microsoft surface | KitGuru https://www.kitguru.net KitGuru.net - Tech News | Hardware News | Hardware Reviews | IOS | Mobile | Gaming | Graphics Cards Tue, 15 Sep 2015 00:27:13 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://www.kitguru.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/cropped-KITGURU-Light-Background-SQUARE2-32x32.png microsoft surface | KitGuru https://www.kitguru.net 32 32 Microsoft to unveil its Windows 10 mobile devices in early October https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/laptops/anton-shilov/microsoft-to-unveil-its-windows-10-mobile-devices-in-early-october/ https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/laptops/anton-shilov/microsoft-to-unveil-its-windows-10-mobile-devices-in-early-october/#respond Mon, 14 Sep 2015 22:15:29 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=267739 Microsoft Corp. on Monday sent invitations to an event, where it plans to introduce its mobile devices running Windows 10 operating system. The list of gadgets is expected to include the company’s new Surface tablet, Lumia smartphones and a fitness tracker. “We're eager to share some exciting news about Windows 10 devices,” a Microsoft spokeswoman …

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Microsoft Corp. on Monday sent invitations to an event, where it plans to introduce its mobile devices running Windows 10 operating system. The list of gadgets is expected to include the company’s new Surface tablet, Lumia smartphones and a fitness tracker.

“We're eager to share some exciting news about Windows 10 devices,” a Microsoft spokeswoman told Reuters news-agency.

The software giant is expected to unveil its highly-anticipated Surface Pro 4 tablet, new Lumia smartphones as well as Band 2 wearable fitness tracker at its event on the 6th of October.

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Microsoft released its Windows 10 operating system, which is designed for different kinds of computers, in late July. At present multiple companies offer notebooks, 2-in-1 hybrids and desktops based on the OS. The new devices from Microsoft will be the first mobile and ultra-mobile products to run Windows 10.

Earlier this year Satya Nadella, chief executive officer of Microsoft, said that the company will cease to offer wide range of smartphones. It is likely that the new family of Windows 10-based Lumia handsets will consist of only two or three models.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: The new devices running Windows 10 will show Microsoft’s vision for hardware going forward. While the company intends to reduce the number of Lumia devices, it is also expected to introduce a larger version of Surface Pro tablets for those, who need a bigger screen.

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Surface Pro 4: Intel ‘Skylake’, 1TB SSD, 16GB RAM, USB type-C https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/laptops/anton-shilov/microsoft-surface-pro-4-intel-skylake-up-to-1tb-ssd-16gb-ram-usb-type-c/ https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/laptops/anton-shilov/microsoft-surface-pro-4-intel-skylake-up-to-1tb-ssd-16gb-ram-usb-type-c/#comments Sat, 22 Aug 2015 10:41:42 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=264565 Microsoft Corp. is reportedly gearing up to release its highly-anticipated Surface Pro 4 business tablet next month. The novelty will be based on leading-edge hardware and will naturally use Windows 10 operating system. Moreover, according to a media leak, there will be two versions of the fourth-generation business slate from Microsoft: one with 12” display …

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Microsoft Corp. is reportedly gearing up to release its highly-anticipated Surface Pro 4 business tablet next month. The novelty will be based on leading-edge hardware and will naturally use Windows 10 operating system. Moreover, according to a media leak, there will be two versions of the fourth-generation business slate from Microsoft: one with 12” display and another with 14” screen.

The next-generation Microsoft Surface Pro is expected to be based on Intel Core i-series “Skylake-U” system-on-chip with up to 15W thermal design power and tangibly improved integrated graphics processor. The system will feature new-generation 128GB, 256GB, 512GB or 1TB solid-state storage devices and up to 16GB of dual-channel LPDDR3 memory, reports Jdgod web-site. The new hardware platform will significantly increase performance of the Surface Pro 4 compared to its predecessor, especially in graphics-intensive workloads.

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The next-generation Surface Pro from Microsoft will feature USB 3.1 type-C receptacle and while the details about its implementation are unknown, it is highly likely that the software giant will dump all other ports in favour of the new one. The USB 3.1 type-C port, if implemented correctly, can substitute multiple inputs and outputs, including display, power and USB.

Just like the ancestor, the next-gen Surface Pro will feature a rich set of sensors, including, but not limited to, ambient light sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope and magnetometer. Expect the tablet to integrate 802.11ac/802.11 a/b/g/n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, TPM (trusted platform module for enterprise-class encryption), high-definition front- and rear-facing cameras, built-in front- and rear-facing microphones, stereo speakers, etc.

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Microsoft will continue to position its Surface Pro 4 as a laptop replacement tablet, which is why it will not use Intel Core M, but will continue to utilize higher-performing Core i7/i5/i3 system-on-chips. Moreover, in addition to 12” models, the company is reportedly gearing up to offer a 14” version, which could be very useful for creative professionals. Since 12” Surface Pro 3 already features retina-class 2160*1440 resolution, the 14” Surface Pro could get something even higher.

According to unofficial information, Microsoft also plans to improve battery life of its professional slate, which is why the new tablet features a larger battery. Unfortunately, exact capacity of the accumulator is unknown.

The world’s largest software developer is expected to formally introduce its next-generation Surface Pro 4 in September with initial availability in the U.S. and Canada. Pricing is unknown, but do not expect it to get lower than $799.

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KitGuru Says: A higher-performing and more energy-efficient microprocessor, a better operating system, USB type-C (actually, it would be nice to see Intel’s “Alpine Ridge” controller that also supports Thunderbolt 3), longer battery life and other improvements will make Microsoft’s Surface Pro 4 an ideal laptop replacement tablet. Thanks to the cooler CPU, it is logical to expect that the next-generation Surface Pro 4 will also be thinner and lighter than its predecessor. Unfortunately, there is still no word whether Microsoft plans to offer Surface Pro 4 with built-in 3G/4G/LTE support, a feature that is badly needed by road warriors.

