Microsoft Surface Ad: Apple, You Got Served

[IGOTGAME]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8mSckyoAMHg&feature=youtu.be

Looking like this is the way to go.

[Rose]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8mSckyoAMHg&feature=youtu.be

Looking like this is the way to go.
Depends. A lot of people are critiquing the OS. Personally I feel for tablets it should be a really really good one.

But the way Apple utterly dominates the tablet market, you've got to make it quality and cheap enough to not make people go..."Spend 399 for a completely new tablet on a new OS, when Microsoft has a history of questionable mobile products. Or would I be better off spending 499 for an iPad?"

Then you've got the iPad Mini rumors. But then again to the best of my knowledge prices on both the Surface and mini aren't known. So my hypothetical question could be invalid depending on the price factor.

[IGOTGAME]

Depends. A lot of people are critiquing the OS. Personally I feel for tablets it should be a really really good one.

But the way Apple utterly dominates the tablet market, you've got to make it quality and cheap enough to not make people go..."Spend 399 for a completely new tablet on a new OS, when Microsoft has a history of questionable mobile products. Or would I be better off spending 499 for an iPad?"

Then you've got the iPad Mini rumors. But then again to the best of my knowledge prices on both the Surface and mini aren't known. So my hypothetical question could be invalid depending on the price factor.
The price announcements for both should be in the next week.

[Rose]

The price announcements for both should be in the next week.
Also, I'm gonna add that this seems to be more of an Android aimed thing. Apple owns what? 70? 80%? of the tablet market. I'd say first they're gonna try and push that out then focus on Apple. Because right now Apple could push out a piece of shit tablet, and still sell like mad for a couple years. I can't think of an Android tablet that really sells off the top of my head like I can phones like the Galaxy and Note lines.

The best one I can think of the is the Kindle Fire, and that's amazon owned.:lol Maybe the Transformer line? but that's still around the typical Apple price.

Good to know about the price release, I'm not really in the market for a tablet based on price. But if a good one runs well, and is cheap enough I could see me getting one for eBooks, and note taking.

[Droid101]

Also, I'm gonna add that this seems to be more of an Android aimed thing. Apple owns what? 70? 80%? of the tablet market. I'd say first they're gonna try and push that out then focus on Apple. Because right now Apple could push out a piece of shit tablet, and still sell like mad for a couple years. I can't think of an Android tablet that really sells off the top of my head like I can phones like the Galaxy and Note lines.

The best one I can think of the is the Kindle Fire, and that's amazon owned.:lol Maybe the Transformer line? but that's still around the typical Apple price.

Good to know about the price release, I'm not really in the market for a tablet based on price. But if a good one runs well, and is cheap enough I could see me getting one for eBooks, and note taking.
Nexus 7 just won tablet of the year by T3. First non-iPad winner.

It's easily the best price-to-performance ratio tablet on the market by far.

http://awards.t3.com/categories/tablet-of-the-year/google-nexus-7

[embersyc]

That ad is horrible. I like the one on their website better. Although neither one tells you any specifics. Microsoft sucks at advertising.

I was excited for Surface, but it looks like the pro version won't be out for like 3 or 4 months still. Not really interested in Windows RT since I have Android devices. If I'm going to get a Windows 8 tablet its going to have a core i5 (or better) in it, not an arm processor.

Other companies are beating microsoft to the punch on real workhorse tablets than can actually replace your laptop.

Samsung:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834131398

Toshiba:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834216042

Acer:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834215610

All already have release dates for tablets that will be more powerful than most people's windows 7 machine.

While Windows RT is enough for most people so is a iPad, a Kindle Fire, or an Nexus 7. I don't see Microsoft having a ton of success in the low end $200 tablet sector.

[IGOTGAME]

That ad is horrible. I like the one on their website better. Although neither one tells you any specifics. Microsoft sucks at advertising.

I was excited for Surface, but it looks like the pro version won't be out for like 3 or 4 months still. Not really interested in Windows RT since I have Android devices. If I'm going to get a Windows 8 tablet its going to have a core i5 (or better) in it, not an arm processor.

Other companies are beating microsoft to the punch on real workhorse tablets than can actually replace your laptop.

Samsung:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834131398

Toshiba:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834216042

Acer:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834215610

All already have release dates for tablets that will be more powerful than most people's windows 7 machine.

While Windows RT is enough for most people so is a iPad, a Kindle Fire, or an Nexus 7. I don't see Microsoft having a ton of success in the low end $200 tablet sector.

Its got dat keyboard, microsoft word and looks sexy. Seriously though, the colors/look will set it apart from everything else not Apple.

Also, something tells me the Windows marketplace will be really good.

[Rose]

Nexus 7 just won tablet of the year by T3. First non-iPad winner.

It's easily the best price-to-performance ratio tablet on the market by far.

http://awards.t3.com/categories/tablet-of-the-year/google-nexus-7
Ooh nice did a slight bit of research there, and on google's site for it. No keyboard attachments? I know the iPad has one (but I'd rather buy one that has a case with it similar to how the Surface is built)

But very interesting. Might look into a tablet. maybe.

[Bucket_Nakedz]

eh... i don't see the point or purpose of tablets. i think smartphones are more than enough for portable use. and if you need shiet done, a simple netbook or laptop should suffice.

[IGOTGAME]

eh... i don't see the point or purpose of tablets. i think smartphones are more than enough for portable use. and if you need shiet done, a simple netbook or laptop should suffice.

if you commute on a train than they are a great way to consume media.

[bigkingsfan]

eh... i don't see the point or purpose of tablets. i think smartphones are more than enough for portable use. and if you need shiet done, a simple netbook or laptop should suffice.

A lot people also use this at home, checking facebook, playing angry bird and such.

[andgar923]

eh... i don't see the point or purpose of tablets. i think smartphones are more than enough for portable use. and if you need shiet done, a simple netbook or laptop should suffice.

There's people that don't need a computer tho. Some people just need it as an alternative to do certain tasks that are more convenient to do on a tablet. Others need them as an additional tool to a computer. Then there's the specialized tablet needs for services/companies.

The tablet isn't for everybody, but there is a legit purpose for one.

[IGOTGAME]

Anyway you will be able to use this with 3g/4g? Hope they shock the world with a 300 dollar price tag

[andgar923]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8mSckyoAMHg&feature=youtu.be

Looking like this is the way to go.

I get the ad, I just hope they release better ones.

Yes I understand that it has a cover that's clickable, but I didn't see 'why' I need one. If I'm a consumer and I have 3 choices (iPad, Nexus 7, Surface) I know what an iPad is. The price of a Nexus is very tempting, but what does a Surface provide other than a clickable cover?

They didn't show why you want one, why you need one, what you can do with a keyboard that's also a cover other than you can dance with it? :confusedshrug:

I hope future ads are clearer.

[Meticode]

I get the ad, I just hope they release better ones.

Yes I understand that it has a cover that's clickable, but I didn't see 'why' I need one. If I'm a consumer and I have 3 choices (iPad, Nexus 7, Surface) I know what an iPad is. The price of a Nexus is very tempting, but what does a Surface provide other than a clickable cover?

They didn't show why you want one, why you need one, what you can do with a keyboard that's also a cover other than you can dance with it? :confusedshrug:

I hope future ads are clearer.
Well apparently the "why" on purchasing a new iPhone 5 is to take panoramic pictures that Android has been taking well over 3 years now...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gNFc1otD8g

[andgar923]

Well apparently the "why" on purchasing a new iPhone 5 is to take panoramic pictures that Android has been taking well over 3 years now...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3gNFc1otD8g

People are aware on what the iPhone is.

Does the average consumer know what the surface is? specially how to use it?

This is a new tablet, new OS, and they're promoting an accessory that is somewhat of a mystery. Yet they promote how it clicks?

[Doctor Rivers]

...but what does a Surface provide other than a clickable cover?

Windows 8

[IGOTGAME]

People are aware on what the iPhone is.

Does the average consumer know what the surface is? specially how to use it?

This is a new tablet, new OS, and they're promoting an accessory that is somewhat of a mystery. Yet they promote how it clicks?

that accessory is the most important feature along with the Microsoft Surface name. it sets it apart from every other tablet.


but what does a Surface provide other than a clickable cover?

microsoft word

[andgar923]

Windows 8

Yes, but did we get that from 'this' ad?

which is why I stated that I hope they release better ads for this campaign.

They need to release an ad that shows the entire Windows 8 environment. How the Surface and a PC running Windows 8 can work seamlessly. That's something that I'm interested in knowing and eager to see. I understand that Windows 8 has touch interface inspired by the mobile experience, but how do they work together? If I'm a Windows user why should I buy this over an iPad or Nexus?

