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[Milchjon]

I just feel like Surface, even the RT version is much more capable and fully featured than any tablet on the market, particularly because it runs a less gimped OS compared to every other tablet. It really is a mini-computer with the ability to choose between tablet and laptop sensibilities. When tablets began buzzing, this is what I thought they were going to be like and unfortunately they all decided to go into the iPad's direction. Not to take away from the iPad's accomplishments, it does what it does well, but as a replacement for laptops? No way. The Surface has that potential. I honestly though it was going to be priced like an ultrabook.

Hmm, apart from Office and the cover, I'm not sure I agree when it comes to the RT. It's not much more capable than the iPad, and has pretty much no app library.
(I'd still prefer it, though ;-)

Now, the Pro has all the potential in the world. We'll have to see if consumers appreciate it (and if the battery holds up)

 

[Klocker]

$299 I'm in day 1.

Office 15, IE and app store?

that is perfect for me... like a gateway between my phone and desktop PC


WP8 to Surface to W8 PC all synced with my email, outlook, skydrive, calendar, contacts, OneNotes, documents, music and pics.... yea I'm into this ecosystem if it performs as advertised.

 

[brotkasten]

WP8 to Surface to W8 PC all synced with my email, outlook, skydrive, calendar, contacts, OneNotes, documents, music and pics.... yea I'm into this ecosystem if it performs as advertised.

You know what's missing here?

The synchronization between IE10 and IE10 Mobile. It seems so obvious.

 

[Klocker]

You know what's missing here?

The synchronization between IE10 and IE10 Mobile. It seems so obvious.

is that not in the plan? yea we need that.. I should be able to open a web page on my phone and continue reading on my Surface or PC.

 

[Milchjon]

You know what's missing here?

The synchronization between IE10 and IE10 Mobile. It seems so obvious.

Wait for... what is next in line?

Also, it doesn't seem exciting anymore, but don't forget about Xbox. MS, MS everywhere!!!

 

[maeh2k]

Hmm, apart from Office and the cover, I'm not sure I agree when it comes to the RT. It's not much more capable than the iPad, and has pretty much no app library.
(I'd still prefer it, though ;-)

Now, the Pro has all the potential in the world. We'll have to see if consumers appreciate it (and if the battery holds up)

It's way more capable than an iPad.

Plug in mouse, keyboard, big screen and it becomes very capable. Great for Office, great for browsing the internet (even if limited to IE).
It can use USB sticks, printers, cameras. Use an external HDD for backups.
At that point, it's a PC. (though limited in some respects)

 

[brotkasten]

is that not in the plan? yea we need that.. I should be able to open a web page on my phone and continue reading on my Surface or PC.

Not that I know.

But what do I know.

Wait for... what is next in line?

I like to call it Rambo.

 

[Milchjon]

I like to call it Rambo.

Sounds like Ballmer.

 

[Complex Shadow]

Sounds like Ballmer.

"i got this"
-ballmer

 

[Emily Chu]

GOD I've been waiting for a full desktop OS on a sleek tablet since the first ipad debuted

GIMME

 

[border]

GOD I've been waiting for a full desktop OS on a sleek tablet since the first ipad debuted

GIMME

Is it me or does it seem to happen with every new page that someone has to break the news to another poster that the Surface RT does not offer a "full desktop OS"?

Getting people to understand that their new $299 tablet is not "real Windows" computer is going to be one of Microsoft's biggest hurdles. I really hope it encourages them to push prices lower for x86 Win8 tablets, just to curb the disappointment.

 

[kami_sama]

It's way more capable than an iPad.

Plug in mouse, keyboard, big screen and it becomes very capable. Great for Office, great for browsing the internet (even if limited to IE).
It can use USB sticks, printers, cameras. Use an external HDD for backups.
At that point, it's a PC. (though limited in some respects)

Wait, isn't there a Firefox version for metro? I won't be able to install it?

