Microsoft’s recent announcement that it’s entering the tablet market by producing not just one, but two tablets can hardly be called a “launch” as the Microsoft for Windows 8 RT and the Microsoft for Windows 8 Pro won’t even be available for another 3-6 months. Compare that with Google’s announcement of its first tablet, the Nexus 7, which will be available approximately a month after the company introduced it at its recent Google I/O event.
Regardless of the long wait time and the absence of a few important details, there are many who are eager to get their hands on one of these two slates – both of which are anticipated to be somewhat high-end.
Microsoft Surface for Windows 8 RT
Although the RT version of the Microsoft Surface tablet will include Microsoft Office, it will run a pared down version of Windows 8. To get the full Windows 8 you’ll have to wait three additional months for the Pro model. Even so, the RT model offers lots of fun features. Let’s take a look.
Specs for the Microsoft Surface for Windows 8 RT:
* Processor: NVIDIA Silicon Tegra-based ARM
* Weight: 1.48 lbs
* Thickness: .37”
* Screen: 10.6 inch “Clear Type HD”
* Pixels: 1280X720 (best guess)
* Storage: 32GB or 64GB of internal storage and microSD slot
* I/O: USB 2.0, Micro HD Video, 2X2 MIMO antennae, forward and back facing cameras
* Extras: Touch/Type Cover options, built-in kickstand, stereo speaker
* Available: Fall of 2012, release of Windows 8
* Pricing: “Comparable with other tablets”
The specs leave us guessing on pixel density and exact pricing, but it also piques our interest and desire to know more.
Touch Cover with Integrated Keyboard
One of the more innovative aspects of the Surface for Windows 8 RT tablet is its cover, which duals as a keyboard. The 3mm thick Touch Cover magnetically attaches to the tablet and offers an integrated pressure sensitive keyboard designed to distinguish between fingers merely resting on the keys and actual keystrokes.
Another interesting thing about the Touch Cover is that the color of the cover influences the background displayed on the screen. Microsoft execs demoed this at the announcement showing attendees how the hot pink keyboard caused the background to turn a brilliant hot pink. The screen’s background color changes from turquoise to red to black depending on the color of the keyboard being used with the tablet.
For those who prefer a truer keyboard experience Microsoft also offers the 5mm Type Cover which has actually keys.
It’s interesting to witness the various forms tablets are taking. On the one hand are the smaller 7” inch value models offered by Google and Amazon, while on the other hand are the new Microsoft Surface for Windows 8 tablets with size and specs similar to the iPad. What size and features do you prefer in a tablet?