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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
A view of the Microsoft's headquarters in Issy-les-Moulineaux, near Paris.

Microsoft has launched its own tablet called Microsoft Surface in an attempt to overtake competitor and partner Apple, and rival Google.

The company unveiled two editions - Surface for Windows RT and Surface for Windows 8 Pro - in Los Angeles, California, on Monday night.

Let's take a look at the tablet launched by Microsoft.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
Microsoft's Corporate Vice-President of Windows Planning, Hardware and PC Ecosystem, Michael Angiulo, holds the Surface tablet computer and keyboard during his presentation as it is unveiled in Los Angeles, California.

Surface is thin, light and it has a great battery. At 9.3mm, Surface for Windows RT is just thin enough to still sport a full sized USB port. Print, share, or charge your phone on the go.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
Microsoft representatives hold the Surface tablet computer as it is unveiled in Los Angeles.

Surface has a 10.6", 16:9 widescreen HD Display. Microsoft's ClearType HD Display technology delivers a great picture for movies.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
Surface tablet computers with keyboards are displayed at its unveiling in Los Angeles.

An ultra-wide viewing angle makes it easy for your friends to share in the vibrant experience.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
President of the the Windows and Windows Live Division, Steven Sinofsky, holds the Surface tablet computer during his presentation as it is unveiled in Los Angeles, California.

The auto-adjusting screen intensity delivers great visual clarity, indoors and out.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
Microsoft representatives show the Surface tablet computer to members of the media in Los Angeles, California.

The addition of the Micro SD card slot means you can bring your entire movie and music collection with you on vacation.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
A Microsoft representative holds the Surface tablet computer in Los Angeles, California.

Some activities call for a keyboard. Surface comes with an integrated Kickstand and a revolutionary, 3mm thin, pressure sensitive cover that doubles as a fully functioning keyboard and trackpad.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
A Microsoft representative scrolls the screen of the Surface tablet computer in Los Angeles, California.

Your Touch Cover connects to your Surface with a single magnetic click.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
The Surface tablet computer by Microsoft is displayed in Los Angeles, California.

Now you can chat with friends and respond to emails comfortably.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
Members of the media get a quick look at the Surface tablet computer in Los Angeles, California.

Surface has not just one, but two cameras. Use the front LifeCam to chat with the people that you care about.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
Microsoft representatives show the chassis of the Surface tablet computer to members of the media in Los Angeles.

The rear-facing LifeCam is angled to 22 degrees so you can flip out the Kickstand and record meetings and events hands-free.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
A photographer takes pictures of the Surface tablet computers on display in Los Angeles, California.

Stereo speakers and dual microphones tuned for Skype help you sound like you are right next door.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
Surface tablet computers are displayed in Los Angeles, California.

Surface was designed to be your go-to-device. It comes with a precision crafted VaporMg casing that protects the vital technology inside and leaves a high quality finish and feel.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
A Microsoft representative holds the Surface tablet in Los Angeles, California.

Touch Cover comes in five vibrant colours. Type Cover offers classic typing experience for those who prefer a more traditional keyboard.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
President of the Windows and Windows Live Division Steven Sinofsky, left; Corporate Vice-President of Windows Planning, Hardware and PC Ecosystem, Michael Angiulo; and GM of Microsoft Surface Panos Panay, right, hold the Surface tablet as it is unveiled in Los Angeles, California.

Pick the one that best meets your needs and represents your sense of style.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
President of the Windows and Windows Live Division Steven Sinofsky, left; Corporate Vice-President of Windows Planning, Hardware and PC Ecosystem, Michael Angiulo; and GM of Microsoft Surface Panos Panay, right, hold the Surface tablet as it is unveiled in Los Angeles, California.

The Surface tablets feature 10.6-inch touch-screens wrapped in a magnesium case that Microsoft calls VaporMg.

The distinctive feature of the tablets is a magnetically-attached, 3mm-thich Touch Cover that folds down and functions as a full touchscreen keyboard.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
Microsoft representative hands the Surface tablet to a member of the press in Los Angeles, California.

Surface RT tablet key specs:

i) Windows RT operating system

ii) Nvidia ARM CPU

iii) 9.3mm thick

iv) 676 grams/23.85 ounces

v) 10.6-inch ClearType HD Display

vi) 31.5 watt hour battery

vii) Ports: microSD, USB 2.0, micro HD video, 2x2 MIMO antennae

viii) Storage options: 32GB and 64GB for Windows RT

ix) Front and rear-facing HD cameras.

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Microsoft unveils Surface tablet to rival iPad

Last updated on: June 19, 2012 12:31 IST
Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer holds the Surface tablet in Los Angeles, California.

Surface Pro tablet key specs:

i) Windows 8 operating system

ii) Intel third-generation Core i CPU

iii) 13.5mm thick

iv) 903 grams/31.85 ounces

v) 10.6-inch ClearType Full HD Display

vi) 42 watt hour battery

vii) Ports: microSDXC, USB 3.0, mini DisplayPort video

viii) Storage options: 64GB and 128GB

ix) Front and rear-facing HD cameras