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Microsoft confirms cancellation of Lumia 2520 tablet https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/operating-systems/anton-shilov/microsoft-confirms-cancellation-of-lumia-2520-tablet/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/operating-systems/anton-shilov/microsoft-confirms-cancellation-of-lumia-2520-tablet/#comments Tue, 03 Feb 2015 05:55:49 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=233606 Microsoft Corp. has confirmed that its Nokia Lumia 2520 media tablet is no longer in production. Essentially, it means that there are no more devices powered by the company’s Windows RT operating system that are manufactured in high-volume quantities. Last week Microsoft halted production of its own Surface 2 slate featuring Windows RT operating system. …

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Microsoft Corp. has confirmed that its Nokia Lumia 2520 media tablet is no longer in production. Essentially, it means that there are no more devices powered by the company’s Windows RT operating system that are manufactured in high-volume quantities.

Last week Microsoft halted production of its own Surface 2 slate featuring Windows RT operating system. This week the company revealed to PCMWeb that it had also stopped production of the Nokia Lumia 2520 media tablet. The Surface 2 and the Lumia 2520 were the last Windows RT-based tablets that remained on the market.

Microsoft Windows RT operating system has failed to gain popularity among end-users and hardware makers because it cannot run traditional applications designed for x86 microprocessors. As a result, the ARM-powered tablets from Microsoft and Nokia have also failed on the market.

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At present both Surface 2 and Lumia 2520 media tablet are sold in select stores in various countries. However, since they are no longer in production, soon the stock will be depleted and the devices will cease to be available completely.

Microsoft’s next-generation Windows 10 operating system will support both x86 and ARM processors. As a result, it is possible that the company will introduce new ARM-based slates in the future.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Keeping in mind tremendously low popularity of Windows RT-based gadgets, the Lumia 2520 will hardly be missed…

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Microsoft ceases production of its Windows RT-based Surface tablets https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/operating-systems/anton-shilov/microsoft-ceases-production-of-its-windows-rt-based-tablets/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/operating-systems/anton-shilov/microsoft-ceases-production-of-its-windows-rt-based-tablets/#respond Wed, 28 Jan 2015 04:39:50 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=232847 Microsoft Corp. has announced that it had ceased production of its Surface 2 media tablet. The Surface 2 is generally one of the two devices based on Microsoft Windows RT operating system that is available commercially. This week Microsoft sold out the remaining stock of the Surface 2 products and will not produce any more …

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Microsoft Corp. has announced that it had ceased production of its Surface 2 media tablet. The Surface 2 is generally one of the two devices based on Microsoft Windows RT operating system that is available commercially. This week Microsoft sold out the remaining stock of the Surface 2 products and will not produce any more of such devices.

Both Microsoft Windows RT and Microsoft Surface tablets were failures for the software giant. Customers and hardware makers were reluctant to use the platform because it was not compatible with legacy programs (due to the fact that Win RT relied on ARM processors, not on x86), whereas software developers were not quick enough with modern products that were compatible with Windows RT. Hardware makers did not widely support the OS, even Microsoft’s Nokia division did not promote its Lumia 2520 tablet last year. Although it is unknown whether the Lumia 2520 is still in production, it is obvious that its days are counted.

While Microsoft Surface 2 and Nokia Lumia 2520 are still available at BestBuy and Verizon in the U.S., Microsoft will no longer produce additional devices, reports PCWorld web-site. Microsoft will continue to support existing Surface RT customers with updates and patches, but, as reported, it will not update its Surface and Surface 2 tablets with Windows 10 operating system.

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Even though it is obvious that Windows RT is dead, Microsoft’s next OS – Windows 10 – will also support ARM architecture and therefore hardware makers will be able to build consumer devices featuring system-on-chips from companies like Nvidia, Qualcomm and others.

“ARM devices will continue to be a crucial part of the range of devices Windows 10 supports, with an optimized experience for ARM-based phones, phablets and small tablets up to 8-inches,” said a spokesman for Microsoft. “Windows 10 is a single OS that spans multiple device form-factors, including tablets. We believe users will be delighted with how the OS will optimize based on the device they are on, whether that is a phone, tablet, PC or beyond.”

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Microsoft is currently reconsidering its hardware strategy. Satya Nadella does not seem to be a big fan of Microsoft-branded hardware, which is why it is unlikely that going forward the software giant will offer its customers anything except top-of-the-range halo products.

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Microsoft Surface will not be updated to Windows 10 https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/operating-systems/anton-shilov/microsoft-surface-rt-wont-get-windows-10-only-some-of-its-functionality/ https://www.kitguru.net/gaming/operating-systems/anton-shilov/microsoft-surface-rt-wont-get-windows-10-only-some-of-its-functionality/#comments Fri, 23 Jan 2015 04:05:27 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=232097 Microsoft Corp.’s troubled Surface RT media tablets will not be updated with Windows 10 operating system, even though the new OS is compatible with ARM-based system-on-chips. While devices running Windows RT will get some of functionality of Windows 10, they will never get all of the advantage of the new platform. Microsoft unveiled Surface RT …

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Microsoft Corp.’s troubled Surface RT media tablets will not be updated with Windows 10 operating system, even though the new OS is compatible with ARM-based system-on-chips. While devices running Windows RT will get some of functionality of Windows 10, they will never get all of the advantage of the new platform.

Microsoft unveiled Surface RT media tablets as well as Windows RT operating system in late 2012 along with massively re-designed Windows 8 OS. None of Windows RT-based devices, including the company’s own Surface RT, has ever become popular and the vast majority of hardware manufacturers simply ignored the platform. Windows RT was Microsoft’s first “big” Windows that was developed for ARM system-on-chips, therefore it was not compatible with traditional Windows software (designed for x86 microprocessors). In the future Microsoft plans to unify all of its operating systems for PCs, tablets and smartphones, which is why Windows RT is no longer needed.

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While Microsoft will continue to offer its Surface Pro slates for professionals, it looks like the company plans to abandon its ARM-based media tablets. While Windows 7- and 8-based PCs, select tablets and Windows Phone 8-powered smartphones will be upgraded to Windows 10 operating system for free, Windows RT-powered devices will only get an update of their functionality, but will not get the new OS, reports Cnet News.

“Surface Pro 3 (and the entire Surface Pro lineup) will update to Windows 10,” a statement by Microsoft reads. “We are working on an update for [the Windows RT version of] Surface, which will have some of the functionality of Windows 10. More information to come.”

