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Microsoft Surface prices to start at $499 or £399 Microsoft Surface prices to start at $499 or £399
(about 7 hours later)
Microsoft's Surface tablet will be priced from $499 for a 32GB version in the US – and £399 in the UK – and go on sale on 26 October in eight countries including the UK, the company said on Tuesday.Microsoft's Surface tablet will be priced from $499 for a 32GB version in the US – and £399 in the UK – and go on sale on 26 October in eight countries including the UK, the company said on Tuesday.
The announcement came just hours before Apple sent out teaser invitations for an event in San Francisco on 23 October, with the tagline "We've got a little more to show you" – widely expected to be a smaller "iPad mini" along with a revision to its tablet line to incorporate its new "Lightning" connector.The announcement came just hours before Apple sent out teaser invitations for an event in San Francisco on 23 October, with the tagline "We've got a little more to show you" – widely expected to be a smaller "iPad mini" along with a revision to its tablet line to incorporate its new "Lightning" connector.
Announcing the long-awaited details of its pricing, Microsoft said that the base model will cost $499 – which gives it the same price as a base-level iPad 3, though that only has 16GB of storage – while a version with an integral keyboard cover will cost $599. A 64GB version with a bundled keyboard cover will cost $699.Announcing the long-awaited details of its pricing, Microsoft said that the base model will cost $499 – which gives it the same price as a base-level iPad 3, though that only has 16GB of storage – while a version with an integral keyboard cover will cost $599. A 64GB version with a bundled keyboard cover will cost $699.
In the UK, the starting 32GB model will cost £399, the same as the base iPad 3, and the cover with integrated keyboard will cost an additional £100 if bought separately.In the UK, the starting 32GB model will cost £399, the same as the base iPad 3, and the cover with integrated keyboard will cost an additional £100 if bought separately.
The prices are thus £399 for a 32GB model with no cover, £479 for the 32GB model with cover, and £559 for the 64GB model with cover.The prices are thus £399 for a 32GB model with no cover, £479 for the 32GB model with cover, and £559 for the 64GB model with cover.
The Surface will go on sale in the US and Canada in Microsoft stores, and will be available for online orders in the UK, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Australia and China.The Surface will go on sale in the US and Canada in Microsoft stores, and will be available for online orders in the UK, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Australia and China.
Unlike Apple with the existing iPad line, Microsoft is not offering a 3G-capable version. For its size, the Surface's 1366x768 screen has a lower resolution than that of the iPad 3, although it is comparable with 2011's iPad 2, which has a 1024x768 resolution, and is priced from £329 for a 16GB model.Unlike Apple with the existing iPad line, Microsoft is not offering a 3G-capable version. For its size, the Surface's 1366x768 screen has a lower resolution than that of the iPad 3, although it is comparable with 2011's iPad 2, which has a 1024x768 resolution, and is priced from £329 for a 16GB model.
The Surface is based on ARM chips, using the same British chip architecture as in almost every mobile phone, and runs a new touch-based version of Windows written for ARM called Windows RT. Existing Windows apps will not run on it.The Surface is based on ARM chips, using the same British chip architecture as in almost every mobile phone, and runs a new touch-based version of Windows written for ARM called Windows RT. Existing Windows apps will not run on it.
However, owners will be able to download pre-approved apps from an online Windows Store – like Apple's App Store for the iPad – which will run on the Surface. The tablet will also come with a copy of Microsoft's Office suite specially written to run on the RT platform.However, owners will be able to download pre-approved apps from an online Windows Store – like Apple's App Store for the iPad – which will run on the Surface. The tablet will also come with a copy of Microsoft's Office suite specially written to run on the RT platform.
The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday that Microsoft has ordered production of between 3m and 5m of the devices this quarter, comparable with the total production last year of Amazon's Kindle Fire. Amazon finally stopped selling those at the end of summer.The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday that Microsoft has ordered production of between 3m and 5m of the devices this quarter, comparable with the total production last year of Amazon's Kindle Fire. Amazon finally stopped selling those at the end of summer.
It's not clear whether Microsoft intends to keep producing the Surface tablet, or whether it aims to kickstart a new segment of the tablet market by offering its own product at a keen price. By challenging Apple's iPad – which has so far been the majority seller in the tablet market – it may be trying to build a bridgehead for tablets against Apple.It's not clear whether Microsoft intends to keep producing the Surface tablet, or whether it aims to kickstart a new segment of the tablet market by offering its own product at a keen price. By challenging Apple's iPad – which has so far been the majority seller in the tablet market – it may be trying to build a bridgehead for tablets against Apple.