[andgar923]

that accessory is the most important feature along with the Microsoft Surface name. it sets it apart from every other tablet.



microsoft word

Again

[IGOTGAME]

Again…. why would I need that?

If I'm an avg consumer that doesn't follow The Verge or Ars Technica, have never heard of the Surface, why do I need that? why would I be interested in it? why would wanna chose this over others?

Naturally… I know 'of' it, I have yet to see it in action. This would've been a good time to show it off, don't you think? The iPad and I'm sure the Nexus already have a clickable cover. They don't have a clickable cover that's also a keyboard, but they didn't concentrate on this aspect in the commercial.


This is just one commercial. It focused on clickable keyboard cover on the commerical(which is why you had businessmen using it on a bench with legs crossed and people using it on tables etc.). There will be more. What makes Surface unique right now is that it is made to be used with a clickable cover and the keyboards are distinct.

Currently On Train:

-I can tell recognize whether or not you have an IPAD. Everything else just falls into the same category of things not IPAD.

After Surface:

-I can recognize whether you have an IPAD or Surface. Everything else is just something else.

This is what the commercial means to portray imo. Surface is the only tablet that has the name and distinct look to set itself apart from the other non-IPADS.

Overall, I don't really care about the commercials. I'm just deciding on what my next gadget will be.

[andgar923]

This is just one commercial. It focused on clickable keyboard cover on the commerical(which is why you had businessmen using it on a bench with legs crossed and people using it on tables etc.). There will be more. What makes Surface unique right now is that it is made to be used with a clickable cover and the keyboards are distinct.

Currently On Train:

-I can tell recognize whether or not you have an IPAD. Everything else just falls into the same category of things not IPAD.

After Surface:

-I can recognize whether you have an IPAD or Surface. Everything else is just something else.

This is what the commercial means to portray imo. Surface is the only tablet that has the name and distinct look to set itself apart from the other non-IPADS.

Overall, I don't really care about the commercials. I'm just deciding on what my next gadget will be.

And that's why the commercials are important when releasing not just a new product, but one competing against an iPad.

Advertising plays a big role in educating the consumer, specially when it's a different, new product.

Like I mentioned, I understand that they'll have new ads, they just need to be better.

[plowking]

andgar wants a 90 minute documentary explaining all the features in a one minute advertisement. Is it too much to ask guys?

[andgar923]

andgar wants a 90 minute documentary explaining all the features in a one minute advertisement. Is it too much to ask guys?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRnOQf8Pz94

this was the 1st iPad ad (my edit )

Remember people were doubting why we needed this? people were laughing at it? people were saying it was useless, that it was going to flop?

The commercial shows you exactly what you can do with it.

Today we take it for granted, but many people didn't know what was the point, shit, there's still people that don't understand what a tablet is needed for.

So YES you can release a commercial that gives better insight on an item.

[SpecialQue]

It was a cute ad, and I like how it looks, but if Windows 8 runs like ass, then I'm not wasting my money on it.

[sunsfan1357]

There's people that don't need a computer tho. Some people just need it as an alternative to do certain tasks that are more convenient to do on a tablet. Others need them as an additional tool to a computer. Then there's the specialized tablet needs for services/companies.

The tablet isn't for everybody, but there is a legit purpose for one.
This. Ever since I finished school I've found I don't really need a laptop when most of my time is spent browsing the web, listening to music, or watching movies. I have a desktop at work for work related stuff so lately I've been tempted to sell my laptop and get a tablet but I'm just skeptical on pulling the trigger since I don't know much about them in general.

[bigkingsfan]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRnOQf8Pz94

this was the 1st iPad ad (my edit )

Remember people were doubting why we needed this? people were laughing at it? people were saying it was useless, that it was going to flop?

The commercial shows you exactly what you can do with it.

Today we take it for granted, but many people didn't know what was the point, shit, there's still people that don't understand what a tablet is needed for.

So YES you can release a commercial that gives better insight on an item.

The difference is the ipad was a new product, everyone knows what a tablet does now. I don't think it'd be smart for Microsoft to show what it's capable of now, when the apps and 3rd party support is going to determine their success. This trendy commercial is much more effective, just taking a page from apple.

[plowking]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRnOQf8Pz94

this was the 1st iPad ad (my edit )

Remember people were doubting why we needed this? people were laughing at it? people were saying it was useless, that it was going to flop?

The commercial shows you exactly what you can do with it.

Today we take it for granted, but many people didn't know what was the point, shit, there's still people that don't understand what a tablet is needed for.

So YES you can release a commercial that gives better insight on an item.

Yes, now people know what a tablet can do... Hence they don't need to do all that. They show the main new features it is bringing. They did a fantastic job of that, and the ad promotes an ease of use vibe about it. People know you can browse the web, use word processors, read books, etc. Tablets have been around long enough.

[shadow]

That ad is horrible. I like the one on their website better. Although neither one tells you any specifics. Microsoft sucks at advertising.

I was excited for Surface, but it looks like the pro version won't be out for like 3 or 4 months still. Not really interested in Windows RT since I have Android devices. If I'm going to get a Windows 8 tablet its going to have a core i5 (or better) in it, not an arm processor.

Other companies are beating microsoft to the punch on real workhorse tablets than can actually replace your laptop.

Samsung:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834131398

Toshiba:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834216042

Acer:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834215610

All already have release dates for tablets that will be more powerful than most people's windows 7 machine.

While Windows RT is enough for most people so is a iPad, a Kindle Fire, or an Nexus 7. I don't see Microsoft having a ton of success in the low end $200 tablet sector.

I thought the same thing. That ad does suck. Apple ads are simple and tell you a lot more than this bollywood-esque over-production of an ad. And this is coming from an anti-apple, pro PC guy.
MS is basically screwing themselves over by pissing PC users off by forcing metro on the desktop, and I think they will run 3rd to andorid and apple in the tablet wars simply because they are so late to the game. I bet the first SP they release for W8 will bring back the start button to the desktop.

[andgar923]

Yes, now people know what a tablet can do... Hence they don't need to do all that. They show the main new features it is bringing. They did a fantastic job of that, and the ad promotes an ease of use vibe about it. People know you can browse the web, use word processors, read books, etc. Tablets have been around long enough.

My main point is, if you're MS and you want to tell people why you're different, colors and a 'click' isn't the best way to go imo.

The OS is unique, try selling them on that. The OS is something that they have on a pc, show them the advantage of having both a desktop and tablet OS that are the same. If you're gonna show the foldable keyboard/magnetic cover, show the advantages of this aspect.

We got to see a very small example of the keyboard, most of the commercial focused on the magnet, which Apple already has.

[Meticode]

For anyone who wants to know what features the Surface will have, just watch the Keynote...

They put a ton of work into the design of it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jozTK-MqEXQ

[Crystallas]

Cool advertisement. But if I bought things based on cool advertisements, and ignore realism, I would own less things, and more of it would be junk.


Linux tablets still > all (except for newbies)

[dunksby]

What a stupid ad, but then again it is targeting stupid people anyway.

[Meticode]

Anyway you will be able to use this with 3g/4g? Hope they shock the world with a 300 dollar price tag
On the keynote they said the pricing would compete with high-end ultrabook pricing.

[andgar923]

for the microsoft surface that comes with windows 8 professional, which is coming out later

microsoft surface with windows 8 rt will be much lower

Silly question but most users will wanna know.

What's the difference?

What can I do on a pro model that I can't on the avg one?

Should I wait for the pro model?

What will I sacrifice?

[andgar923]

On the keynote they said the pricing would compete with high-end ultrabook pricing.

:wtf:

What does that mean?

Are they not competing vs other tablets then?

Is this then considered a tablet or an ultra book?

[andgar923]

it was confusing to me at first as well

but windows 8 rt tablets run off ARM chips. so not x86/x64.
windows 8 rt actually comes with office preinstalled, but due to the chip in it, cant run all applications.
as of right now, acer, samsung, and asus windows 8 rt tablets are between 599 and 699.
so windows surface rt will be around there or lower

windows 8 pro tablets will run off of the low powered but high end intel chips. ivy bridge i5, higher capacity solid state 64gb/128 gb, and 1080p displays.
so essentially it is an ultrabook in a tablet form factor.
i imagine these will be at least 800 starting

I think Windows 8 looks like a potentially revolutionary OS, I've promoted the Windows phone (I just got an app that emulates their metro UI for my iPhone), but I dunno if they'll compete with both Droid or iPad tablets.

They need to keep it simple.