Microsoft has to officially confirm the phasing out of Windows RT and Surface RT tablets, but given that Microsoft has not really updated the lineup of slates for over a year and Windows 10 will support ARM processors, which are traditionally used for mobile devices, there is no need in Windows RT going forward.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: It is not completely clear why Microsoft decided not to upgrade Windows RT-powered devices to Windows 10. If ARM hardware is supported by Windows 10, then it should be no problems to install Windows 10 on Surface RT, Nokia Lumia 2520 and on some other Windows RT-based tablets…

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Microsoft eyes 13”, 14” Surface Pro tablets https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/laptops/anton-shilov/microsoft-eyes-13-14-surface-pro-tablets/ https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/laptops/anton-shilov/microsoft-eyes-13-14-surface-pro-tablets/#comments Wed, 05 Nov 2014 02:11:50 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=220315 Sales of Microsoft Corp.’s Surface Pro 3 tablets in the Q3 2014 were significantly higher than sales of any other slate from the software giant; in order to strengthen its success, the company reportedly considering plans to release Surface Pro tablets with larger displays. At present Microsoft offers a variety of Surface Pro 3 tablets with …

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Sales of Microsoft Corp.’s Surface Pro 3 tablets in the Q3 2014 were significantly higher than sales of any other slate from the software giant; in order to strengthen its success, the company reportedly considering plans to release Surface Pro tablets with larger displays.

At present Microsoft offers a variety of Surface Pro 3 tablets with 12” screens, which is optimal for a wide range of customers. However, Microsoft is mulling 13” and even 14” versions of Surface Pro for those, who want to replace their high-performance notebooks with tablets, reports DigiTimes. The plan is at its early stage, and it still remains uncertain if Microsoft proceeds with it.

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Driven by strong sales of Surface Pro 3, Microsoft’s tablets revenue in Q1 FY2015 (ended on the 30th of September, 2014) increased 127 per-cent year-over-year to $908 million. According to Microsoft, unit sales of the Surface Pro 3 during the quarter were pacing at twice the rate of what it saw with the Surface Pro 2.

Keeping in mind that Microsoft positions Surface Pro 3 as productivity solutions as well as notebook replacements, it makes a lot of sense to offer versions with enlarged screens. On the other hand, people who need large displays also need proper ways to input information, which means keyboards. As a result, instead of buying a tablet with a keyboard they can simply buy a notebook.

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Microsoft did not comment on the news-story.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Large tablets may make a lot of sense on various markets where input is either not crucial or can be simplified. However, large displays also mean increased weight, which greatly limits mobility of such devices. As a result, Microsoft will need to develop 13” or 14” slates from scratch, not just introduce enlarged flavours of the Surface Pro 3.

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Microsoft to dump ARM-based Surface media tablets – report https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/laptops/anton-shilov/microsoft-to-dump-arm-based-surface-media-tablets-report/ https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/laptops/anton-shilov/microsoft-to-dump-arm-based-surface-media-tablets-report/#respond Fri, 10 Oct 2014 22:58:13 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=216114 While Microsoft Corp. will continue to offer its Surface Pro line of tablets designed for creative professionals and corporate users, the company is currently reconsidering the future of its Surface media tablets, at least, in their current form. According to a report, Microsoft may dump ARM-based Surface tablets and offer only x86-based solutions. Sales of all …

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While Microsoft Corp. will continue to offer its Surface Pro line of tablets designed for creative professionals and corporate users, the company is currently reconsidering the future of its Surface media tablets, at least, in their current form. According to a report, Microsoft may dump ARM-based Surface tablets and offer only x86-based solutions.

Sales of all Surface-branded slates have been pretty weak for multiple reasons. While the latest Surface Pro 3 seems to be a decent notebook replacement solution and may become a fairly successful product eventually, the consumer Surface tablets are not popular at all. Moreover, they barely have chances to become widespread because of the Windows RT operating system and their reliance on ARM system-on-chips. Since Windows RT/ARM-powered tablets are incompatible with traditional Windows applications, many consumers just do not see any value in such products. All PC makers who have ever released Windows RT-based tablets shelved them several months after launch.

ZDNet’s Mary Jo Foley, which has a good track record with trustworthy news-stories about Microsoft, reports that Microsoft's Surface strategy, going forward, will be to focus on Intel and to cease production of any future ARM-based tablets. Essentially, it means that Microsoft wants to dump ARM-based Surfaces and, perhaps, offer x86-powered (read: Intel Atom-powered) slates for consumers instead.

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Microsoft has neither confirmed nor denied plans to shelve ARM-based Surface line of products, but said that Windows will continue to support ARM application processors.

“Windows on ARM-based processors continues to be an important element of our strategy for phones and tablets, and we’ll have more to share on the Windows experience for mobile devices at a later date,” a Microsoft spokesperson reportedly said.

While with Windows 10 operating system Microsoft will remove the ill-fated RT moniker and all Windows will become just “Windows 10”, it remains to be seen whether ARM-based tablets or notebooks will be able to run traditional programs designed for x86. If they cannot, then they hardly become popular among consumers, which is why it will hardly make sense for Microsoft to offer ARM-based Surface products.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Microsoft clearly needs to support ARM SoCs since they power the vast majority of smartphones. When it comes to tablets, ARM does not make that much sense nowadays, especially if it brings compatibility issues.

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Microsoft reaffirms commitment to Surface Pro, preps next-gen models https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/laptops/anton-shilov/microsoft-reaffirms-commitment-to-surface-pro-preps-next-gen-models/ https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/laptops/anton-shilov/microsoft-reaffirms-commitment-to-surface-pro-preps-next-gen-models/#respond Thu, 09 Oct 2014 22:39:03 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=215978 Microsoft Corp. on Tuesday reiterated its commitment to its Surface Pro business tablets and said that its next-generation solutions of the kind, which are in development today, will be compatible with existing peripherals. The claim was made in order to persuade IT managers and CIO to consider Surface Pro as a solid solution for years …

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Microsoft Corp. on Tuesday reiterated its commitment to its Surface Pro business tablets and said that its next-generation solutions of the kind, which are in development today, will be compatible with existing peripherals. The claim was made in order to persuade IT managers and CIO to consider Surface Pro as a solid solution for years to come. What Microsoft did not reveal is anything about the future of consumer version of Surface.

