Microsoft Surface, the
technology giant's tablet computer, was launched on June 18 at a much-hyped press conference in Los Angeles.
The new tablet line includes a consumer device
aimed directly at the iPad, and another, larger machine designed to compete with lightweight laptops.
Both include a keyboard that doubles as a cover, and both will be powered by versions of the new Windows 8 operating system.
The launch marked a big strategic shift for the software giant as it
struggles to compete with Apple and reinvent its aging Windows franchise.
FROM THE MAGAZINE: Will beat Google in all markets: BallmerThe move breaks with Microsoft's operating model of the last 37 years, which has relied on computer manufacturers to make and market machines running Windows.
It could throw the world's largest software company into direct competition with its closest hardware partners such as
Samsung Electronics Co Ltd and Hewlett-Packard Co.
However, the success of Apple in recent years has underscored the benefits of an integrated approach to hardware and software, and Microsoft chief executive Steve Ballmer said that the company "didn't want to leave anything uncovered" as it rolled out Windows 8.
SPECIAL: Review of Micromax Funbook tabletThe new software is the
biggest overhaul of Windows in years, and features a new touch-friendly interface dubbed Metro. It is scheduled to be available for the Christmas shopping season.
The lighter, thinner version of the Surface tablet, built on an Nvidia Corp chip designed by ARM Holdings, will be the first to market at the same time as the general release of Windows 8, and will feature Microsoft's popular Office suite of applications.
It is comparable to the new iPad, heavier but slightly thinner. It has a 10.6 inch screen and comes in 32GB and 64GB memory sizes.
A second, heavier tablet aimed at the new generation of lightweight laptops called "ultrabooks", running on traditional Intel Corp chips, will come in 64GB and 128GB models.
SPECIAL: Our monthly pick of apps for tablets That will be available about three months after the ARM version, Microsoft said. The company gave no details on pricing except that it will be competitive with comparable ARM tablets and Intel-powered Ultrabooks.
They will be on sale online and in Microsoft's new stores in the US.
Making its own hardware for such an important product is a departure for Microsoft, which based its success on licensing its software to other manufacturers stressing the importance of "partners" and the Windows "ecosystem."
Sales of tablets are expected to triple in the next two years topping 180 million a year in 2013 and easily outpacing growth in traditional PCs. Apple has sold 67 million iPads in two years since launch.
With inputs from agencies
Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer unveils 'Surface' in Los Angeles on June 18. PHOTO: Associated Press 
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