Microsoft Surface to Enter Tablet Wars

by Holly Shoemaker

Microsoft unveiled its first Window 8 tablet, Surface, today at a last-minute event held in Los Angeles, Calif.

New Territory for Microsoft

This is the company’s first attempt at making its own tablet. The company said it needed its own hardware to complement its Windows 8 software.

The tablet features the following:

• A 10.6-inch HD widescreen display with an ultra-wide viewing angle and self-adjusting screen
• USB and micro SD card slots
• A built-in keyboard with a trackpad
• An integrated kickstand

Will Surface Compete?

To me, Microsoft is associated with business. In that sense, I could see the tablet appealing more to businesses – as a way to further integrate IT operations, especially among employees that travel. At the same time, to compete in tablet wars, Surface will have to appeal to consumers. Microsoft has branded its new tablet keeping in line with Windows 8 and the company even promotes entertainment and apps. Consumers and developers may see what Microsoft will offer by way of apps in its Windows Store, although that site still appears lean.

Does B & N Fit into the Picture?

Of course the lingering question for most is how Surface will compete with the iPad. However, I am curious to know more about what Microsoft plans to do with Barnes & Noble. Many have speculated that Windows 8 will become the default platform for future Nook tablets. If that becomes the case, Microsoft may be positioning itself to see how it may compete in the higher-end and lower-end tablet markets. At this time, Microsoft has not announced pricing or a release date for the Surface.