“We understand that for businesses to invest in Surface Pro 3, they need clarity on our commitment to hardware and accessories over time, so they can responsibly manage their investment choices,” said Brian Hall, general manager of Surface products at Microsoft.

Although the original Microsoft Surface tablets have never managed to become popular due to various reasons, the latest third-generation Surface Pro seems to be a thing done right. Surface Pro 3 serves as a full-powered business PC and a tablet, which makes it a rather unique solution for today as no other supplier ships anything like that. What is important is that while sales of the Surface Pro-series tablets/hybrids may be behind sales of Lenovo’s ThinkPads or HP’s EliteBooks, Microsoft will continue to evolve its solutions responsibly in order to maintain backwards compatibility and other valuable features.

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“We have kept our roadmap plans close to the vest, as we needed to properly land new Surface products in a competitive market,” said Mr. Hall. “Now that we have begun to establish our place in the market, we are pleased to share that the [three types of] Surface Pro 3 accessories are designed with our product roadmap in mind and will be compatible with the next generation of the “Pro” line of Surface”

In particular, the general manager of the Surface product line at Microsoft revealed that all Surface Pro 3 type covers, infrastructure accessories (e.g., power adapters, Ethernet adapters and other) as well as the Surface Pro 3 docking station will be compatible with next-gen Surface Pro solutions.

While it is clear that Microsoft is committed to its Surface Pro line going forward, the software giant has not released a word about its consumer-class Surface tablets. At present they are based on Windows RT and ARM system-on-chips (SoCs), therefore they are not compatible with traditional Windows software (designed for x86 microprocessors), which is why they are not popular on the market. Going forward Microsoft plans to unify all of its operating systems and the Windows RT will be essentially gone. It is completely unclear what happens to Microsoft’s ARM-based tablets by then, especially in the light of the fact that Intel now offers very power-efficient x86 SoCs…

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: The future of ARM-based Microsoft Surface tablets depends on compatibility with traditional software designed for Windows. While Microsoft Office and numerous “modern” apps compatible with both x86 and ARM may be enough for certain people, many consumers who buy Windows-based tablets want to run apps they are used to, which, in many cases, mean traditional programs for Windows.

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Microsoft cancels Surface Mini media tablet https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/tablet-pc/anton-shilov/microsoft-cancels-surface-mini-media-tablet/ https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/tablet-pc/anton-shilov/microsoft-cancels-surface-mini-media-tablet/#comments Mon, 30 Jun 2014 22:57:45 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=200901 Microsoft Corp. has reportedly called off its plans to introduce Surface Mini media tablet. The company decided not to enter the market of smaller slates because it is already very crowded. Nonetheless, the software giant may reconsider its plans regarding smaller tablets if market conditions change. Microsoft was expected to introduce the Surface Mini tablet …

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Microsoft Corp. has reportedly called off its plans to introduce Surface Mini media tablet. The company decided not to enter the market of smaller slates because it is already very crowded. Nonetheless, the software giant may reconsider its plans regarding smaller tablets if market conditions change.

Microsoft was expected to introduce the Surface Mini tablet back in May, but for some reason did not do it. The tablet was reportedly based on the Windows RT operating system and an ARM-powered system-on-chip, DigiTimes reports. Previously it was rumoured that Microsoft planned to use Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 or 600 system-on-chip for its Surface Mini.

Vostrostone (VSTN), a well-known brand that makes cases for media tablets and smartphones, started to take pre-orders on its protective cases for Microsoft Surface Mini tablets at Amazon back in May. The online store still sells the cases and calls the slate as the “Surface X”. Theoretically, this may mean that the smaller tablet from Microsoft is still in the roadmap.

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Compared to other slates with 7.5” – 8” displays, the Surface Mini's specifications have nothing in particular to boost its competitiveness and therefore Microsoft has decided to delay the tablet's introduction and may not even release it to at all, according to DigiTimes. Keeping in mind that Amazon and Apple plan to introduce new Kindle Fire and iPad mini tablets in the coming months, the idea to cancel the Surface Mini may be a good one.

Microsoft did not comment on the news-story.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: If the Surface Mini did not have a lot of advantages compared to rivals, it was logical for Microsoft to cancel it. Most probably the company is reworking the slate now and will release it along with the next-generation of tablets from Apple, Amazon, Samsung and other.

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First photo of Microsoft Surface Mini published by case maker https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/anton-shilov/first-photo-of-microsoft-surface-mini-published-by-case-maker/ https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/anton-shilov/first-photo-of-microsoft-surface-mini-published-by-case-maker/#respond Fri, 25 Apr 2014 12:13:06 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=189098 A smaller version of Microsoft Corp.’s Surface media tablet has been discussed ever since the launch of the original Surface back in 2012, but the software giant has never confirmed plans to release such a product. Nonetheless, in many cases rumours do materialise and the so-called Surface Mini tablet is about to enter the market. …

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A smaller version of Microsoft Corp.’s Surface media tablet has been discussed ever since the launch of the original Surface back in 2012, but the software giant has never confirmed plans to release such a product. Nonetheless, in many cases rumours do materialise and the so-called Surface Mini tablet is about to enter the market. A maker of cases has even published the first photo of the device.

microsoft_surface_mini_with_case_2

Vostrostone (VSTN), a well-known brand that makes cases for media tablets and smartphones, recently started to take pre-orders on its protective cases for Microsoft Surface Mini tablets at Amazon. One of the covers is just a smart cover made of leather, another is a leather case with a Bluetooth keyboard. The cases are pretty affordable: the simple one costs $10 without shipping and taxes, the one with the keyboard is priced at $33 without shipping and taxes. Both covers will be available starting from the 18th of May, which is likely to be the launch date of Microsoft Surface Mini.

microsoft_surface_mini_with_case

Specifications of the upcoming Surface Mini tablets are still not known. It is believed that the slate has 8” display, uses an ARMv7-compatible microprocessor and Windows RT operating system. Previously it was rumoured that Microsoft planned to use Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 or 600 system-on-chip for its Surface Mini.

