New Microsoft Tablets and Accessories Arrive

Source: Microsoft

Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2 arrived on Oct. 22, 2013. In this illustration, the updated Surface 2 (left) and Surface Pro 2 (right) are shown. The two devices deliver higher performance than their preceding models.

Surface 2 (starting at US$449) joins the existing Surface RT, which will continue to be available at prices starting at US$349. Both devices are designed for Windows RT, the version of Windows for ARM processor-based tablets. Surface 2 will arrive with Windows RT 8.1, which will be available Oct. 18, 2013, preinstalled. Surface 2 includes a higher-performance Nvidia Tegra 4 ARM processor, 1920×1080 display resolution, and an updated exterior with a metallic finish. Device memory and storage options are unchanged.

Surface Pro 2 (starting at US$899) will replace the Surface Pro. It includes an Intel Core i5 Haswell processor designed to deliver higher performance while also providing better battery life. Surface Pro 2 display resolution is the same as the earlier model (1920×1080), but it can be ordered with up to 8GB of RAM and 512GB of solid-state disk (SSD) storage. With an optional docking station (US$199) available in 2014, Surface Pro 2 could provide a suitable choice for employees who would like tablets but require desktop performance and compatibility with Windows desktop applications.