 

[Windu]

Wait, isn't there a Firefox version for metro? I won't be able to install it?

I don't think Mozilla is building a version for Windows RT. IE10 is a good browser anyway.

 

[Cipherr]

Is it me or does it seem to happen with every new page that someone has to break the news to another poster that the Surface RT does not offer a "full desktop OS"?

Its gonna happen alot. Thats the only way I'm interested. I was under the impression that there is more or less a full desktop version, but that it was the Pro and hence more expensive. But maybe I was wrong /shrug. In any case, that would be the only way I would buy one.

 

[brotkasten]

Wait, isn't there a Firefox version for metro? I won't be able to install it?

Windows RT is not Windows 8.

Browsers on Windows RT are the same as on the iPad. Different UIs are allowed but they have to use the IE rendering engine, just like they have to use the Safari rendering engine on the iPad.

 

[trinest]

With the Pro next year and my laptop on its last legs, I was thinking of picking up an RT Surface just so I have something which doesn't overheat when viewing Google.

Non of the other tablets interest me, and if I can't get the Pro this year, I was thinking maybe make a gaming PC then have the RT for just the portability and random shit.

 

[border]

Browsers on Windows RT are the same as on the iPad. Different UIs are allowed but they have to use the IE rendering engine, just like they have to use the Safari rendering engine on the iPad.

Is there any reason for this? Why do Apple and MS do things that way?

 

[maeh2k]

Is there any reason for this? Why do Apple and MS do things that way?

They don't specifically target browsers. It's just that the apps generally don't get full access to the system to do whatever they want, like desktop apps would.

Windows RT is not meant for desktop applications. They could have opened up the desktop for all developers to build regular desktop software or port their existing Windows software, but that would hurt the user experience. Desktop programs could impact negatively on battery, the system would be more susceptible to malware, traditional desktop apps aren't meant for 10" tablets...

You just wouldn't get the simplicity of the iPad.

 

[tino]

Is it me or does it seem to happen with every new page that someone has to break the news to another poster that the Surface RT does not offer a "full desktop OS"?

Getting people to understand that their new $299 tablet is not "real Windows" computer is going to be one of Microsoft's biggest hurdles. I really hope it encourages them to push prices lower for x86 Win8 tablets, just to curb the disappointment.

This thing is going to have a high return rate just like those Linux netbooks.

 

[Gareth Bale]

I wish they'd hurry up and tell us about pricing. I want one of these as a more portable replacement for my ageing laptop, which at the moment struggles with HD video.

 

[jaxword]

The Tablet's MUSIC MAKING capabilities.

I really like the ipad's fun music apps.

Is there any word on how good the musicmaking will be on the tablet?

For that matter, is there any indication that third-party music making programs will work on it?

 

[HollovVpo1nt]

why is a sub $300 price so hard to believe for some? Microsoft has set up kiosks in malls across the country to specifically sell the surface. you think they'd do that if it was priced above $400? no one would care.

Yes, they would. The kiosks are there to make people want the Windows 8 Surface tablet, and show people Windows 8.

 

[brotkasten]

Yes, they would. The kiosks are there to make people want the Windows 8 Surface tablet, and show people Windows 8.

Windows RT, goddamn it!

It's Windows RT!

Curse you, Microsoft and your fucked up marketing division!

 

[HollovVpo1nt]

Windows RT, goddamn it!

It's Windows RT!

Curse you, Microsoft and your fucked up marketing division!

You're making it sound as if it makes a difference. People have to get used to the new Metro User Interface and User Experience, regardless if it's Windows 8 or RT.

 

[trinest]

True, but from a legacy user standpoint, and casuals who know about Windows. RT is gimped and they wouldn't pay heaps for it.

 

[HollovVpo1nt]

True, but from a legacy user standpoint, and casuals who know about Windows. RT is gimped and they wouldn't pay heaps for it.