But the introduction of the iPad mini – echoing Apple's move in the digital music player market in January 2004, when it introduced the iPod mini and grabbed a significant chunk of that market – could leave Microsoft stuck competing at the high end.But the introduction of the iPad mini – echoing Apple's move in the digital music player market in January 2004, when it introduced the iPod mini and grabbed a significant chunk of that market – could leave Microsoft stuck competing at the high end.
CommentsComments
204 comments, displaying first 205 comments, displaying first
16 October 2012 6:07PM16 October 2012 6:07PM
Oh, oh, oh what a lovely war...Oh, oh, oh what a lovely war...
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16 October 2012 6:09PM16 October 2012 6:09PM
The onboard storage is kind of a moot point as it has both sdcard slot and usb ports unless I'm missing something.
Right?		The onboard storage is kind of a moot point as it has both sdcard slot and usb ports unless I'm missing something.
Right?
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16 October 2012 6:10PM16 October 2012 6:10PM
Hmmm... the fact there are only two comments is a sign in itself.Hmmm... the fact there are only two comments is a sign in itself.
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16 October 2012 6:12PM16 October 2012 6:12PM
Quiet in here...Quiet in here...
...too quiet....too quiet.
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16 October 2012 6:13PM16 October 2012 6:13PM
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/news/Press/2012/Oct12/10-16announcementPR.aspxhttps://www.microsoft.com/en-us/news/Press/2012/Oct12/10-16announcementPR.aspx
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16 October 2012 6:14PM16 October 2012 6:14PM
So they're offering me a touchscreen laptop for £500? No thanks. (Then again, that's all Apple are trying to offer me as well, although they try to pretend that the keyboard isn't needed, so I guess it's understandable.)So they're offering me a touchscreen laptop for £500? No thanks. (Then again, that's all Apple are trying to offer me as well, although they try to pretend that the keyboard isn't needed, so I guess it's understandable.)
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16 October 2012 6:15PM16 October 2012 6:15PM
on an article posted 45 minutes ago, and whilst people are on their way home from work? And if they have access to the Guardian it is likely on their mobile app that doesn't allow comments?on an article posted 45 minutes ago, and whilst people are on their way home from work? And if they have access to the Guardian it is likely on their mobile app that doesn't allow comments?
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16 October 2012 6:17PM16 October 2012 6:17PM
Back on topic, I would never entertain the idea of a buying any kind of tablet whilst they are their current price.Back on topic, I would never entertain the idea of a buying any kind of tablet whilst they are their current price.
Whilst very nifty, the price doesn't justify the functionality that you seem to get out of these devices.Whilst very nifty, the price doesn't justify the functionality that you seem to get out of these devices.
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16 October 2012 6:19PM16 October 2012 6:19PM
That's a good price for a very capable machine. I think MS have priced it so that it is a decent competitor for the iPad.That's a good price for a very capable machine. I think MS have priced it so that it is a decent competitor for the iPad.
But weird how in the same few hours in the US we not only had the Apple announcement of an event for the iPad Mini,but also Lenovo emailed me to pre-order the Yoga 13... interesting timesBut weird how in the same few hours in the US we not only had the Apple announcement of an event for the iPad Mini,but also Lenovo emailed me to pre-order the Yoga 13... interesting times
iPad Mini will do really really well, but 7" screen too small for doing worky things.iPad Mini will do really really well, but 7" screen too small for doing worky things.
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16 October 2012 6:21PM16 October 2012 6:21PM
According to Google $599 is only £372, but the $599 surface will cost £479. I know there is always a bit of a difference but that seems pretty big! Don't know if sales tax in the US will close that gap a bit though.According to Google $599 is only £372, but the $599 surface will cost £479. I know there is always a bit of a difference but that seems pretty big! Don't know if sales tax in the US will close that gap a bit though.