Yeah, I will come off as a fanboy to some, but there's a reason why Apple keeps their models (choices) simple and why iOS is different than their OS X. They thought about the different possibilities. And while they may be wrong at times, I think they made a wise choice in creating a different OS for both systems, and making their mobile shit the same for everybody. Imagine the criticism Apple would receive if they had an iPad PRO, iPhone PRO and a non PRO one?

Dunno bout this Microsoft.

[Meticode]

Pro would be the way to go if you get it. It'll give you a PC experience in the forum of a tablet/ultrabook. As jaydacris said, The ARM version will be limited to apps specifically designed for the tablet. If you go with the Pro version you'll be able to use apps you use on your PC right now.

[andgar923]

yah i agree.
there will no doubt be some consumer confusion. since for one microsoft is deciding to release their own hardware (like Apple) alongside OEMS. and as well trying to explain what differentiates windows 8 rt vs windows 8 traditional. since they do look the same. but it isnt too hard to understand once properly explained

microsoft is essentially trying to kill two birds with one stone. the RT version is meant to be like an ipad/android tablet. and the pro tablet is meant for better productivity and use it like a real version of windows. this can be potentially successful or potentially backfire. i for one am a fan of the PRO tablets. and depending on price, id prly buy one

my friend is a manager for a staples canada store, and staples has a big push for selling apple products right now and obviously to sell windows 8 when it comes out.
they literally are talking about how if windows 8 seems too overwhelming for a consumer, then it'll help them sell apple. microsoft subliminally helping apple hahah

So what happens when MS releases the Office suite for the iPad?

They will release it, they've been rumored to be working on it. Either way, there's different replacement apps. If I have an iPad, why would I or my employer wanna spend another $800 on something I can already do on my current tablet?

YOu can already sync and share documents

[niko]

Other companies need to make the point that you can move over your songs that you formatted for Itunes, your movies, etc. My wife has a huge library of stuff on her ipad. ALL of it could move over (it's not purchased from Apple). But she doesn't want to lose anything, so for her the thought of a different company is scary. THe advertising should make clear that you can move your stuff over. We are not different, we are better. There is a perception from those not technically savvy that apple products are easy to use (tablets) and that the other companies are not.

[IGOTGAME]

http://gizmodo.com/5952106/microsoft-surface-500-for-32gb-of-windows-8s-best-hope

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/182c1mno9kezvpng/original.png

Price is out. Don't know if I can justify getting this over the Nexus, Mini or IPAD 3.


Going to have to wait for the reviews.

[Asiantastic]

Andgar is the Clippersfan/Euroleague/pauk of Apple.

[andgar923]

http://gizmodo.com/5952106/microsoft-surface-500-for-32gb-of-windows-8s-best-hope

http://img.gawkerassets.com/img/182c1mno9kezvpng/original.png

Price is out. Don't know if I can justify getting this over the Nexus, Mini or IPAD 3.


Going to have to wait for the reviews.
DOA

[rezznor]

http://gizmodo.com/5952078/inside-surface-microsofts-insane-quest-for-gadget-perfection


Inside Surface: Microsoft’s Insane Quest for Gadget Perfection
Sam Biddle
Surface, the sorta-tablet-sorta-laptop that shouts the future, goes on sale today. We got to peek (and touch, a little bit!) behind the scenes, with access to Microsoft's secret labs never granted to anyone else before. So, should you buy a Surface? Very possibly—the thing seems pretty fantastic.

At least, that's what Microsoft is screaming until its lungs explode.
Note: for those of you who don't care about anything except how and when you can buy a Surface, OK: it's available for pre-order today, with the 32 GB model running $500 (and a benjamin for the obligatory touch keyboard case) and the 64 GB costing $700, including keyboard. You can buy them straight from Microsoft here.

In a pretend Microsoft retail store in a nondescript Redmond shopping compound, masked from the outside world and cordoned off by corporate paramilitary forces—I had to attach a labeled sticky note to my phone and surrender it before entering—is a prototype of what every Microsoft store will look like when Surface launches. "Store Zero," they call it. It's a fake store, but the idea is very real: All Surface Everything. The word is everywhere. Almost half the joint is covered with slate samples. And in the back, on a very large screen, we were treated to a preview of the first ad for Microsoft's wunderkomputer, a one minute dance montage directed by the guy who brought us Step Up 2 and one of the G.I. Joe movies. It's sixty seconds of people whirling around with impeccable matte Surfaces, clicking the keyboards into place, spinning into each others' arms, grinning, winking, spinning more, twirling upside down—an orgiastic tablet frenzy, a perfect hybrid of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and late-season Glee.

Microsoft presents Surface with the pride parents would ascribe to a drumming, overachieving baby. Its creators actually refer to it as "baby" on multiple occasions.



Absent from the ad is any mention of how you actually use the computer, or why you should. Which is odd, because Microsoft gave me a meticulously guided tour of its hermetically sealed R&D facilities just to impress upon me how much thought it put into the Surface as a super-slim ultra-computer of the current millennium, not a musical dance prop. And there's no reason to doubt it: Microsoft poured an unprecedented amount of dedication and consideration into Surface, easily (ostensibly) equaling Apple's recent design fanaticism with the iPhone 5. It shines with thoughtfulness. The size of the screen was agonized over, oscillating between fractions of an inch to reach ideal proportions for Windows 8's multitasking. It had to feel exactly like a book, spine and all. The kickstand, project leaders explained to us, was carefully tweaked so that it would sound exactly perfect when it snaps shut. The extent to which this click was obsessed over during the design process seems like marketing hot air, then insanity, and then after you keep hearing them talk about it, you realize it's just a company truly giving a damn about making something beautiful and nearly perfect.

Surface has an extra, custom-designed hinge devoted solely to create this particular click sound.

The industrial design team, commanded by a Teutonic Jonny Ive equivalent with glasses as meticulously designed as the computer he oversaw, walked us through Microsoft's creative odyssey, the spirit of which they say began before Windows 7 was even finished. A time, Microsoft brass archly points out, in which there was "a complete absence of an iPad." Microsoft says it's the logical advancement of everything that is Microsoft—everything that is the computer, regardless of what shape it takes. It's not about an expensive way to play Temple Run or watch movies on an airplane, say Redmond's acolytes. It's about making things. Real life stuff, like emails, essays, presentations. Things that earn you money, grades, and gratification. Not the sexy stuff of Zooey Deschanel ads or dance routines, but, as the boring term calls it, productivity. Creation, not consumption.

In other words: screw you, iPad, I'm writing a book report on this thing. Go to hell, Kindle Fire HD—I'm writing books, not reading them. At least, that's how Microsoft would like to frame it.



The crazy thing is, this may not be just bluster. After all, Surface runs Windows, and as un-sexy as that might sound, in 2012, it's actually great. Windows RT, the tablet-ized version of Windows 8, will give you almost all the tools you're used to using on a desktop, plus the plush touch wonders of the new Metro Start Menu interface. So you can swipe around Twitter feeds and maps with extremely fluidity—Surface's touch display is one of the best, most responsive I've ever laid fingers on—and then set your wrists down to tap-type away like you would on a desktop's keyboard.

The Touch Cover, which we were given a chance to finally paw under supervised lab conditions, combines a super-sensitive pressure-triggered keyboard and trackpad into one mega-thin sheet, definitely isn't painless. It will take practice. Typos were frequent, and my hands felt off when I first put them down on the thing. But even within ten minutes or so I was able to feel my brain slowly rewiring itself, no longer relying on the feeling of buttons being pressed down, but letting the recesses and the laser-etched lettering guide my fingertips. It never registered keystrokes in error. You can rest your wrists on it without typing "aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa" by accident. It's all tuned by software algorithm to detect when you're intentionally typing.

Microsoft says it'll take about five days for you to reach full speed typing on a Surface. I didn't have anywhere near enough typing time to say for sure, but I'd reckon you'll double that to account for discrepancies between Microsoft and reality. The thought of getting actual work done, or composing an email more than "k thx" on an iPad makes me want to commit shrieking suicide. On a Surface, it seems to be just a pleasant trip up a learning curve. Would it be more ideal if the keyboard worked perfectly right away? Of course it would. But if the effort to get it seamless turns out to be as nominal as Microsoft promises, it'll be well worth it.