As it is obvious from the photo, the Surface Mini will have a front cam, a sensor Windows key, microphone and so on.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: Microsoft Surface Mini is clearly a step in the right direction for the company. However, to make it a success, it must feature something, which is absent from current-gen Apple iPad mini, Amazon Kindle Fire HD/HDX and other popular slates. Otherwise, Microsoft’s Surface Mini will have only three to four months to sell before next-gen tablets from Amazon and Apple will hit the market.

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Surface Pro coming to UK in May, rest of world by end of June https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/tablet-pc/jon-martindale/surface-pro-coming-to-uk-in-may-rest-of-world-by-end-of-june/ https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/tablet-pc/jon-martindale/surface-pro-coming-to-uk-in-may-rest-of-world-by-end-of-june/#respond Wed, 24 Apr 2013 12:54:28 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=132970 Microsoft has released an update on the intended release date for its Surface Pro tablet, letting eager UK buyers know that it'll be here before the end of the May and by the close of June, there won't be many places in the world you can't buy one. According to the Surface blog, the team …

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Microsoft has released an update on the intended release date for its Surface Pro tablet, letting eager UK buyers know that it'll be here before the end of the May and by the close of June, there won't be many places in the world you can't buy one.

According to the Surface blog, the team behind the iPad tablet rival has been getting a lot of requests about when it would be launching across EU territories. To answer this, the team provided details on when and where the Surface would be available next.

surfacepro
The Surface Pro is currently available in China, Canada and the US.

Eastern European customers get the first look in, following the launch in China. This means that Malasia will get the next launch on 25th April. Following on from that, a lot of countries will get a look-in during May, with the following all having access by the close of the month: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

By the end of June, Korea, Russia, Singapore and Thailand will also be able to buy a Surface Pro if they want.

KitGuru Says: So guys are you excited for the launch here? Windows 8 didn't go down so well, but perhaps it'll fair better on a contemporary Microsoft tablet? 

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Microsoft aim to drive Surface tablet sales via retail https://www.kitguru.net/channel/carl/microsoft-aim-to-drive-surface-tablet-sales-via-retail/ https://www.kitguru.net/channel/carl/microsoft-aim-to-drive-surface-tablet-sales-via-retail/#respond Wed, 12 Dec 2012 08:43:49 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=118687 I am a very happy owner of the Surface tablet, although sales figures don't seem to be going quite as well as Microsoft would have wanted. In the efforts to drive more, they are expanding their US operation to include Staples and Best Buy. The company announced this move and has hinted that they may …

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I am a very happy owner of the Surface tablet, although sales figures don't seem to be going quite as well as Microsoft would have wanted. In the efforts to drive more, they are expanding their US operation to include Staples and Best Buy.

The company announced this move and has hinted that they may push it through retail outlets in the United Kingdom.

The current Surface tablet runs the RT version of Windows 8, a specially designed architecture for ARM processors. The retail chain has already said that Microsoft have halved the number of Surfaces that it ordered. Data browsing information from Chitika said that they have a tiny ‘share of the tablet browsing market in America.

That said, Microsoft have recently said they are increasing production for the Surface. Sales can be blamed on the fact that Microsoft are only offering the tablet through their own online stores in a handful of countries worldwide. Obviously ebay has seen a high volume of units available, often at cut price deals too compared to the official stores.

Microsoft have quietly indicated that UK audiences may see the Surface in retail chains locally “Surface will continue to be available for purchase at all Microsoft retail stores in the United States and Canada and online in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States. Based on the success of the Microsoft holiday stores, the company will extend all of these locations into the new year. These stores will transition into either permanent brick-and-mortar retail outlets or specialty store locations.”

Microsoft are planning on selling the ‘Pro' versions of the Surface in 2013, featuring Intel processors. Pricing looks to alienate a wide audience however, as prices will jump from $499 to $899. This version of the tablet will however run a much wider portfolio of applications.

Kitguru says: Will Microsoft be able to drive more sales? We hope this won't end up a flop for the company

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Microsoft riding on Surface, literally https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/blair-mcclelland/microsoft-riding-on-surface-literally/ https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/blair-mcclelland/microsoft-riding-on-surface-literally/#respond Thu, 18 Oct 2012 10:32:32 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=112188 With just over a week before the next generation of Windows is officially launched the marketing campaign is starting to get under way. No one can doubt the importance of the next few months for Microsoft with launches of Windows 8, RT and Phone 8 in place, so I guess you could say they have a …

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With just over a week before the next generation of Windows is officially launched the marketing campaign is starting to get under way. No one can doubt the importance of the next few months for Microsoft with launches of Windows 8, RT and Phone 8 in place, so I guess you could say they have a lot riding on these new product launches.

However, riding could also be taken as a literal term. Steven Sinofsky, head of Windows group, was seen riding a Surface RT tablet. This was undoubtedly a little stunt to prove the toughness of the 10.6 inch tablet's magenisum-alloy body and Gorilla Glass 2 display. Now it's only a matter of time before an entrepreneur launches the skateboard for Surface case.

KitGuru says: No Microsoft Surface tablets were harmed in the production of this article.

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Ballmer hints at Microsoft Surface pricing https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/blair-mcclelland/ballmer-hints-at-microsoft-surface-pricing/ https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/blair-mcclelland/ballmer-hints-at-microsoft-surface-pricing/#respond Wed, 19 Sep 2012 10:32:33 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=108942 In a recent interview, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer was questioned over the upcoming Surface tablet launch. The passionate CEO believes they have a “very competitive product from the features perspective.” Ballmer also went on to hint at possible Surface pricing; from “$300 to about $700 or $800,” is the “sweet spot” for pricing. If we …

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In a recent interview, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer was questioned over the upcoming Surface tablet launch. The passionate CEO believes they have a “very competitive product from the features perspective.”

Ballmer also went on to hint at possible Surface pricing; from “$300 to about $700 or $800,” is the “sweet spot” for pricing. If we were to assume that this is tentative pricing for the tablet series, then we might expect the lower-end Surface running Windows RT to start from $299 while the top-end Surface Pro running Windows 8 might cost up to $700 or $800.