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16 October 2012 6:22PM16 October 2012 6:22PM
what functionality are you talking about? having an RT version of Office so that you can do work, having thousands of RT apps from the Windows Store? There are plenty of productivity and creativity apps already, and may more to come... I think the functionality is beyond question. So much so that the Surface Pro version (full Windows 8) may not be necessary - I was thinking about getting one to run legacy games like System Shock, but at this price the RT makes far more sense, can do 90% of the things you need/want to do surely?what functionality are you talking about? having an RT version of Office so that you can do work, having thousands of RT apps from the Windows Store? There are plenty of productivity and creativity apps already, and may more to come... I think the functionality is beyond question. So much so that the Surface Pro version (full Windows 8) may not be necessary - I was thinking about getting one to run legacy games like System Shock, but at this price the RT makes far more sense, can do 90% of the things you need/want to do surely?
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16 October 2012 6:24PM16 October 2012 6:24PM
Good job on managing to shoehorn as many Apple references in as possible - will get the clicks coming in nicely.Good job on managing to shoehorn as many Apple references in as possible - will get the clicks coming in nicely.
Waiting for a surface for Windows 8 Pro, which should be even better. I'm sure this article will be buried in no time under iPad mini advertorialsWaiting for a surface for Windows 8 Pro, which should be even better. I'm sure this article will be buried in no time under iPad mini advertorials
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16 October 2012 6:26PM16 October 2012 6:26PM
Pass.Pass.
I was intrested but the price is waaaay to high for what I would use a tablet for. This announcment confirms that I'll be buying a Nexus 7.I was intrested but the price is waaaay to high for what I would use a tablet for. This announcment confirms that I'll be buying a Nexus 7.
£400 minimum to surf a few websites, watch videos and play angry birds isnt even close to being worth it.£400 minimum to surf a few websites, watch videos and play angry birds isnt even close to being worth it.
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16 October 2012 6:27PM16 October 2012 6:27PM
For its size, the Surface's 1366x768 screen has a lower resolution than that of the iPad 3For its size, the Surface's 1366x768 screen has a lower resolution than that of the iPad 3
The Pro models are 1900x1080. While tempting, I hope they will announce the price of the Windows 8 Pro models soon. If that one would be priced similar to the iPad, that could kickstart the sale.I can't imagine a lot of people voluntarily spending more money on the Pro-models, if they can get an iPad which is a proven device, a lot cheaper. This would leave the Pro for enterprise and enthusiasts.The Pro models are 1900x1080. While tempting, I hope they will announce the price of the Windows 8 Pro models soon. If that one would be priced similar to the iPad, that could kickstart the sale.I can't imagine a lot of people voluntarily spending more money on the Pro-models, if they can get an iPad which is a proven device, a lot cheaper. This would leave the Pro for enterprise and enthusiasts.
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16 October 2012 6:32PM16 October 2012 6:32PM
Surface is the tablet PC that many of us have been waiting for. It's a lot more useful than an iPad. Despite the reasonable price, it's still much more economical to buy a laptop -- but Surface is more exciting than a laptop.Surface is the tablet PC that many of us have been waiting for. It's a lot more useful than an iPad. Despite the reasonable price, it's still much more economical to buy a laptop -- but Surface is more exciting than a laptop.
It seems odd that iPad is the only other tablet mentioned in this Apple-focussed article. Surface is the tablet PC that many of us have been waiting for. It's a lot more useful than an iPad. Despite the reasonable price, it's still much more economical to buy a laptop -- but Surface is more exciting than a laptop.It seems odd that iPad is the only other tablet mentioned in this Apple-focussed article. Surface is the tablet PC that many of us have been waiting for. It's a lot more useful than an iPad. Despite the reasonable price, it's still much more economical to buy a laptop -- but Surface is more exciting than a laptop.
It seems odd that iPad is the only other tablet mentioned in this Apple-focussed article.It seems odd that iPad is the only other tablet mentioned in this Apple-focussed article.
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16 October 2012 6:33PM16 October 2012 6:33PM
I was watching the TV programme ‘X-Ray’ last night (Wales only, like Watchdog) and they were using one and it had pride of place- that type of product placement might help.I was watching the TV programme ‘X-Ray’ last night (Wales only, like Watchdog) and they were using one and it had pride of place- that type of product placement might help.
I don’t think the ipad mini will be a problem since MS are already revamping their phones, also if the Office program is a full fat version that will be a USP- as long as it will talk to other Office versions.I don’t think the ipad mini will be a problem since MS are already revamping their phones, also if the Office program is a full fat version that will be a USP- as long as it will talk to other Office versions.