We weren't allowed to photograph anything we saw, which is a drag, so here's a list of design-wow bullet points, the next best thing to a JPG:

The Surface design we know now was initially inspired by a Moleskine notebook. Then a college ruled spiral notebook, carved up with a knife with strung together with scotch tape to resemble the real thing.
The industrial design team, which Microsoft says had never received outside visitors before, stared at each other with a mix of caution, paranoia, and terror when we walked in, like some isolated indigenous tribe who'd traded spears and arrows for typeface manuals and Pantone swatches. They were up to their neck in dizzying prototype sketches and hugely complex planning diagrams. Their love was manifest.
Speaking of prototypes, the team's leader says they went through roughly 300 models before arriving at the Surface's current form. They still sit, stacked upon each other like old magazines, in the Surface design studio. Piles and piles.
Some of these models were unbelievably ugly—one's back was covered in reflective chrome trim.
The current model is entirely beautiful. One of the most subtle, powerful, and lovely pieces of gadget design I've ever held.
The sound the keyboard makes when touched was agonized over—it had to sound just as right as it felt. It does. The keyboard, Microsoft says, also knows when its trackpad is being used as a spacebar instead of a trackpad. The keyboard is smart.
The team used paper printouts of a keyboard and ink-stamped fingertips from hand focus groups in order to craft an optimal button layout that anyone could type quickly on.
The Surface's proprietary magnesium construction is strong as hell. At one point, a team leader brought out a Surface with skateboard wheels affixed to it and rolled back and forth standing on top. It barely flexed.
The custom-crafted polyurethane Touch Cover is washable. Spill your gravy on it and then put it under the sink.
Microsoft is obsessed with chamfers. Our year, 2012, might just be the year of the chamfer. The team spend literally minutes talking about the decision to go from an 0.3 mm chamfer on the Surface's top edge to an 0.5 mm chamfer. It was admitted that the stage Surface was first revealed upon mirrored the exact chamfering of the Surface's frame. Do you realize how crazy that is? Do you realize how much Microsoft loves this computer? There's no shame in googling "chamfer."

[rezznor]

[QUOTE]
Here's all you really need to know, all we can know at this point: Surface is truly gorgeous, and fantastically designed upon first blush, and second blush. But despite Microsoft's insistence that it has no carefully chamfered axe to grind, the company iss obviously insecure about its wonderful computer. The comparisons to and preemptive defenses against the iPad were countless

[flipogb]

I usually root for Microsoft , but this is Touchpad part 2.

price is too high without the keyboard. and still not competitive enough even if itwas included.

I have an android phone and tablet and my laptop is adequate enough to upgrade to windows 8 for what I use it for so no windows RT surface for me at that price.

I do want to replace my android tablet since I feel its repetitive with my phone, it looks like its gonna be an Ipad mini. I have an 8 inch tablet so if the Ipad mini is ebtween 7 and 8 , then il probably buy it

[rezznor]

if this can replace a laptop then i'll consider it.

[embersyc]

Wow so the price for the RT version is $200-300 more than initial reports, but the price is on point with the Windows RT tablets announced by other companies.

Maybe RT will better than I think, but I personally don't plan to **** with it, especially not at that price. Since it will be 3-4 months before Microsoft releases a pro version it seems I am destined to get a non-microsoft Windows 8 device.

[Rose]

:roll: :roll: :roll:

I'm shocked at the price. They were at least right about that.

[SpecialQue]

if this can replace a laptop then i'll consider it.

If this is basically a mini laptop with a touch screen, it could be a hit. I'm getting one from my business, so if anyone cares I'll give my thoughts on it once it's in my hands.

[RRR3]

If this is basically a mini laptop with a touch screen, it could be a hit. I'm getting one from my business, so if anyone cares I'll give my thoughts on it once it's in my hands.
Que, offtopic, but I need to know would you be interested in joining fantasy basketball league?

[sunsfan1357]

$500 and you don't even get the sweet click-y keyboard thing?! :eek:

[IGOTGAME]

$500 and you don't even get the sweet click-y keyboard thing?! :eek:

I think they did that to give people the option of getting the touch keyboard or the type keyboard. So you can buy the 500 dollar one and just pick whatever color and type that you want.

[sunsfan1357]

I think they did that to give people the option of getting the touch keyboard or the type keyboard. So you can buy the 500 dollar one and just pick whatever color and type that you want.
I see, it just seems like utilizing the OS wouldn't really be efficient without the touch keyboard. Looks like I'll be looking into a Nexus (again). I just can't decide what I want for a tablet that's affordable and worth the relatively low price I'm looking for :confusedshrug:

[Math2]

:facepalm I hate the tablet interface so much that I'm considering just switching to Linux or something.

[Velocirap31]

The screen resolution of the Surface sucks. If you want clear 1080, get an Acer Iconia, Transformer Infinity or iPad 3. The device looks cool, but a sub-720p screen is just inexcusable now.

[IGOTGAME]

Will Windows RT play more video formats than Apple? I would love to watch mkv files without having to reformat.

If one of these tablets made putting blu-rays/dvd on them more simple it would be a win.

[Velocirap31]

Will Windows RT play more video formats than Apple? I would love to watch mkv files without having to reformat.

There are video apps you can download that play mkv no problem. I never use the default video player with my android tablet. Apple and Microsoft are probably the same. I use BS Player the most, it plays everything.

[IGOTGAME]

There are video apps you can download that play mkv no problem. I never use the default video player with my android tablet. Apple and Microsoft are probably the same. I use BS Player the most, it plays everything.

true. I would still love to just be able to put digital copies on my tablet easily. idk, it is prob doable but I just don't know how.

[Velocirap31]

true. I would still love to just be able to put digital copies on my tablet easily. idk, it is prob doable but I just don't know how.

Dvd's are easy since they rarely exceed 4 gigs, but blu-ray movies are huge. The only way to fit more than one on a tablet would be to compress it yourself or download a compressed version. They need tablets with hundreds of gigabytes hard drives.

[IGOTGAME]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcU-xf-skts

new ad for andgar


Dvd's are easy since they rarely exceed 4 gigs, but blu-ray movies are huge. The only way to fit more than one on a tablet would be to compress it yourself or download a compressed version. They need tablets with hundreds of gigabytes hard drives.

How, would one go about putting a digital copy on a tablet? I have a touchpad now running Android? doesn't seem that easy.

[Timmy D for MVP]

MADD CHAD sighting.

[rezznor]

has usb and micro sd..excellent...

[andgar923]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcU-xf-skts

new ad for andgar



How, would one go about putting a digital copy on a tablet? I have a touchpad now running Android? doesn't seem that easy.

Much much better.

Now they have to make a 30 second ad like this.

But even then, they should focus more on the OS which is its strongest hook. They also didn't show any fun things to do on it. The commercial had a 'fun' mood, but they were all typing on the shit for the most part. No gaming, no rad apps, it was all about the keyboard.

But still huge improvement.

[stevieming]

That ad is horrible. I like the one on their website better. Although neither one tells you any specifics. Microsoft sucks at advertising.

I was excited for Surface, but it looks like the pro version won't be out for like 3 or 4 months still. Not really interested in Windows RT since I have Android devices. If I'm going to get a Windows 8 tablet its going to have a core i5 (or better) in it, not an arm processor.

Other companies are beating microsoft to the punch on real workhorse tablets than can actually replace your laptop.

Samsung:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834131398

Toshiba:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834216042

Acer:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834215610

All already have release dates for tablets that will be more powerful than most people's windows 7 machine.

While Windows RT is enough for most people so is a iPad, a Kindle Fire, or an Nexus 7. I don't see Microsoft having a ton of success in the low end $200 tablet sector.

Totally agree, that ad was trying too hard....

[andgar923]

Here is your messiah speaking:
http://www.winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-rt-redmond-problem-144554


I really like Windows 8 and think Windows RT is a great long-term play against the iPad and other tablet challengers. But any excitement Microsoft generated around this launch will be squandered when people realize they just bought something that looks like Windows 8 but comes with even fewer apps than Windows Phone. That’s not a recipe for success, it’s a recipe for disaster. And I’m tired of cleaning up the mess.

[Legend of Josh]

I ****ing hate Apple, but openly admit I have an iPhone.

[Meticode]

I'm not sure why they want to release a Windows RT version unless it's to make it more affordable to consumers, but the thing is consumers want a tablet experience, but through PC standards, which is what the Windows 8 Pro edition will bring. If you're going to get it, go all in and get the Windows 8 Pro version. The RT version will just hold you back.

[andgar923]

I'm not sure why they want to release a Windows RT version unless it's to make it more affordable to consumers, but the thing is consumers want a tablet experience, but through PC standards, which is what the Windows 8 Pro edition will bring. If you're going to get it, go all in and get the Windows 8 Pro version. The RT version will just hold you back.

I think they're targeting the general consumer and businesses with this. But then again, how can they aim for businesses when some apps don't run on it?

:confusedshrug:

I can see the selling point to an avg consumer, but geeks or users with a higher demand won't be too thrilled.

[Meticode]

I think they're targeting the general consumer and businesses with this. But then again, how can they aim for businesses when some apps don't run on it?

