details on screen resolution.  Price was not announced but Microsoft stated it will be competitively priced.  Should be available around Windows 8 launch (fall 2012).

    Microsoft also will introduce an Intel-based Windows 8 Pro tablet that will also have a 10.6" screen but have full HD (1080p).  The processor is an Intel i5 Ivy Bridge and will pack a large storage capacity, 64GB or 128GB.  The Windows 8 Pro tablet is heavier (903 grams or about 2 lbs) and thicker (13.5 millimeters) than the Windows RT.  Both are also identical in appearance so you will see little difference except for the thickness.  Again no pricing was announced but figure this should be an expensive tablet competing with ultrabook laptops (figure $1,000).  The Windows 8 Pro is intended for corporate as consumers will not likely want to spend that amount for a tablet.

     One neat feature is the smartcover that has a built-in multi-touch keyboard and trackpad.

     (Editorial Opinion: I doubt this will have traction with consumers.  Maybe corporate but Microsoft is so behind.  Apple has been making grounds in enterprise.   More and more iPhones and iPads are becoming standard corporate-issued equipment.  Also the pricing on these Surface tablets will keep consumers away.)