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16 October 2012 6:35PM16 October 2012 6:35PM
I personally think the keyboard will be the key of success to this machine. If the keyboard is good enough, a lot of people will be buying this as replacement for the ultraportable or notebook on-the-go. To me iPad and Android tablets this far are only 'gadgets', not really a personal computer, more a portable browser, e-reader and, a gadget. Not a productivity machine. Something to enjoy content, not to create content.I personally think the keyboard will be the key of success to this machine. If the keyboard is good enough, a lot of people will be buying this as replacement for the ultraportable or notebook on-the-go. To me iPad and Android tablets this far are only 'gadgets', not really a personal computer, more a portable browser, e-reader and, a gadget. Not a productivity machine. Something to enjoy content, not to create content.
Thus, if the Office works well, not a surprise if the sales is good.Thus, if the Office works well, not a surprise if the sales is good.
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16 October 2012 6:36PM16 October 2012 6:36PM
This comment was removed by a moderator because it didn't abide by our community standards. Replies may also be deleted. For more detail see our FAQs.This comment was removed by a moderator because it didn't abide by our community standards. Replies may also be deleted. For more detail see our FAQs.
16 October 2012 6:37PM16 October 2012 6:37PM
This comment was removed by a moderator because it didn't abide by our community standards. Replies may also be deleted. For more detail see our FAQs.This comment was removed by a moderator because it didn't abide by our community standards. Replies may also be deleted. For more detail see our FAQs.
16 October 2012 6:38PM16 October 2012 6:38PM
I had high hopes for this but pricing themselves directly against the iPad is suicide.I had high hopes for this but pricing themselves directly against the iPad is suicide.
Oh well, fingers crossed 3rd parties will come up with something more sensible.Oh well, fingers crossed 3rd parties will come up with something more sensible.
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16 October 2012 6:39PM16 October 2012 6:39PM
As mentioned earlier I was holding out to see how much these went for, but I'll go for the 32GB Nexus out soon. As for tablets being more like toys - if you need a laptop, buy a laptop.As mentioned earlier I was holding out to see how much these went for, but I'll go for the 32GB Nexus out soon. As for tablets being more like toys - if you need a laptop, buy a laptop.
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16 October 2012 6:41PM16 October 2012 6:41PM
What's betting the price will drop before long. Then people will be getting a 'bargain'!What's betting the price will drop before long. Then people will be getting a 'bargain'!
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16 October 2012 6:41PM16 October 2012 6:41PM
I have to confess Balmer's recent "devices and services" speech really changed my perception of Microsoft. I thought they were innovators, not imitators.I have to confess Balmer's recent "devices and services" speech really changed my perception of Microsoft. I thought they were innovators, not imitators.
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16 October 2012 6:42PM16 October 2012 6:42PM
Right. Why didnt they just make the keyboard foldable so it wouldn't need that silly looking stand?Right. Why didnt they just make the keyboard foldable so it wouldn't need that silly looking stand?
Granted that would make it a laptop but still...Granted that would make it a laptop but still...
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16 October 2012 6:43PM16 October 2012 6:43PM
This comment was removed by a moderator because it didn't abide by our community standards. Replies may also be deleted. For more detail see our FAQs.This comment was removed by a moderator because it didn't abide by our community standards. Replies may also be deleted. For more detail see our FAQs.
16 October 2012 6:46PM16 October 2012 6:46PM
People are making the mistake of looking at this as being identical to the iPad. There's a fundamental conceptual difference. This has the ecosystem of a full laptop / desktop due to the Windows 8 architecture. So can do spreadsheets and Microsoft Word on it.People are making the mistake of looking at this as being identical to the iPad. There's a fundamental conceptual difference. This has the ecosystem of a full laptop / desktop due to the Windows 8 architecture. So can do spreadsheets and Microsoft Word on it.
http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2012/10/as-surface-goes-on-sale-today-microsoft-seeks-to-reinvent-tablet/http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2012/10/as-surface-goes-on-sale-today-microsoft-seeks-to-reinvent-tablet/
This article explains it very well.This article explains it very well.
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16 October 2012 6:48PM16 October 2012 6:48PM
Windows 8 looks SO much better than the Apple operating system which looked dated 3 years ago.Windows 8 looks SO much better than the Apple operating system which looked dated 3 years ago.
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16 October 2012 6:49PM16 October 2012 6:49PM
http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2012/10/as-surface-goes-on-sale-today-microsoft-seeks-to-reinvent-tablet/http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2012/10/as-surface-goes-on-sale-today-microsoft-seeks-to-reinvent-tablet/
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16 October 2012 6:54PM16 October 2012 6:54PM
Can we play spot the astroturfer now Mum. Pleeese....Can we play spot the astroturfer now Mum. Pleeese....