:confusedshrug:

I can see the selling point to an avg consumer, but geeks or users with a higher demand won't be too thrilled.
I'm curious how many people will purchase it and be like "Oh cool, a tablet PC!" then they'll figure out Winamp 5 or Photoshop won't even run on it.

[andgar923]

I'm curious how many people will purchase it and be like "Oh cool, a tablet PC!" then they'll figure out Winamp 5 or Photoshop won't even run on it.

I'm sure Adobe will eventually develop an app for this, but will it be too late? or will they even do so?

PS should be one of the premier apps, specially developed for this platform. I wonder how many apps that are compatible will be released from day 1?

What's the battery life on these things btw?

if it's gonna run some of the Metro pc apps, I wonder how much battery they're gonna drain?

I also question how well they're gonna run?

Apps designed specifically for devices are crash prone as it is, how well are the desktop based Metro apps gonna perform? are they gonna crash all the time? will they have many bugs? how well will the ui elements translate in this form factor? Will developers have to code for the two different environments? does the OS that's running these pads render apps differently? what will be the syncing and installation process?

Sorry, but I can't see this being a very good tablet unless most of those questions are solved.

I also hope some users don't get the impression that they'll be able to run their pc games on this, cause I doubt that'll happen. MS has to be very careful how they promote this.

[redhonda76]

I'm not sure why they want to release a Windows RT version unless it's to make it more affordable to consumers, but the thing is consumers want a tablet experience, but through PC standards, which is what the Windows 8 Pro edition will bring. If you're going to get it, go all in and get the Windows 8 Pro version. The RT version will just hold you back.

Windows RT is really aim on the low end price point and compete against iPad. RT is strictly consumer-based due to no active directory integration.
From a corporation stand point, managing iPads are already nightmare for IT, so we're not crazy on the RT version. However, we can't wait to get our hands on the Windows 8 Pro version laptop/tablet hybrids.

[IGOTGAME]

I think they're targeting the general consumer and businesses with this. But then again, how can they aim for businesses when some apps don't run on it?

:confusedshrug:

I can see the selling point to an avg consumer, but geeks or users with a higher demand won't be too thrilled.

Well for business the most important programs are the microsoft office suite. Personally, all I need are Office, Excel and Powerpoint. I need the Word app to get the formatting PERFECT and I need the track changes functionality. Other than that there are 0 other things that I would need from a tablet.

Why would a typical person in business more apps than the Office Suite? Microsoft Office is the backbone of buinsess bro.

If this thing surfs the internet, has reliable MS Word, good keyboard, WSJ ,Netflix and Crunchyroll then I will buy ASAP. That is all I use my tablet for. That is all I want. The only thing I would love is the ability to write on pdfs and send the edited copy.

[andgar923]

Well for business the most important programs are the microsoft office suite. Personally, all I need are Office, Excel and Powerpoint. I need the Word app to get the formatting PERFECT and I need the track changes functionality. Other than that there are 0 other things that I would need from a tablet.

Why would a typical person in business more apps than the Office Suite? Microsoft Office is the backbone of buinsess bro.

If this thing surfs the internet, has reliable MS Word, good keyboard, WSJ ,Netflix and Crunchyroll then I will buy ASAP. That is all I use my tablet for. That is all I want. The only thing I would love is the ability to write on pdfs and send the edited copy.

[QUOTE]Windows RT will not run any desktop Windows applications beyond the applications that are bundled with the operating system. Bundled applications include virtually every single desktop application found in Windows 8

[IGOTGAME]

Question is, how well will Office work and how compatible will it be?

There's already apps to edit PDFs on other tablet platforms.

And what happens when Office is released for the other platforms as well? that will all but most certainly kill the Surface's biggest advantage for many.

I want to be able to edit pdf documents with a high end pen. I don't think that exists on the IPad. I'm not considering any other tablet.

Well Office is bundled into the price. So is a keyboard. Seems like this would be the app for me personally. With Apple, I'd have to buy a lesser keyboard and still buy Office. Plus, I just don't want an IPAD.


Surface seems to do everything a tablet should do + Microsoft Office + good looking and distinctive + top of the line keyboard. Only thing missing is 3g/4g but I will just upgrade my phone to mobile hotspot.

What other applications would I want to run on a tablet? All, I ever use my entire laptop for are internet, netflix etc and Microsoft Office. I literally use no other programs since I stopped using torrents. Seriously, what are average doods using on their tablets/laptops that I'm missing?

[redhonda76]

Question is, how well will Office work and how compatible will it be?

There's already apps to edit PDFs on other tablet platforms.

And what happens when Office is released for the other platforms as well? that will all but most certainly kill the Surface's biggest advantage for many.

Pages, Numbers, KeyNotes and QuickOffice does not display well and often have font issues when it's creating from MS Office in my company. Definitely , Surface with Office bundled will be a huge plus for us

[Asiantastic]

Has anyone posted this yet?

http://www.theverge.com/2012/10/20/3529462/surface-pre-orders-sold-out-delayed-uk

Either Microsoft made too few or a lot of people bought this based on hype. I personally think it looks amazing but does lack a lot of things that would have pushed it over the top.

[IGOTGAME]

btw,


First 100 people in line will receive a 12 Month Xbox Music Pass with unlimited streaming and downloads as a gift with purchase, a value of $99.90. So be sure to get here early!

Plus don’t miss the free Xbox prizes.



Some got excited. Some shook their heads. Some felt fortunate to have a DVR.
The reactions to Microsoft's new clicking danceathon Surface ad -- the one that made "Glee" look sedate -- have often been deeply-felt.
But who cares what human beings think when you can get hold of numbers?
How delightful, then, that Ace Metrix -- a company that loves to put numbers to things -- has definitive numbers about whether the Surface ad clicked.
Some of you will feel your Sunday is complete when I tell you that Ace Metrix declared it the "most effective" tablet-only ad of 2012.
Yes, the best. The very best. It dances around the competition

http://news.cnet.com/8301-17852_3-57536847-71/microsoft-surface-dancing-ad-pulverizes-apple/

[IGOTGAME]

First Review - PC Magazine- http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2411252,00.asp


PROS
Comes with a full version of Office 2013 (Home and Student). Good battery life. MicroSDXC slot. USB 2.0 port. Compact. Includes Touch Cover. Touch Cover sleeps and wakes the tablet. Micro-HDMI port. No fans. "Always connected." Dual band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz).
CONS
Kickstand assist only on left face. Only one angle on kickstand. Requires flat surface to use with Touch and Type covers. Speakers are very soft. Few apps on Microsoft's Store. Not compatible with existing Windows 7 and XP programs. Proprietary charger port.
BOTTOM LINE
The Microsoft Surface with Windows RT bridges the distance between tablet and laptop for many users, particularly if you use the Web or Microsoft Office constantly. The Surface has very good hardware and some innovative design, but Microsoft Office RT is the killer app that comes to the Surface and makes it shine.

[sixerfan82]

What other applications would I want to run on a tablet? All, I ever use my entire laptop for are internet, netflix etc and Microsoft Office. I literally use no other programs since I stopped using torrents. Seriously, what are average doods using on their tablets/laptops that I'm missing?

There's a nice draw for developers who dont want a laptop but need a mobile computing device. This allows you to have a casual device to carry around with serious computing power, I can attach/hookup/unfold the keyboard to do some quick work and then go back to having work.

[bdreason]

Andgar losing sleep at night. :oldlol:

[IGOTGAME]

Surface is here! Andar MAF.

[andgar923]

Andgar losing sleep at night. :oldlol:
Why, I could care less.:confusedshrug:

[Jax]

It's all about cydia breh's don't get it twisted...

[Spue]

I picked mine up yesterday morning and got the Xbox music year membership. I like it a lot so far. Anyone else get one?

[Cangri]

I picked mine up yesterday morning and got the Xbox music year membership. I like it a lot so far. Anyone else get one?
Tomorrow I'm gonna check it out and probably buy it, I want to get the Surface Pro but I can't wait 3 months!:mad:

[SpecialQue]

I picked mine up yesterday morning and got the Xbox music year membership. I like it a lot so far. Anyone else get one?

I finally got mine today.

First off, I'm still exploring it, and there's a free app in their marketplace that teaches you Windows 8 if you need it. It's different. I'm used to using my iPad and Android-based systems, but Windows 8 seems decent. The social media integration so far kind of sucks ass, but like I said, I'm still figuring this shit out. You have the option of toggling back and forth between the new Windows 8 platform and a traditional Windows desktop, which is strange to see on a tablet.

This thing definitely looks and feels like they were going for "portable laptop with a touchscreen." I opted for the type keyboard instead of the touch, and it works great and isn't that much heavier. The touch keyboard feels weird and takes some getting used to, so if you'd rather use a traditional keyboard, get the type. The length of the Surface makes it look strange when you hold it up like you would an iPad, so you're probably not going to be holding it that way. The kickstand is great and that combined with the keyboard/cover make it easy to use on small surfaces.