Previous rumours had suggested a $199 asking price for Surface but unhappy partners may have caused Microsoft to back down if there was substance behind the rumour.

The Microsoft CEO also believes that Windows Phone 8 has great potential for success.

“We've got a big challenge in front of us. We're a very small player, but we have a different point of view in terms of user experience. We've got great cloud integration with the rest of the Microsoft world, which a lot of people participate in. So I think our point of view on user interface, the great work that our hardware vendors are doing and the integration with Windows should help ratchet us up.”

KitGuru says: The next few months will be important to Microsoft's future in the mobile space.

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Microsoft facing a partner revolt over Surface tablet https://www.kitguru.net/channel/yong-lei/microsoft-facing-a-partner-revolt-over-surface-tablet/ https://www.kitguru.net/channel/yong-lei/microsoft-facing-a-partner-revolt-over-surface-tablet/#comments Sun, 02 Sep 2012 12:34:16 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=106731 We spoke with industry insiders late last night in Taipei and it would appear that Microsoft are deep in negotiation with a handful of their leading partners. As we have reported before, Microsoft have irked many of their partners by announcing the release of their own Surface tablet, which will compete against other tablets in …

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We spoke with industry insiders late last night in Taipei and it would appear that Microsoft are deep in negotiation with a handful of their leading partners. As we have reported before, Microsoft have irked many of their partners by announcing the release of their own Surface tablet, which will compete against other tablets in the same sector.

Several of my contacts in Taipei confirmed that Hewlett Packard have stopped development of Windows RT tablet PC's and Dell are considering walking away from the platform. An Asus insider spoke with me a while ago and said they have also concerns. Acer CEO JT Wang said “Think twice, It will create a huge negative impact for the ecosystem and other brands may take a negative reaction. It is not something you are good at so please think twice.”

Toshiba have decided to stop development of their own Windows RT tablet, causing lost orders for Texas Instruments. Qualcomm may also now be seriously affected due to this shift from other partners. Sources I spoke with last night said that Nvidia are likely to still benefit from sales, but other chip production companies may be left hanging in the wind.

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer: ready to fight Apple in their own territory later this year.

Microsoft have tried hard to convince their partners that the Surface is being released to ‘strengthen' the market and help with the Windows RT adoption, but many are unhappy and willing to walk away completely.

It may be that Microsoft release the Surface at $199, but they are not confirming the price with anyone, including the partners.

I also heard that Hewlett Packard are ditching RT tablets to focus on Windows 8 models, leaving Qualcomm to work with Dell. Dell are now also wondering if the move is worth it, especially as they have reported dropping sales in the last fiscal report. They may be unwilling to take the risk in the current economic climate.

Samsung, Lenovo and Asus are planning to release Windows RT tablet computers, but after speaking with an insider close to ASUS, they are not willing to commit a lot of resources to the development, feeling that Android and Windows 8 products are the way ahead.

Kitguru says: Microsoft have successfully alienated themselves from many of their partners. Maybe it is a good thing however, as Microsoft may commit to releasing very cheap tablet computers to draw the consumer away from the iPad, offering low cost, capable alternatives.

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Microsoft hiring a ‘Surface team’. Partners miffed. https://www.kitguru.net/channel/slyvia/microsoft-hiring-a-surface-team-partners-miffed/ https://www.kitguru.net/channel/slyvia/microsoft-hiring-a-surface-team-partners-miffed/#respond Wed, 08 Aug 2012 07:27:37 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=103111 There is no doubt about it, Microsoft are playing hardball. They want to become a part of the thriving tablet mobile space, even if it means annoying the partners who will be building similar tablets running Windows 8. Tech Radar spotted a raft of job advertisements over at the Microsoft Careers site and the publication …

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There is no doubt about it, Microsoft are playing hardball. They want to become a part of the thriving tablet mobile space, even if it means annoying the partners who will be building similar tablets running Windows 8.

Tech Radar spotted a raft of job advertisements over at the Microsoft Careers site and the publication said that Microsoft are already planning a Surface 2 tablet. It would appear that Microsoft are hiring, to create a fully fledged team to take the project forward.

Many analysts felt that Microsoft would launch a single Surface tablet to drive the platform forward, even at the annoyance of partners such as Acer. If they are planning on creating a series of devices then the relationships could become even more strained.

JT Wang, CEO of Acer, spoke to the Financial Times. He told them to ‘Think twice' about the tablet and wasn't very pleased about Microsoft's plans to compete in the same hardware space.

Tech Radar add “the scope of the jobs Microsoft is recruiting for shows that this isn't just keeping Surface up to date with future processor improvements” and that the company appears to be “building up a full product design and development team to keep innovating (and keeping PC OEMs on their toes with some healthy competition).”

Microsoft are looking for positions ranging from “mechanical engineers to component specialists and materials experts to driver developers and audio engineers (plus manufacturing and packaging designers)”.

Microsoft are clearly keen to recreate the success they have had with the Xbox and Xbox 360. They were late to market in the console sector, and they still experienced fantastic success.

The Xbox 360 is actually the best selling console on the market. Can they oust Apple from the top spot however? Very few experts feel they will be able to make a dent in the market, never mind challenge the leader.

As they say, time will tell.

Kitguru says: Microsoft have big plans for the Surface tablet, there is no doubt about that.

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Microsoft report £314 million loss https://www.kitguru.net/channel/raymond-daily/microsoft-report-314-million-loss/ https://www.kitguru.net/channel/raymond-daily/microsoft-report-314-million-loss/#respond Fri, 20 Jul 2012 07:46:25 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=100738 Microsoft have officially reported their first quarterly loss in its history. As we reported a short while ago, they were forced to write off some of the value of their online advertising business. They had to write down the value of Aquantive by $6.2 billion, which failed to bring the profits expected by Microsoft. When …

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Microsoft have officially reported their first quarterly loss in its history. As we reported a short while ago, they were forced to write off some of the value of their online advertising business.

They had to write down the value of Aquantive by $6.2 billion, which failed to bring the profits expected by Microsoft. When this is factored in, they had to report a $492 million loss (£314 million), compared against a profit of $5.9 billion a year earlier.