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16 October 2012 6:56PM16 October 2012 6:56PM
100 quid for a key board. Get me two!100 quid for a key board. Get me two!
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16 October 2012 6:57PM16 October 2012 6:57PM
The design And look of this is hideous. Keyboard, chunky back stand thing, you'd be better off with a notebook or small laptop. Fail, in fact epic fail.The design And look of this is hideous. Keyboard, chunky back stand thing, you'd be better off with a notebook or small laptop. Fail, in fact epic fail.
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16 October 2012 6:57PM16 October 2012 6:57PM
So, why exactly, would I opt to purchase something with a completely unproven track record, an unknown quantity of applications with such a high end price?So, why exactly, would I opt to purchase something with a completely unproven track record, an unknown quantity of applications with such a high end price?
Simple. I wouldn't.Simple. I wouldn't.
Microsoft has missed the price point sweet spot with this device.Microsoft has missed the price point sweet spot with this device.
Those who want to opt for windows 8 based tablets will no doubt see what else comes to the table.Those who want to opt for windows 8 based tablets will no doubt see what else comes to the table.
In the interim, we have the iPad as the proven optimum high end device which nobody has managed to compete with to date.In the interim, we have the iPad as the proven optimum high end device which nobody has managed to compete with to date.
Then we have the iPad mini, the nexus 7, the Amazon Fire and the Nook at lower price points.Then we have the iPad mini, the nexus 7, the Amazon Fire and the Nook at lower price points.
There's no shortage of choice in the tablet market.There's no shortage of choice in the tablet market.
I highly doubt the surface will shift in significant numbers this Xmas.I highly doubt the surface will shift in significant numbers this Xmas.
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16 October 2012 7:00PM16 October 2012 7:00PM
Hmmm, just a bit too on the pricey side, I think. I would have gone for one if it had been a bit cheaper. Think this will backfire on MS in the long run....Hmmm, just a bit too on the pricey side, I think. I would have gone for one if it had been a bit cheaper. Think this will backfire on MS in the long run....
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16 October 2012 7:03PM16 October 2012 7:03PM
every day the Grauniad are pushing Micro$oft products. Micro$oft this, Micro$oft that. Isn't it about time Apple got a look in?every day the Grauniad are pushing Micro$oft products. Micro$oft this, Micro$oft that. Isn't it about time Apple got a look in?
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16 October 2012 7:04PM16 October 2012 7:04PM
Another device that isnt sold in The Netherlands? Are our Euros not good enough?Another device that isnt sold in The Netherlands? Are our Euros not good enough?
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16 October 2012 7:05PM16 October 2012 7:05PM
The pricing still comes to it in my mind. I'll be interested, sure, but you can still buy a decent laptop for way less.The pricing still comes to it in my mind. I'll be interested, sure, but you can still buy a decent laptop for way less.
Time will tell, I could well be being naive about all this. I wouldn't really consider looking into a new PC of any type until my laptop dies.Time will tell, I could well be being naive about all this. I wouldn't really consider looking into a new PC of any type until my laptop dies.
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16 October 2012 7:06PM16 October 2012 7:06PM
Surely you jest?Surely you jest?
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16 October 2012 7:09PM16 October 2012 7:09PM
I might consider getting one of these. As much as we love to hate Microsoft they do tend to make good stuff. Office springs to mind here.I might consider getting one of these. As much as we love to hate Microsoft they do tend to make good stuff. Office springs to mind here.
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16 October 2012 7:22PM16 October 2012 7:22PM
'Hideous'? Seriously? At worst it's innofensive.'Hideous'? Seriously? At worst it's innofensive.
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16 October 2012 7:26PM16 October 2012 7:26PM
Disastrous pricing.Disastrous pricing.
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16 October 2012 7:31PM16 October 2012 7:31PM
If I scoff any more at some of the comments about price I might just keel over and die. Seriously? You think its too expensive? As the article points out, its comparable to the iPad. Moreover, its cheaper than the iPad 1 when it first came out and that did remarkably well. Even more moreover, you're not comparing like for like - the iPad is little more than a content viewer and email device with a few games, but the Surface has been positioned as something far more capable.If I scoff any more at some of the comments about price I might just keel over and die. Seriously? You think its too expensive? As the article points out, its comparable to the iPad. Moreover, its cheaper than the iPad 1 when it first came out and that did remarkably well. Even more moreover, you're not comparing like for like - the iPad is little more than a content viewer and email device with a few games, but the Surface has been positioned as something far more capable.