This is probably going to replace my Macbook Air as my travel laptop, since most of my business work is fairly small scale and doesn't require something as powerful as the Air. I really like it so far and it's the first tablet I've used since the iPad that doesn't feel entirely derivative.

[Meticode]

I finally got mine today.

First off, I'm still exploring it, and there's a free app in their marketplace that teaches you Windows 8 if you need it. It's different. I'm used to using my iPad and Android-based systems, but Windows 8 seems decent. The social media integration so far kind of sucks ass, but like I said, I'm still figuring this shit out. You have the option of toggling back and forth between the new Windows 8 platform and a traditional Windows desktop, which is strange to see on a tablet.

This thing definitely looks and feels like they were going for "portable laptop with a touchscreen." I opted for the type keyboard instead of the touch, and it works great and isn't that much heavier. The touch keyboard feels weird and takes some getting used to, so if you'd rather use a traditional keyboard, get the type. The length of the Surface makes it look strange when you hold it up like you would an iPad, so you're probably not going to be holding it that way. The kickstand is great and that combined with the keyboard/cover make it easy to use on small surfaces.

This is probably going to replace my Macbook Air as my travel laptop, since most of my business work is fairly small scale and doesn't require something as powerful as the Air. I really like it so far and it's the first tablet I've used since the iPad that doesn't feel entirely derivative.
Thanks for this review, I possibly was thinking of getting this (Windows 8 Pro) version. I was going to go with the type keyboard anyway possibly. i might wait until other versions come out, maybe a second generation one or something similar.

[SpecialQue]

Thanks for this review, I possibly was thinking of getting this (Windows 8 Pro) version. I was going to go with the type keyboard anyway possibly. i might wait until other versions come out, maybe a second generation one or something similar.

It wouldn't hurt to wait. Their app store is really sparse right now and not that user-friendly. If I didn't get this through my work, I would have waited a few months to make sure they got all the kinks out. The success of this is really going to depend on how well Windows 8 in general takes off.

[Spue]

I finally got mine today.

First off, I'm still exploring it, and there's a free app in their marketplace that teaches you Windows 8 if you need it. It's different. I'm used to using my iPad and Android-based systems, but Windows 8 seems decent. The social media integration so far kind of sucks ass, but like I said, I'm still figuring this shit out. You have the option of toggling back and forth between the new Windows 8 platform and a traditional Windows desktop, which is strange to see on a tablet.

This thing definitely looks and feels like they were going for "portable laptop with a touchscreen." I opted for the type keyboard instead of the touch, and it works great and isn't that much heavier. The touch keyboard feels weird and takes some getting used to, so if you'd rather use a traditional keyboard, get the type. The length of the Surface makes it look strange when you hold it up like you would an iPad, so you're probably not going to be holding it that way. The kickstand is great and that combined with the keyboard/cover make it easy to use on small surfaces.

This is probably going to replace my Macbook Air as my travel laptop, since most of my business work is fairly small scale and doesn't require something as powerful as the Air. I really like it so far and it's the first tablet I've used since the iPad that doesn't feel entirely derivative.

The only complaint I have is the xbox music app. When you choose a song from an album it will only play that one song and stop. I wish it would continue to play the album with out selecting play album. other than that I can't complain.

[hoopaddict08]

Anyone recommend the Surface?

I'm looking for something I can surf the internet, watch videos, and do homework on (I take online and campus classes). So basically I need programs like Microsoft Word.

I just heard about this yesturday and I have been thinking of getting either the Nexus 7 or the I-Pad. My parents have both Apple and the Kindle Fire tablets and I feel Apple isn't that much better than the Nexus and the Fire is actually a pretty decent tablet.

Right now I'm leaning towards the Nexus 7 but the Surface also has my attention.

[SpecialQue]

Anyone recommend the Surface?

I'm looking for something I can surf the internet, watch videos, and do homework on (I take online and campus classes). So basically I need programs like Microsoft Word.

I just heard about this yesturday and I have been thinking of getting either the Nexus 7 or the I-Pad. My parents have both Apple and the Kindle Fire tablets and I feel Apple isn't that much better than the Nexus and the Fire is actually a pretty decent tablet.

Right now I'm leaning towards the Nexus 7 but the Surface also has my attention.

You have to pick your poison. The iPad is amazing for videos, and you do have the option of downloading a Google search app if you don't want to use Safari. However, typing on it is kind of a pain in the ass, and the Pages app is decent at best. Surface comes with Word and the keyboard is much more user-friendly for doing school work, but you're stuck with Explorer and video playback is kind of "eh."

[IGOTGAME]

The Real Surface is coming out Feb. 9, BE READY!

http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/surface-windows-8-pro-february-9-release-additional-details-and-accessories?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

Guess what,Microsoft is including the Type cover with the tablet!!

64 GB for 899.00
128 GB for 999.00

[embersyc]

The Real Surface is coming out Feb. 9, BE READY!

http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/surface-windows-8-pro-february-9-release-additional-details-and-accessories?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

Guess what,Microsoft is including the Type cover with the tablet!!

64 GB for 899.00
128 GB for 999.00

****ers.

They lost me, I bought the Sony Vaio Duo 11, 1 1/2 months ago because I was sick of waiting.

http://cdn4.mos.techradar.futurecdn.net//art/laptops/Sony/Sony%20Vaio%20Duo%2011/Sony%20Vaio%20Duo%2011%20two-580-90.jpg

[IGOTGAME]

****ers.

They lost me, I bought the Sony Vaio Duo 11, 1 1/2 months ago because I was sick of waiting.

http://cdn4.mos.techradar.futurecdn.net//art/laptops/Sony/Sony%20Vaio%20Duo%2011/Sony%20Vaio%20Duo%2011%20two-580-90.jpg

That sucks. But, I've heard really good things about that as well.

[embersyc]

That sucks. But, I've heard really good things about that as well.

I have no complaints with it, in fact it's probably the best computer I've ever owned, and this from a guy building his own PCs the past 20 years. It looks I have more ram than the Surface anyways.

Edit: well I guess I do have one complaint, if you Skype with it in "laptop mode" the camera is pointed at the ceiling, but I'm sure the Surface probably has the same problem.

[Rose]

The Real Surface is coming out Feb. 9, BE READY!

http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/surface-windows-8-pro-february-9-release-additional-details-and-accessories?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

Guess what,Microsoft is including the Type cover with the tablet!!

64 GB for 899.00
128 GB for 999.00
Agreed with ember. Waited too long, and still costs way too ****ing much. Which is a damn shame because the windows 8 tablets I played with at best buy we're terrific. But I'm not paying 500+ for a tablet that may or may not get updated down the road, and more importantly...when I can(and did) get an ipad for 400

[IGOTGAME]

Agreed with ember. Waited too long, and still costs way too ****ing much. Which is a damn shame because the windows 8 tablets I played with at best buy we're terrific. But I'm not paying 500+ for a tablet that may or may not get updated down the road, and more importantly...when I can(and did) get an ipad for 400

Its not really in competition with an ipad tho. For me it was this or the Macbook Air. I am still not sure though. Kinda still leaning Air.

[Rose]

Its not really in competition with an ipad tho. For me it was this or the Macbook Air. I am still not sure though. Kinda still leaning Air.
Tablets aren't ready to replace pcs though. That's why I think you have to price it competitively. In 5 years? Definitely will be ready to replace. For basic stuff you can do it on a tablet. Just my opinion

With that said though I see why you think it's not designed to compete with iPads.

[embersyc]

Agreed with ember. Waited too long, and still costs way too ****ing much. Which is a damn shame because the windows 8 tablets I played with at best buy we're terrific. But I'm not paying 500+ for a tablet that may or may not get updated down the road, and more importantly...when I can(and did) get an ipad for 400

I don't think you did agree with me. I bought a $1200 tablet because I was sick of waiting. :confusedshrug:



Tablets aren't ready to replace pcs though. That's why I think you have to price it competitively. In 5 years? Definitely will be ready to replace. For basic stuff you can do it on a tablet. Just my opinion

With that said though I see why you think it's not designed to compete with iPads.

No, Tablets are ready to replace PCs. That Sony Vaio Duo 11 and Microsoft Surface Pro both will beast on any desktop PC that isn't running a SSD. They run full versions of Windows that you can run any Windows 7 or XP program in.

