Windows of opportunity as Microsoft bites at Apple

SOFTWARE giant Microsoft has unveiled a range of tablet computers it hopes will rival Apple’s iPad.

The touch-screen “Surface” devices will go on sale later this year and will run a new version of Microsoft’s Windows software which will be compatible with existing programs like Word and Excel.

They differ from iPads in having folding stands and magnetic keyboards, which can be removed for carrying. Two versions will be available, for “light” and “pro” users. Prices are expected to start at about £400.

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The announcement yesterday marks a rare move by Microsoft into the production of computer hardware. Previously it has licensed its software to other manufacturers, and last night there was speculation of a backlash from some of them, who will now have to compete with the giant.

Microsoft’s chief executive Steve Ballmer said the company wanted to give Windows “its own companion hardware”. But experts were split on whether the move would succeed.

Jon Milward of IT consultants Northdoor said the top-of-the range Surface Pro tablet would be aimed at business users and would give them “the convenience of a tablet and integration with their business systems”.

But Sarah Rotman Epps of the research firm Forrester said Microsoft was confusing consumers by offering too many options.

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“Too much choice is overwhelming. Apple gets this and limits iPad options to storage, and black… or white.”

The new Surface devices will compete not just with Apple but also with a raft of £150 Chinese tablets running Google’s Android operating system. Big-name manufacturers like Samsung also make Android tablets.

Apple continues to dominate the market, however, with an estimated 67 million tablets sold to date.

Many publications, including the Yorkshire Post, have started to publish dedicated iPad editions.

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