Personally I'm glad that MS added a keyboard (though reserve judgement as to whether its any good), though 100 quid is a bit steep. That way I get the choice of what to do with it and the opportunity to use it as a proper work/study device. The iPad has never been much cop when it comes to productivity so the idea of a keyboard that can be hidden away nice and easily is a great one.Personally I'm glad that MS added a keyboard (though reserve judgement as to whether its any good), though 100 quid is a bit steep. That way I get the choice of what to do with it and the opportunity to use it as a proper work/study device. The iPad has never been much cop when it comes to productivity so the idea of a keyboard that can be hidden away nice and easily is a great one.
Well done MS for knocking out a good device at a reasonable price - I hope you see success with this so that the market can get back into some decent competition.Well done MS for knocking out a good device at a reasonable price - I hope you see success with this so that the market can get back into some decent competition.
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16 October 2012 7:33PM16 October 2012 7:33PM
That's the point; it's not a 'Laptop', it's a tablet, and all the more poorer for that I'd say. They're very flash, but they're not proper computers, at least as far as I am concernedThat's the point; it's not a 'Laptop', it's a tablet, and all the more poorer for that I'd say. They're very flash, but they're not proper computers, at least as far as I am concerned
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16 October 2012 7:40PM16 October 2012 7:40PM
DoADoA
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16 October 2012 7:41PM16 October 2012 7:41PM
Honestly, I think it's a game changer.Honestly, I think it's a game changer.
The general public will see a Windows PC (like their existing laptop) for £400 that's got a built in iPad....but the kids can use as a laptop.The general public will see a Windows PC (like their existing laptop) for £400 that's got a built in iPad....but the kids can use as a laptop.
Argue the limitations about the device by all means but the general public will see this in PC World and eat it up.Argue the limitations about the device by all means but the general public will see this in PC World and eat it up.
At £479 for a 32Gb with a keyboard cover, it's the same price as the entry level iPad without a keyboard except you can do things like plug USB sticks into this.At £479 for a 32Gb with a keyboard cover, it's the same price as the entry level iPad without a keyboard except you can do things like plug USB sticks into this.
Doesn't matter about stuff like screen resolutions etc. The resolution is better than "enough". Go on about retina stuff but no one actually cares. I've got an iPad 2 and an iPad 3 on my desk at work and we've had to label them so we know which is which when you're using them.Doesn't matter about stuff like screen resolutions etc. The resolution is better than "enough". Go on about retina stuff but no one actually cares. I've got an iPad 2 and an iPad 3 on my desk at work and we've had to label them so we know which is which when you're using them.
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16 October 2012 7:48PM16 October 2012 7:48PM
Sad, in a way.Sad, in a way.
MS are about to have a few days in the sun, with the techies enjoying (yet another) 'ipad killer'.MS are about to have a few days in the sun, with the techies enjoying (yet another) 'ipad killer'.
Then apple will announce the ipad mini, and it will be on the front pages, the tabloids, the blogosphere, and most importantly of all - the mind of the man on the street.Then apple will announce the ipad mini, and it will be on the front pages, the tabloids, the blogosphere, and most importantly of all - the mind of the man on the street.
What does little Timmy want for Christmas?What does little Timmy want for Christmas?
The majesty of Steve's vision reigns over all, once again.The majesty of Steve's vision reigns over all, once again.
He knew what we wanted, even before we did!He knew what we wanted, even before we did!
Expect to see heavily discounted 'surface' tablets in the New Year.Expect to see heavily discounted 'surface' tablets in the New Year.
From the spectral plane, He still brings us life enhancing tech....From the spectral plane, He still brings us life enhancing tech....
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16 October 2012 7:52PM16 October 2012 7:52PM
kingsize 16 October 2012 7:48PMkingsize 16 October 2012 7:48PM
He knew what we wanted, even before we did!He knew what we wanted, even before we did!
Yep, he knew what he wanted. 10" is the way. Ohhh, wait.....Yep, he knew what he wanted. 10" is the way. Ohhh, wait.....
