Microsoft’s Surface Go tablet to challenge iPad
SAN FRANCISCO: Microsoft Corp is going for the low-end of the personal computing market with a smaller, cheaper Surface Go tablet that takes on Apple Inc’s cheapest iPads.
The Surface Go has a 10-inch screen, about the same size as the entry-level iPad.
At US$399 (RM1,596), the device was US$400 cheaper than the current Surface Pro tablet, but had slower Intel Corp processors and about four hours less battery time, said Microsoft.
The new tablet weighs 0.5kg, far lighter than existing Surface products.
It goes on sale on August 2 with WiFi connectivity. Cellular versions are coming later.
Like Microsoft’s earlier devices, the Surface Go will work with optional keyboards and mouses. The company announced cheaper versions of both accessories on Monday.
For the first time on Microsoft hardware, the Go will use the USB-C charging standard.
The new tablets come in multiple configurations, including 64, 128, and 256 gigabyte storage options and four or eight gigabytes of RAM.
Prices range from US$399 to more than US$549.
The sub-US$400 price point is key for Microsoft as it tries to turn its Surface business into a more serious challenger to other computer hardware makers.
Cheaper devices can attract students who get comfortable with the technology and spread it to the workplace after they graduate.
That strategy has helped Apple, which unveiled a US$299 iPad earlier this year for schools.