Microsoft have never reported a loss since they joined the stock market in 1986. They took over Aquantive in 2007 but failed to mount a challenge against Google. They paid $6.3 billion for the company at the time.

Their operating system popularity declined, which is to be expected as current code has been on sale now for a long time. Windows 8 is due for release this October which should drive sales for the end of the year, even though many enthusiasts are expressing mixed feelings. They plan to go after Apple in the mobile tablet sector with the release of their ‘Surface' tablet, which will feature Windows 8. A double win for the company if it sells well.

Microsoft revenue is healthy, rising in the three months to June by 4% to $18.06 billion.

Kitguru says: They will assuredly bounce back, although the management will not be happy having to write off such a huge sum of money.

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Gates says Apple may have to follow Microsoft Surface https://www.kitguru.net/channel/colin-beatty/gates-says-apple-may-have-to-follow-microsoft-surface/ https://www.kitguru.net/channel/colin-beatty/gates-says-apple-may-have-to-follow-microsoft-surface/#respond Wed, 04 Jul 2012 08:11:31 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=98161 Ex Microsoft CEO Bill Gates is ‘fanatical' about the upcoming Microsoft Surface. he spoke to Charlie Rose last night on the Rose PBS show. He said that the world's best companies are built by fanatics and “when you're in your 20s and 30s being fanatical comes…well at least it came pretty naturally to me.” He …

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Ex Microsoft CEO Bill Gates is ‘fanatical' about the upcoming Microsoft Surface. he spoke to Charlie Rose last night on the Rose PBS show. He said that the world's best companies are built by fanatics and “when you're in your 20s and 30s being fanatical comes…well at least it came pretty naturally to me.” He also said he had the idea for tablets “way too early.”

In his 50's now, he still says he is fanatical, especially about the new Microsoft PC/Tablet device called ‘Surface'. He even said that Apple may have to follow Microsoft, not something you hear very often. He calls the Surface ‘exciting'.

Gates said that his goal with Microsoft had been to deliver the “magic of software to people both in their work and in their home.”

He added “I actually believe you can have the best of both worlds. You can have a rich ecosystem of manufacturers and you can have a few signature devices that show off, you know, wow, what's the difference between a tablet and a PC.”

Microsoft Surface. Multi Coloured and a complete contrast to the 'black and white' iPad tones

The Surface device is a subject he can talk about with passion. He said “You don't have to make a compromise. You can have everything you like about a tablet and everything you like about a PC all in one device. And so that should change the way people look at things.”

He was asked about the late Steve Jobs in regards to Apple's success with tablet computers. He said “He did some things better than I did.” Although he was keen to point out that the Surface is different. You can be ‘creative' in a way the iPad won't allow. A fusing of the tablet and PC sectors.

He said that Apple may need to create a Surface like device to be competitive. The Surface he said is a “seminal event”.

Kitguru says: Still no official release dates for the Surface device, but the hype continues to build. We wonder how sales will compare against the iPad.

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Can Microsoft get the Surface tablet price ‘right’? https://www.kitguru.net/channel/raymond-daily/can-microsoft-get-the-surface-tablet-price-right/ https://www.kitguru.net/channel/raymond-daily/can-microsoft-get-the-surface-tablet-price-right/#respond Fri, 22 Jun 2012 09:17:28 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=96452 Microsoft have set the cat among the pigeons this week by announcing their upcoming Surface tablet. They are keen to target Apple's iPad and in doing so, seem to have alienated some of their partners. These companies don't want to go head to head with the company who supply the operating system for their machines. …

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Microsoft have set the cat among the pigeons this week by announcing their upcoming Surface tablet. They are keen to target Apple's iPad and in doing so, seem to have alienated some of their partners. These companies don't want to go head to head with the company who supply the operating system for their machines. After all they have to pay Microsoft a license to use it, giving them a price penalty immediately.

Pricing of the new tablet computer has not been confirmed, but many publications and analysts are making their guesses.

There will be two versions. The Windows Surface RT version will be released for ARM powered devices. Windows Surface Pro will be made for higher powered Intel processors.

Microsoft said “Surface for Windows RT will release with the general availability of Windows 8, and the Windows 8 Pro model will be available about 90 days later. Both will be sold in the Microsoft Store locations in the U.S. and available through select online Microsoft Stores.

Suggested retail pricing will be announced closer to availability and is expected to be competitive with a comparable ARM tablet or Intel Ultrabook-class PC.”

If Microsoft can hit a £350/£450 price for the RT 32GB and 64GB models. and £700/£800 for the Pro 64GB and 128GB versions they might have a strong chance. This is factoring in the current prices of the Apple iPad. The Intel powered machines are always going to force a price premium.

Performance may not be an issue, but many have concerns that the battery life will be significantly worse than the Apple iPad. The pricing is going to be incredibly important for Microsoft, they only have to look at the failed attempts from Dell, HP and Research in Motion to dethrone Apple.

Kitguru says: Surface – will it surface at the right price?

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Microsoft Surface with Windows RT runs a Nvidia Tegra chipset https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/blair-mcclelland/microsoft-surface-with-windows-rt-runs-a-nvidia-tegra-chipset/ https://www.kitguru.net/lifestyle/mobile/blair-mcclelland/microsoft-surface-with-windows-rt-runs-a-nvidia-tegra-chipset/#respond Thu, 21 Jun 2012 10:30:38 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=96230 A few days ago Microsoft announced their Surface tablets, which on the outside look rather impressive but like all great men we consider the internals more important. The Windows RT Surface tablet (the one running on an ARM processor) will be powered by a Tegra processor from Nvidia. The processor in question has not been …

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A few days ago Microsoft announced their Surface tablets, which on the outside look rather impressive but like all great men we consider the internals more important. The Windows RT Surface tablet (the one running on an ARM processor) will be powered by a Tegra processor from Nvidia.

The processor in question has not been specified but it will likely be the Nvidia Tegra 3+ chipset. It has not been officially announced yet but our guess it will bring higher clock speeds and a die shrink over the current generation Tegra 3 processor.