[Rose]

No, Tablets are ready to replace PCs. That Sony Vaio Duo 11 and Microsoft Surface Pro both will beast on any desktop PC that isn't running a SSD. They run full versions of Windows that you can run any Windows 7 or XP program in.
Can you install things from disc though, like software for classes? Obviously I know you'd need to borrow a pc's disc drive to do it...but yeah.

If so.:bowdown:

I was referring to them waiting to long to release the version that I would want. And that made me go somewhere else. The price thing was my own.

[rezznor]

Its not really in competition with an ipad tho. For me it was this or the Macbook Air. I am still not sure though. Kinda still leaning Air.
the mba sucks, i have it and i hate it.

[embersyc]

Can you install things from disc though, like software for classes? Obviously I know you'd need to borrow a pc's disc drive to do it...but yeah.

If so.:bowdown:

I was referring to them waiting to long to release the version that I would want. And that made me go somewhere else. The price thing was my own.

Gotcha,

As far as installing from disc, obviously these things are ultrabooks so they don't have disc drives, but I'm certain somebody out there makes an external USB disc drive if you are worried about it.

[rezznor]

Gotcha,

As far as installing from disc, obviously these things are ultrabooks so they don't have disc drives, but I'm certain somebody out there makes an external USB disc drive if you are worried about it.
you can always mount an iso to a usb..something an ipad cant do

[IGOTGAME]

the mba sucks, i have it and i hate it.

wow, never heard anyone say that about the air. what is so bad about it?

[IGOTGAME]

Tablets aren't ready to replace pcs though. That's why I think you have to price it competitively. In 5 years? Definitely will be ready to replace. For basic stuff you can do it on a tablet. Just my opinion

With that said though I see why you think it's not designed to compete with iPads.

idk, if you mount a surface pro to a monitor it is pretty like a desktop. So for the price of a Surface Pro you get a cool tablet, nifty little laptop and you can mount it to a PC screen.

[DukeDelonte13]

wow, never heard anyone say that about the air. what is so bad about it?


i own one and its phenomenal.

Disclaimer, i only use it for office software and internet browsing. Don't do any heavy duty stuff with it but that's not what the MBA is really designed for.

[rezznor]

wow, never heard anyone say that about the air. what is so bad about it?
ive got the 2011 model. it freezes up all the time (when using osx), the wifi sucks ass, ergonomics are horrid (that tapered lid is the dumbest idea ever if you are trying to use the laptop in bed), i hate the retarded OS (i can boot into windows, but it cuts down on the battery life)

any modern ultrabook would blow it away imo

i'll probably sell it and buy an ultrabook once the new haswell chips come out

[rezznor]

i own one and its phenomenal.

Disclaimer, i only use it for office software and internet browsing. Don't do any heavy duty stuff with it but that's not what the MBA is really designed for.
mine freezes up even when im trying to open a folder, not even trying to run a processor intensive program.

[Rose]

ive got the 2011 model. it freezes up all the time (when using osx), the wifi sucks ass, ergonomics are horrid (that tapered lid is the dumbest idea ever if you are trying to use the laptop in bed), i hate the retarded OS (i can boot into windows, but it cuts down on the battery life)

any modern ultrabook would blow it away imo

i'll probably sell it and buy an ultrabook once the new haswell chips come out
I'm curious as to what you're doing on osx, to make it freeze. (if it's safari my pro has been doing the same thing since the last update)

seriously? just a folder?damn.

[embersyc]

idk, if you mount a surface pro to a monitor it is pretty like a desktop. So for the price of a Surface Pro you get a cool tablet, nifty little laptop and you can mount it to a PC screen.

No to mention if it's like Duo 11, it probably has Intel WiDi built in. You can use your TV as a second monitor wirelessly if you you get a WiDi receiver (about $75). Or are lucky enough to own a TV with WiDi built in.

[rezznor]

I'm curious as to what you're doing on osx, to make it freeze. (if it's safari my pro has been doing the same thing since the last update)

seriously? just a folder?damn.
that's the thing..this was happening since day one. granted it doesnt freeze everytime, but it will for simple random things
. i've even wiped it and reinstalled lion fresh.

[bigkingsfan]

Surface RT sold like shit, most people do not like windows 8 and unwillingly to switch over. I don't like spending 1k for notebook in general, but at this point gimme the macbook air over this device.

[Rose]

that's the thing..this was happening since day one. granted it doesnt freeze everytime, but it will for simple random things
. i've even wiped it and reinstalled lion fresh.
That's the problem. Lion was as slow/stupid as Vista. I think the only thing that was good about that was airdrop. and maybe gestures.

[embersyc]

Surface RT sold like shit, most people do not like windows 8 and unwillingly to switch over. I don't like spending 1k for notebook in general, but at this point gimme the macbook air over this device.

:confusedshrug:

RT is watered down, doesn't run legacy apps, etc... It was doomed to fail.

As far as Windows 8 goes, if you have a touchscreen there is nothing wrong with it. Once you are in desktop mode it's practically identical to windows 7 anyways.

[rezznor]

Surface RT sold like shit, most people do not like windows 8 and unwillingly to switch over. I don't like spending 1k for notebook in general, but at this point gimme the macbook air over this device.


you are supposed to compare RT to an ipad and Pro to a MBA.

[andgar923]

That's the problem. Lion was as slow/stupid as Vista. I think the only thing that was good about that was airdrop. and maybe gestures.

Not to make excuses, but Lion has been universally hailed as a weak OS. I was having many issues with it as well. And it even gave users with new Macs issues, so it isn't that it only gave older Macs problems.

The worst was Safari, I loathed that shit. Most of the issues most people had were due to Safari. The main problem was the automatic refreshing, you could turn it off but then you had other issues and annoyances, that was the reason most people (including myself) moved to Chrome. The entire OS itself was shaky here and there, good ideas but not coded to work consistently. When it worked, it was beautiful (and was the case 98% of the time, except for the horrid Safari), but when it didn't it was annoying. Most of this was a result of the auto back up.

[andgar923]

you are supposed to compare RT to an ipad and Pro to a MBA.
YOu can get an Air for the same price (even slightly cheaper).

[rezznor]

YOu can get an Air for the same price (even slightly cheaper).
i know..and i would still prefer a Pro. (I have an RT and a MBA right now)

[Rose]

Not to make excuses, but Lion has been universally hailed as a weak OS. I was having many issues with it as well. And it even gave users with new Macs issues, so it isn't that it only gave older Macs problems.

The worst was Safari, I loathed that shit. Most of the issues most people had were due to Safari. The main problem was the automatic refreshing, you could turn it off but then you had other issues and annoyances, that was the reason most people (including myself) moved to Chrome. The entire OS itself was shaky here and there, good ideas but not coded to work consistently. When it worked, it was beautiful (and was the case 98% of the time, except for the horrid Safari), but when it didn't it was annoying. Most of this was a result of the auto back up.
Safari was shitty. And definitely made me switch to Chrome but that wasn't most of my issues.

-Finder froze alot.
-the iTunes issues I had were endless: No sound, then I couldn't stay signed into the iTunes store even while DOWNLOADING something. Apple told me to just reinstall it, and then after that I couldn't install it for a week+
-pages was sloooooooooow to open. (also iPhoto and mail)
And Skype was a headache to use as well. (it occasionally still is)

[blablabla]

Safari used to crash every 20 minutes on my old mb, i have mountain lion now and there's no issues with safari but my wlan is causing problems from time to time

[DukeDelonte13]

mine freezes up even when im trying to open a folder, not even trying to run a processor intensive program.
that's really ****ed up. Mine has never frozen, i never even have had to force quit a program. I've had chrome crash once or twice but that's about it.

[bigkingsfan]

:confusedshrug:

RT is watered down, doesn't run legacy apps, etc... It was doomed to fail.

As far as Windows 8 goes, if you have a touchscreen there is nothing wrong with it. Once you are in desktop mode it's practically identical to windows 7 anyways.
I don't have a touchscreen nor most people currently using a desktop/notebook setup. Makes no sense to upgrade the os to something that was designed for touch. They ****ed up badly on multi tasking. Can't run modern applications side by side or have multiple windows open on the same display :hammerhead:. I skipped Vista upgrade and will be doing the same to 8.


you are supposed to compare RT to an ipad and Pro to a MBA.
That's what I meant earlier and I'm not even an Apple fan. When it comes to productivity, the surface pro keyboard/touchpad is hideous in comparison and you have to buy it separately for another $130...

[The_Yearning]

MBA 2012 upgraded to 8ram with the SSD is speed demon fast.

Unless you're a movie producer or trying to do some crazy shit with your laptop, the MBA is a do all machine in addition to being exceptionally portable.

[embersyc]

They ****ed up badly on multi tasking. Can't run modern applications side by side or have multiple windows open on the same display :hammerhead:. I skipped Vista upgrade and will be doing the same to 8.


