What to expect when Microsoft officially takes the wraps off its next-generation tablets on Sept 23.
The software giant has found its first year as a hardware manufacturer more than a little difficult.
Although the Surface RT and Surface Pro tablets both won praise for their attention to detail and build quality, they have so far failed to set the world on fire or offer a meaningful alternative to either the iPad or Nexus 7.
Still all of that could change with the new models, both of which are expected to offer better, full HD 10.1in displays and some nifty battery-preserving technology.
The smartcover — a detachable keyboard that also folds up to protect the device display when not in use — is set to get its own rechargeable battery so that the devices will have two power sources when not plugged in.
The second-generation Surface Pro — which essentially runs the desktop version of Windows — is also set to get the latest generation of Intel Haswell processor, meaning faster, sharper graphics and response times without draining power, and a massive RAM upgrade of up to 8GB.
Externally, the new devices are expected to look almost identical to the existing models, except that they will also be available in white and their kickstands will have a minor tweak so that they can prop the screen up at two different angles.
Earlier this year, rumours and reports pointed to Microsoft offering its tablets with 7in as well as 10in screens.
Although Windows 8 has been reworked to support devices with smaller displays, the company is expected to continue focusing on the high end of the market, leaving space for its manufacturing partners — everyone from Acer to Sony — to offer more compact and cheaper slates.
However, for existing Surface owners and prospective owners alike, the biggest need is for a greater selection of apps. The Surface RT model in particular can only offer its owners roughly 10% of the titles that iPad and Android tablet owners take for granted. And until this deficit is addressed, Microsoft's tablets will remain a curiosity rather than viewed as a serious iPad competitor.
What's more, with Apple widely expected to unveil its next generation iPads as early as October, Microsoft is going to have to pull out all the stops to make sure that their devices make a prolonged, positive impact on the tablet-buying public. — ©AFP/Relaxnews 2013
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