From a price tag to how to use the interface, more information is pouring out about Microsoft’s Surface tablet causing a stir for fans and skeptics alike.
The Telegraph reported that senior executive, Mike Anguilo, promoted the firm’s work with PC makers and announced that Dell, Lenovo, and Samsung would all make Windows RT machines. As well as tablets, they will introduce “full keyboard and touchpad solutions, whether removable/dockable or a traditional clamshell,” he said.
Asus was the only manufacturer confirmed to work on the tablet, since it was announced in June, until now.
As the relationships are confirmed, some brands have problems with competing with their main software supplier.
“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,” JT Wang, the chief executive of the Taiwanese manufacturer Acer, said. The company pulled out of working on the Surface just last week.
Microsoft still has a backing from manufacturers capable of pushing a contender into the ring with the iPad.
“Our engineering collaboration on these Windows RT PCs has been strong, collaborating with the PC manufacturers, silicon partners, and operators to focus on hardware, software and services integration,” Anguilo also told the news source.
ARM processors are designed for long battery life and have become almost standard in smartphones and tablet. Windows was previously only available for more powerful x86 processors, designed by Intel and AMD, according to the Telegraph.
“As a result, all of these Windows RT PCs will have consistent fast and fluid touch interactions, long battery life, connected standby, and are beautiful, thin, and light designs.”
While many are excited about the interface and design, consumers may have to relearn how to use a PC, according to CNN. The Cable News Network details the gesture-based commands and calls it “the biggest change to Windows since the advent of the “Start” button 17 years ago in Windows 95.”
An anonymous “inside source” told Engadget that the Microsoft Surface RT tablet will sell for the amazingly low price of only $199, PC World reports. The source goes on to say it would be out of character for Microsoft, but if the pricing is truly that aggressive the Windows tablet could quickly claim significant market share.
Onuora Amobi of Windows8Update.com writes, “I am skeptical of this story for one reason and one reason only–it would be so brilliant that it would be inconsistent with the moves Microsoft have been making.”
Amobi adds, “At $199, it would be sold out on day one and would create huge Windows 8 buzz on day one. It would get Windows 8 into the homes of millions of adults, children and students immediately.”
The site points out that the debut of Apple’s iPhone at $599 and slashed its price to $399 after two months, finally selling millions at $199. PC World is skeptical about Microsoft’s model, considering that entering with such a reasonably priced product means any price raises will have the same effect on consumers that bad breath has on a first date.