I have to admit, the general feeling towards Windows 8 is still not a positive one – definitely if you look at it from a desktop/productivity perspective. BUT, seeing the pictures of the newly announced Microsoft tablets there may be some hope for Microsoft/Windows – as long as you are in the ‘tablet’ or consumer market. They are to be branded ‘Surface’ or Microsoft boutique multi-touch tablets. Looks awsum! (but then these are marketing pictures…)

Microsoft tablet (shamelessly copied from techreport site 😉 )

One positive feature of both (yes that’s right two) models is the battery life. The ARM (NVidia) based one has something like a 31 watt-hour battery while the Intel one has 42 watt-hour. If that is true these little machines would really be nice for people that are always on the move. The Intel model features a full HD display while the ARM model has an expansion slot (Micro HD). Both models include an detachable ‘soft’ keyboard. Storage is not in the PC arena but still a useful 32 or 64GB on the ARM model and 64/128GB on the Intel one.

Keyboard choices

On a slightly negative side they only have USB 2.0 ports (not 100% sure about the Intel one) plus only the ARM model includes a copy of Office. The tablets will be sold in Microsoft ‘stores’ thus meaning it won’t be available in our beloved S of A. Our only option would be to try to buy it online or smuggle one in with a friend that was visiting the US of A.

Well, good luck Microsoft, perhaps there is some hope for ya.

Update: apparently the Intel based version does have USB 3.0. Nice.