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16 October 2012 7:52PM16 October 2012 7:52PM
I can't see how a 7in iPad fits into their range.I can't see how a 7in iPad fits into their range.
iPod Touch - 4in starts at £249 (UK) - 32Gb
iPad (the new one, not the 2 year old one) - starts at £429 (UK) - 16Gb		iPod Touch - 4in starts at £249 (UK) - 32Gb
iPad (the new one, not the 2 year old one) - starts at £429 (UK) - 16Gb
There's rumours of an 8Gb Mini for £249 but wouldn't you just get an iPod Touch with 4 times the storage at that? More likely, a 16Gb entry version will be £299 but that's twice the price of a Kindle Fire HD (nearly three times the price of a Kindle Fire) and it's over £100 more expensive than a Nexus 7 or a Samung Galaxy 7.There's rumours of an 8Gb Mini for £249 but wouldn't you just get an iPod Touch with 4 times the storage at that? More likely, a 16Gb entry version will be £299 but that's twice the price of a Kindle Fire HD (nearly three times the price of a Kindle Fire) and it's over £100 more expensive than a Nexus 7 or a Samung Galaxy 7.
To price within Apple's pricing structure, they'll have to be massively more expensive than the rest of the market. Surely, that'll just mean that you'll have the status quo of "if you want a small, cheap, well built tablet, get a Nexus 7 (or possibly a Kindle Fire HD, if you want a big, posh, well built tablet, pay another £100 and get a full sized iPad".To price within Apple's pricing structure, they'll have to be massively more expensive than the rest of the market. Surely, that'll just mean that you'll have the status quo of "if you want a small, cheap, well built tablet, get a Nexus 7 (or possibly a Kindle Fire HD, if you want a big, posh, well built tablet, pay another £100 and get a full sized iPad".
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16 October 2012 7:52PM16 October 2012 7:52PM
Your eyesight must be terrible if you cant tell the difference between an ipad 2 and 3 resolution...seriously.Your eyesight must be terrible if you cant tell the difference between an ipad 2 and 3 resolution...seriously.
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16 October 2012 8:11PM16 October 2012 8:11PM
I really like the look of this but £479 with keyboard is just on the wrong side of expensive I think. If they hit the £399 with keyboard then I'd have no problem at all.I really like the look of this but £479 with keyboard is just on the wrong side of expensive I think. If they hit the £399 with keyboard then I'd have no problem at all.
Might wait to see one in the flesh before deciding.Might wait to see one in the flesh before deciding.
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16 October 2012 8:11PM16 October 2012 8:11PM
Surface is great with its hybrid features for people who wants a tablet but with almost desktop-ilke functionality.
Its gonna sell tens of millions per year, thats assuming Cupertino is standing still.		Surface is great with its hybrid features for people who wants a tablet but with almost desktop-ilke functionality.
Its gonna sell tens of millions per year, thats assuming Cupertino is standing still.
With more than a hundred billion of cash (and counting) and benefit of economy-of-scales on many common components from its iPod-iPhone-iPad range, a pretty robust supply & manufacturing chain, its a fallacy that they'd do that. They'd prob have something up their sleeves now just waiting to be unleashed at the right time.With more than a hundred billion of cash (and counting) and benefit of economy-of-scales on many common components from its iPod-iPhone-iPad range, a pretty robust supply & manufacturing chain, its a fallacy that they'd do that. They'd prob have something up their sleeves now just waiting to be unleashed at the right time.
how about a new thinniest 11-inch in-cell touch-screen Macbook Air with a price tag starting USD799….with 128GB flash, retina display, usb, thunderbolt, etc. & a battery that last 10 hrs on wifi?how about a new thinniest 11-inch in-cell touch-screen Macbook Air with a price tag starting USD799….with 128GB flash, retina display, usb, thunderbolt, etc. & a battery that last 10 hrs on wifi?
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Prices, countries and dates for tablet announced and show that it will offer more storage than top-end iPadPrices, countries and dates for tablet announced and show that it will offer more storage than top-end iPad
Microsoft's Surface tablet will be priced from $499 for a 32GB version in the US – and £399 in the UK – and go on sale on 26 October in eight countries including the UK, the company said on Tuesday.Microsoft's Surface tablet will be priced from $499 for a 32GB version in the US – and £399 in the UK – and go on sale on 26 October in eight countries including the UK, the company said on Tuesday.