What makes this news-worthy is that it goes against Microsoft's long running Snapdragon Qualcomm exclusivity in the Window Phone platform. Microsoft is the second company to do this in recent times; HTC ended their Qualcomm streak with the Nvidia Tegra 3 powered One X earlier this year.

KitGuru says: Either way, we can't wait to see what the user experience will be like on the ARM powered Surface tablet later this year.

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VIP believes Microsoft can win because of iPad weaknesses https://www.kitguru.net/channel/jules/vip-believes-microsoft-can-win-because-of-ipad-weaknesses/ https://www.kitguru.net/channel/jules/vip-believes-microsoft-can-win-because-of-ipad-weaknesses/#comments Wed, 20 Jun 2012 10:59:05 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=96110 There is a comic depiction doing the rounds on Facebook right now. It shows Bill Gates launching the tablet concept a decade ago and no one caring – with a shot of Jobs and the iPad next to it. VIP is one of the UK's biggest distributors and its sales director, Dave Stevinson, believes Microsoft …

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There is a comic depiction doing the rounds on Facebook right now. It shows Bill Gates launching the tablet concept a decade ago and no one caring – with a shot of Jobs and the iPad next to it. VIP is one of the UK's biggest distributors and its sales director, Dave Stevinson, believes Microsoft can win tablet business with their upcoming ‘Surface'. It's possible, but do KitGuru readers agree with his logic?

Comparing Apples and PCs is like comparing Apple juice and a Tropical Juice Mix. With the Apple juice, you know where you are – from the pip in a compost-rich soil, to the final pressing and presentation. Not everyone likes the taste, but everyone is sure what it is.

PCs are different. No two stores use the same fruits to make a Tropical Fruit drink and that offers up advantages and disadvantages. For example, you can appeal to a wider audience, but something can go wrong with your mix.

Enough fruit – on to Dave Stevinson and the VIP-view of the world.

He has come right out and said that not only do business customers struggle in integrate iPads with existing systems – they also have challenges getting software to work properly. It seems that VIP customers are not sure how best to work with Apple's operating system and – most curious – they are concerned about the virus risk of using iPads on a network.

To quote Dave, “Corporates struggle to seamlessly integrate ipads into their infrastructure, facing challenges of software compatibility, duplication, anti-virus and the Apple OS”.

Most users are probably more familiar with Windows office applications, but it seems that businesses are scared that Apple leaves a corporate open to abuse.

Here's how Dave put it, “Users love the form factor of tablets, enterprises need the security of Microsoft”.

After casting doubts on Apple's ability to work securely in a business environment, he's also concerned that Microsoft will struggle to sell tablets to end users.

His logic is straightforward, “Whether Microsoft will be able to capture the hearts of the casual user (the biggest demographic) with intuitive independent applications and games is still to be proven”.

Overall, once you get past Dave's highly cautious approach, he does come out in favour of a Microsoft win, “Users love the form factor of tablets, enterprises need the security of Microsoft  – so here we have what on paper looks like  a win win situation. My prediction is businesses will find the integration of the Intel based Microsoft Surface tablet  a far easier proposition than the roll out of several hundred iPads”.

Asked if he believes enough to buy one himself, Dave was unequivocal, “Without a shadow of doubt – I will have my name down for the Microsoft Surface and am rather excited about the future”

KitGuru says: Dave must be an England fan. We reckon it will come down to price, performance and ‘deals with telcos'. If Microsoft hits £299 and you can get a working Surface Tablet from T-Mobile for £15 a month – it's a winner.

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RIM, Dell and HP fail but can Microsoft Surface succeed? https://www.kitguru.net/channel/raymond-daily/rim-dell-and-hp-fail-but-can-microsoft-surface-succeed/ https://www.kitguru.net/channel/raymond-daily/rim-dell-and-hp-fail-but-can-microsoft-surface-succeed/#comments Wed, 20 Jun 2012 08:02:04 +0000 http://www.kitguru.net/?p=96095 With Microsoft’s worst kept secret now official we take a deeper look as to the “why”. Microsoft are the worlds leading operating system provider and their Windows platform powers over 1 billion PC’s throughout the world. So why would the leader of software development even want to step in to the world of tablet hardware? …

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With Microsoft’s worst kept secret now official we take a deeper look as to the “why”.

Microsoft are the worlds leading operating system provider and their Windows platform powers over 1 billion PC’s throughout the world. So why would the leader of software development even want to step in to the world of tablet hardware? And worse than that, they are going in to an area that is not only dominated by its biggest rival, but into an area where so many have failed before?

Dell, HP and RIM to name just a few have all proved than a name alone will not sell the product. Microsoft are no stranger to hardware as they have a range of peripheral products and the ever popular Xbox gaming console. But they have never before produced a finished PC for the mass market.

Microsoft seem to be exhibiting little faith in their partners to do it the way they want, so while they will support companies such as Dell and Lenovo, they want to release their own tablet which has been designed by their team inhouse.

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer: Surface tablet looks sleek - but will it sell?

So what’s the real reason behind the new hardware announcement?

Steve Ballmer said in the announcement that the Surface tablet “sort of primes the pump for more innovation around Windows 8 and brings new technology to the Windows PC platform”. What this is essentially saying is we don’t think anyone else is showcasing Windows hard enough, and we want more development.

This would indirectly add some weight to comments from Acer founder Stan Shih. Shih said Microsoft have no real intention to sell their Surface tablet PC’s and they are merely promoting the product as a ploy to boost the adoption of their upcoming Windows 8. They may also subliminally force their partners to enhance product development and to invest in new features and design concepts.

The upside of the Surface is to highlight that Microsoft have a new operating system being released soon, just in case anyone missed it. Microsoft claim that they designed and built Surface in-house but when it comes to mass production they are likely to be in talks with Foxconn. If Shih is right, they might only release a limited run of the product to judge market sales, then step out gracefully to fall back on their partners.

Windows 8 has received mixed results from the press and testers alike. The basis of Metro is clearly designed for a mobile device so why not show the world a new product where Windows 8 looks at home? The big question still needs answered however, will the pubic bite?

Kiguru Says: Has the Microsoft hype got your attention yet? Windows 8 tablet or not?

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