Oh definantly. But beeing gimped means that it can not run most of the legacy apps. Once Windows 8 grows I'm sure most important programs (yes I called it programs, fuck apps) will have a 'gimped' but workable RT version. In any case, the RT's sold could give the platform a small push in the right direction of making the dependance on legacy apps smaller. For me for example, there are few some apps that run on PC that I need for school (autocad, matrixframe and such). Given how ARM hardware evolves year in year out, I wouldn't be surprised if we have enough power to run full fledged Windows 8 on ARM hardware in 2-3 years.

 

[Izick]

I hope the Surface has some major integration stuff with the Nextbox.

EDIT: Also fucking 19 days and we still have no price. Yikes.

 

[HammerOfThor]

Wait, the Win8 version isn't coming out until next year? Not with the RT tablets in a few weeks??

 

[Izick]

Wait, the Win8 version isn't coming out until next year? Not with the RT tablets in a few weeks??

Yeah, it's coming in about 3 months from the RT tablet, so yeah.

 

[deviljho]

EDIT: Also fucking 19 days and we still have no price. Yikes.

i no rite? worse than nintendo.

 

[PG2G]

Wait, the Win8 version isn't coming out until next year? Not with the RT tablets in a few weeks??

Probably waiting for Haswell

 

[infinityBCRT]

I think MS is trying to play a game of chicken with Apple. They don't want to come out and price their tablet at $349 and then have Apple undercut them with the iPad mini at $299 or something. Which is why I could see them waiting up until Oct 25th to announce pricing since the iPad mini event apparently will take place the week before according to the rumours (which say the invitations will be out this week for the iPad mini event and the event will be the following week).

 

[DieH@rd]

Wait, the Win8 version isn't coming out until next year? Not with the RT tablets in a few weeks??

Yes, when they showcased Surface for the first time they immediately noted that x86 versions will come in early 2013.

 

[bloodydrake]

why there isn`t going to be a Surface based on the clover trail as a mid range device I have no idea. They should have launched with all 3 since they are the flagship brand for these.


1.Surface RT should be marketed as an andriod, Ipad alternative Windows apps only.

2.Surface 8 as the next step up with full existing classic windows applications and games compatibility.

3.Surface Pro for high end Desktop level performance in a portable device lighter and more mobile then an ultra book

 

[LCfiner]

I think MS is trying to play a game of chicken with Apple. They don't want to come out and price their tablet at $349 and then have Apple undercut them with the iPad mini at $299 or something. Which is why I could see them waiting up until Oct 25th to announce pricing since the iPad mini event apparently will take place the week before according to the rumours (which say the invitations will be out this week for the iPad mini event and the event will be the following week).

well... I think both companies have their prices set. If MS is waiting, I think it's about wanting to get the message across after Apple has already said theirs. More about timing and marketing than any possibility of price adjustment.

Besides, isn't the surface a 10" tablet? It's competing more with the 500 dollar ipad than the mini product (which, I still think will be $250 and Apple can sell that for their healthy 40% margin. it's gonna be all old tech repackaged)

My bet is on the Surface RT being 300 or 350 - similar to the Kindle Fire HD 9". and priced higher than the 7" tablets out there.

 

[fluffydelusions]

I hope the Surface has some major integration stuff with the Nextbox.

EDIT: Also fucking 19 days and we still have no price. Yikes.

I'd like to bet the nextbox/720 whatever will pretty much be Win8 just a bit more customized to a console. I suspect it be able to use RT apps etc.

 

[Izick]

I'd like to bet the nextbox/720 whatever will pretty much be Win8 just a bit more customized to a console. I suspect it be able to use RT apps etc.

That's what my hope is. Do you think it will have a tablet/controller hybrid akin to the Wii U?

 

[HollovVpo1nt]

That's what my hope is. Do you think it will have a tablet/controller hybrid akin to the Wii U?

You have SmartGlass for that.

 

[brotkasten]

You're making it sound as if it makes a difference. People have to get used to the new Metro User Interface and User Experience, regardless if it's Windows 8 or RT.

