Surface Windows 8 Unveiled
There has been speculation for some time that Microsoft would be entering the tablet market as a direct competitor to Apple’s iPad and Google’s Android devices. This market has exploded over the past 2 years, with Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, stating in March that the tablet will soon surpass the market for PC’s.
With this week’s announcement of the launch of the Surface tablet, what does Microsoft’s entry into this market really mean for competitors and consumers?
For starters, Windows 8 (due out in October) is specifically designed and built for use on tablets and touchscreen devices which is going to make it a hard act to follow for other competitors.
Prior to the development of Surface, Microsoft collected licenses from their software being used by other hardware producers so where does this leave these other producers now? Sure, they may have agreements in place to continue running Windows software but will consumers really want to purchase these now that Microsoft themselves are in the running with a complete package?
Microsoft is aiming its sights at both the consumer and enterprise market, with one Surface model running Windows RT (ARM – with either 32GB or 64GB) and the other Surface running Windows 8 Pro (Intel – either 64GB or 128GB). This version is heavier but will have a higher resolution – and therefore could appeal to the corporate market.
Design-wise, a selection of magnetised, protective covers will enable consumers to personalise the tablet which also doubles up as a keyboard. The addition of this innovative keyboard may well persuade potential PC purchasers to change their minds and choose a more ‘flexible’ and portable device instead. The slimline keyboard can more than replace a laptop as it will enable users to view the see it as a central tool rather than using several devices for similar purposes. The current version of the iPad simply cannot replace a laptop.
So this seems to be a great new development in the market for the consumer but not so much for others. Especially those hardware partners who run Windows on their devices already, as Microsoft have well and truly thrown down the gauntlet. Who will respond first? We eagerly await the response from the market when Surface becomes available for purchase.