The announcement came just hours before Apple sent out teaser invitations for an event in San Francisco on 23 October, with the tagline "We've got a little more to show you" – widely expected to be a smaller "iPad mini" along with a revision to its tablet line to incorporate its new "Lightning" connector.The announcement came just hours before Apple sent out teaser invitations for an event in San Francisco on 23 October, with the tagline "We've got a little more to show you" – widely expected to be a smaller "iPad mini" along with a revision to its tablet line to incorporate its new "Lightning" connector.
Announcing the long-awaited details of its pricing, Microsoft said that the base model will cost $499 – which gives it the same price as a base-level iPad 3, though that only has 16GB of storage – while a version with an integral keyboard cover will cost $599. A 64GB version with a bundled keyboard cover will cost $699.Announcing the long-awaited details of its pricing, Microsoft said that the base model will cost $499 – which gives it the same price as a base-level iPad 3, though that only has 16GB of storage – while a version with an integral keyboard cover will cost $599. A 64GB version with a bundled keyboard cover will cost $699.
In the UK, the starting 32GB model will cost £399, the same as the base iPad 3, and the cover with integrated keyboard will cost an additional £100 if bought separately.In the UK, the starting 32GB model will cost £399, the same as the base iPad 3, and the cover with integrated keyboard will cost an additional £100 if bought separately.
The prices are thus £399 for a 32GB model with no cover, £479 for the 32GB model with cover, and £559 for the 64GB model with cover.The prices are thus £399 for a 32GB model with no cover, £479 for the 32GB model with cover, and £559 for the 64GB model with cover.
The Surface will go on sale in the US and Canada in Microsoft stores, and will be available for online orders in the UK, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Australia and China.The Surface will go on sale in the US and Canada in Microsoft stores, and will be available for online orders in the UK, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Australia and China.
Unlike Apple with the existing iPad line, Microsoft is not offering a 3G-capable version. For its size, the Surface's 1366x768 screen has a lower resolution than that of the iPad 3, although it is comparable with 2011's iPad 2, which has a 1024x768 resolution, and is priced from £329 for a 16GB model.Unlike Apple with the existing iPad line, Microsoft is not offering a 3G-capable version. For its size, the Surface's 1366x768 screen has a lower resolution than that of the iPad 3, although it is comparable with 2011's iPad 2, which has a 1024x768 resolution, and is priced from £329 for a 16GB model.
The Surface is based on ARM chips, using the same British chip architecture as in almost every mobile phone, and runs a new touch-based version of Windows written for ARM called Windows RT. Existing Windows apps will not run on it.The Surface is based on ARM chips, using the same British chip architecture as in almost every mobile phone, and runs a new touch-based version of Windows written for ARM called Windows RT. Existing Windows apps will not run on it.
However, owners will be able to download pre-approved apps from an online Windows Store – like Apple's App Store for the iPad – which will run on the Surface. The tablet will also come with a copy of Microsoft's Office suite specially written to run on the RT platform.However, owners will be able to download pre-approved apps from an online Windows Store – like Apple's App Store for the iPad – which will run on the Surface. The tablet will also come with a copy of Microsoft's Office suite specially written to run on the RT platform.
The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday that Microsoft has ordered production of between 3m and 5m of the devices this quarter, comparable with the total production last year of Amazon's Kindle Fire. Amazon finally stopped selling those at the end of summer.The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday that Microsoft has ordered production of between 3m and 5m of the devices this quarter, comparable with the total production last year of Amazon's Kindle Fire. Amazon finally stopped selling those at the end of summer.
It's not clear whether Microsoft intends to keep producing the Surface tablet, or whether it aims to kickstart a new segment of the tablet market by offering its own product at a keen price. By challenging Apple's iPad – which has so far been the majority seller in the tablet market – it may be trying to build a bridgehead for tablets against Apple.It's not clear whether Microsoft intends to keep producing the Surface tablet, or whether it aims to kickstart a new segment of the tablet market by offering its own product at a keen price. By challenging Apple's iPad – which has so far been the majority seller in the tablet market – it may be trying to build a bridgehead for tablets against Apple.
But the introduction of the iPad mini – echoing Apple's move in the digital music player market in January 2004, when it introduced the iPod mini and grabbed a significant chunk of that market – could leave Microsoft stuck competing at the high end.But the introduction of the iPad mini – echoing Apple's move in the digital music player market in January 2004, when it introduced the iPod mini and grabbed a significant chunk of that market – could leave Microsoft stuck competing at the high end.