Of course it makes a difference. People get confused all the time about what they can and can not do in Windows RT.

GOD I've been waiting for a full desktop OS on a sleek tablet since the first ipad debuted

GIMME

Is it me or does it seem to happen with every new page that someone has to break the news to another poster that the Surface RT does not offer a "full desktop OS"?

Getting people to understand that their new $299 tablet is not "real Windows" computer is going to be one of Microsoft's biggest hurdles. I really hope it encourages them to push prices lower for x86 Win8 tablets, just to curb the disappointment.

And that's just one of the many, many posts we have in this and the Windows 8 thread.

 

[SquiddyCracker]

We're looking at $300 for the Windows RT tablet?
Does that perhaps mean that the Windows 8 tablet might end up at maybe $500-600?
If so, I might pick one up for christmas.

 

[Milchjon]

We're looking at $300 for the Windows RT tablet?
Does that perhaps mean that the Windows 8 tablet might end up at maybe $500-600?
If so, I might pick one up for christmas.

Surface Pro won't be available before next year, for all we know.

 

[brotkasten]

We're looking at $300 for the Windows RT tablet?
Does that perhaps mean that the Windows 8 tablet might end up at maybe $500-600?
If so, I might pick one up for christmas.

The Surface Pro with Windows 8 has a Core i5 CPU, twice the RAM and a higher resolution display with a pen. Microsoft already said that it will be priced competitively with Ultrabooks, so 800 should be the cheapest price. They also said that it will come out 90 days after the Surface with Windows RT, which means early 2013.

 

[fluffydelusions]

Wait, the Win8 version isn't coming out until next year? Not with the RT tablets in a few weeks??

There is a pro version from Acer though this month iirc

 

[SquiddyCracker]

The Surface Pro with Windows 8 has a Core i5 CPU, twice the RAM and a higher resolution display with a pen. Microsoft already said that it will be priced competitively with Ultrabooks, so 800 should be the cheapest price. They also said that it will come out 90 days after the Surface with Windows RT, which means early 2013.

Hm, that kinda sucks.
They should really have a mid-tier tablet in-between the RT and PRO model that cost no more than 500-600 dollars, has slightly lower specs/internal storage, but still has proper windows and decent pen integration

There is a pro version from Acer though this month iirc

Pen?
Wacoom pen?

Ah, nope.

 

[brotkasten]

There is a pro version from Acer though this month iirc

But without the pen and a keyboard option. Not quite the same.

 

[-Pyromaniac-]

It's all about dat Surface Pro. Not sure why anyone would buy one of the other pro options at least until we find out all the details of the SPro.

 

[brotkasten]

Hm, that kinda sucks.
They should really have a mid-tier tablet in-between the RT and PRO model that cost no more than 500-600 dollars, has slightly lower specs/internal storage, but still has proper windows and decent pen integration

I think Samsung has a mid-tier Atom tablet with a pen.

Check out this thread for an overview. Tino did a great job with this.
http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=489163

 

[fluffydelusions]

But without the pen and a keyboard option. Not quite the same.

Ahh didn't really look into it. I just saw it on engadget the other day. I'll probably just pick up the RT surface anyway (price pending) I'm pretty much always around my laptop anyway. Just looking for something when laying in bed or whatever.

 

[brotkasten]

It's all about dat Surface Pro. Not sure why anyone would buy one of the other pro options at least until we find out all the details of the SPro.

I could see myself buying one of them for 300 next year. I really, really like Metro with touch hardware, so I wouldn't mind to have that option.

iPad 4 comes first, though.

 

[-Pyromaniac-]

I could see myself buying one of them for 300 next year. I really, really like Metro with touch hardware, so I wouldn't mind to have that option.

iPad 4 comes first, though.

I used an ipad for like 2 years, a nexus 7 for a few months now, and next yea it will be microsoft's turn for me. So far ipad still wins.