That's total BS. You can run metro apps side and side and have multiple windows open at once. Way to try something before jumping to conclusions.

As I said the entire Windows 7 experience remains intact, but whatever you clearly already have your opinion made up.

[bigkingsfan]

This is my setup on Windows 7 now. I have my TV tuner and 3 web browser open, all nicely stack on top of each other so I can the most of out my screen estate. Try replicating that with windows 8
http://i49.tinypic.com/29p3gaf.png

[IGOTGAME]

can't you just do that in windows 8 desktop mode?

[embersyc]

can't you just do that in windows 8 desktop mode?

Yep. And you can splitscreen between metro and desktop too if you wanna get really fancy.

[bigkingsfan]

can't you just do that in windows 8 desktop mode?
No, it's cumbersome and it's nothing like win 7. I tried doing that on my new pc with windows 8, couldn't and upgraded to windows 7 the following day.

[IGOTGAME]

No, it's cumbersome and it's nothing like win 7. I tried doing that on my new pc with windows 8, couldn't and upgraded to windows 7 the following day.

why was it cumbersome? seems like pretty much the same thing.

[embersyc]

No, it's cumbersome and it's nothing like win 7. I tried doing that on my new pc with windows 8, couldn't and upgraded to windows 7 the following day.

Now you are just making shit up. Do I need to screenshot if you for you?

[bigkingsfan]

Now you are just making shit up. Do I need to screenshot if you for you?
Go for it, make sure you stack some part of the windows on top of each other.

[embersyc]

Go for it, make sure you stack some part of the windows on top of each other.

Not sure why that is so important, but whatever.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v707/embersyc/multi_zpsd54bd8d9.jpg

[bigkingsfan]

I got the interfaced messed up, meant to say you can't do it with the newer one, believed it's called metro. I already have the classic setup with 7, there's no reason for me to go for 8 for the same exact thing.

[IGOTGAME]

I got the interfaced missed up, meant to say you can't do it with the newer one, believed it's called metro. I already have the classic setup with 7, there's no reason for me to go for 8 for the same exact thing.

yea, but everything is optimized and better for windows 8. Why wouldn't you use the better version of 7, Windows 8.

[embersyc]

I got the interfaced messed up, meant to say you can't do it with the newer one, believed it's called metro. I already have the classic setup with 7, there's no reason for me to go for 8 for the same exact thing.

Well I didn't say anybody had a reason to upgrade there current setups. I'm still running win7 on my desktop machine for the same reason, but personally I like the idea of having a tablet that is also a fully functioning PC. That is why I bought one. I don't like carrying multiple devices.

[bigkingsfan]

yea, but everything is optimized and better for windows 8. Why wouldn't you use the better version of 7, Windows 8.
I've seen the benchmark, I already have an SSD and i7 ivy bridge, any performance increase I get would be very tiny. My Windows 7 works perfectly fine with the other PC and devices in the house, the network works perfectly. I'd rather not build my network again because if I recalled Windows 7 did not play nicely with XP when I upgraded back in the days.

I'm not a fan of the missing start menu, yes I just know you can add it through 3rd party, but it's not the same because you'll have to manually setup shortcuts and such. I also doubt it would work it as well the native windows 7 start button.

I download a lot of games and apps for torrent, from reading the comments, it has a lot of compatibility issue, some people mentioned certain games wouldn't even boot on 8.

So I ask myself, what am I upgrading for? The headache far outweights the benefit at this point. Maybe once the system mature and more people adopt it.

[IGOTGAME]

I've seen the benchmark, I already have an SSD and i7 ivy bridge, any performance increase I get would be very tiny. My Windows 7 works perfectly fine with the other PC and devices in the house, the network works perfectly. I'd rather not build my network again because if I recalled Windows 7 did not play nicely with XP when I upgraded back in the days.

I'm not a fan of the missing start menu, yes I just know you can add it through 3rd party, but it's not the same because you'll have to manually setup shortcuts and such. I also doubt it would work it as well the native windows 7 start button.

I download a lot of games and apps for torrent, from reading the comments, it has a lot of compatibility issue, some people mentioned certain games wouldn't even boot on 8.

So I ask myself, what am I upgrading for? The headache far outweights the benefit at this point. Maybe once the system mature and more people adopt it.

tyft.

I'm such a non-power user that I didn't even consider these things.

[embersyc]

I've seen the benchmark, I already have an SSD and i7 ivy bridge, any performance increase I get would be very tiny. My Windows 7 works perfectly fine with the other PC and devices in the house, the network works perfectly. I'd rather not build my network again because if I recalled Windows 7 did not play nicely with XP when I upgraded back in the days.

I'm not a fan of the missing start menu, yes I just know you can add it through 3rd party, but it's not the same because you'll have to manually setup shortcuts and such. I also doubt it would work it as well the native windows 7 start button.

I download a lot of games and apps for torrent, from reading the comments, it has a lot of compatibility issue, some people mentioned certain games wouldn't even boot on 8.

So I ask myself, what am I upgrading for? The headache far outweights the benefit at this point. Maybe once the system mature and more people adopt it.

Eh I don't have any problem networking my 7 and 8 machines together, nor I have I personally found a game that didn't run. Although my 8 machine isn't a gaming monster like my desktop, I can run Diablo 3 and Civilization 5 on it fine, haven't tried others yet.

AS far as the start button, its not really gone, it's just different. You won't miss it after using it for five minutes. I bounce between 7 and 8 at home and my XP machine at work, and I think the differences between 7 and XP are greater than the differences between 7 and 8.

I'll add one final thought, I'm not telling anybody to upgrade their existing setup because I'm not upgrading mine, but for new machines Windows 8 is really great and revolutionary in my opinion and I've used just about every computer out there.

[rezznor]

'
Not to make excuses, but Lion has been universally hailed as a weak OS. I was having many issues with it as well. And it even gave users with new Macs issues, so it isn't that it only gave older Macs problems.

The worst was Safari, I loathed that shit. Most of the issues most people had were due to Safari. The main problem was the automatic refreshing, you could turn it off but then you had other issues and annoyances, that was the reason most people (including myself) moved to Chrome. The entire OS itself was shaky here and there, good ideas but not coded to work consistently. When it worked, it was beautiful (and was the case 98% of the time, except for the horrid Safari), but when it didn't it was annoying. Most of this was a result of the auto back up.


no way...that's impossible..Steve Jobs told me "it just works"

[JerryWest]

So should I buy this or what? :confusedshrug:

[code green]

I may not be a "power user" in terms of gaming, but I use my laptop constantly for torrenting, viewing media, building virtual networks on simulators for classes, interacting with people, etc. I made the switch from 7 to 8 a few months ago and actually think it's a lot easier to use. Like someone said, on Desktop mode, it's an exact replica of Windows 7. Sure, there isn't a start button, but just hit the Windows key and you have a dedicated start screen custom fit exactly how you prefer it. I run a lot of difference programs, emulators, and apps and have yet to find anything that won't run on it.

Just logging in with your Windows live account tying everything together is a great idea. It ties all of your e-mail and social networking together, so you could be doing something completely different, and every time you get anything from any of those services, a small box pops up on the corner of the screen giving you a notification and glimpse of what it says. Pretty convenient.

I was impressed with Windows 8 enough to switch over to that ecosystem and turned my Android phone in for a Windows 8 phone. It's still in its infancy, but I think Microsoft has some good things in store for it in the future, and recommend it to anyone.

[Rose]

64GB Surface Pro ships with just 23GB of usable storage, 128GB model has 83GB of space (http://news.yahoo.com/64gb-surface-pro-ships-just-23gb-usable-storage-200505076.html)


and from a different source:
“The 128 GB version of Surface Pro has 83 GB of free storage out of the box. The 64GB version of Surface Pro has 23GB of free storage out of the box. Of course, Surface Pro has a USB 3.0 port for connectivity with almost limitless storage options, including external hard drives and USB flash drives. Surface also comes pre-loaded with SkyDrive, allowing you to store up to 7GB of content in the cloud for free. The device also includes a microSDXC card slot that lets you store up to 64GB of additional content to your device. Customers can also free up additional storage space by creating a backup bootable USB and deleting the recovery partition.”

Kinda surprised the OS took up that much, props to M$ for at least giving out 7gbs cloud storage.

[andgar923]

The new Pro is getting negative reviews all around.

From Engadget, Verge, and Ars Technica. Almost all of them are saying the same things for the most part.

Not good enough to be neither a tablet or a laptop, with many compromises. Almost all of them say it's close in some areas, but they don't recommend it.

Apparently you'd have to buy the larger version as well, you're better of buying a laptop.