Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) finally unveiled the reason behind the "secret event" that they revealed a few days ago as the company revealed a new Windows 8 tablet in the market. This is Microsoft's first forray in the tablet market.

This new tablet's name is "Surface" and there would be two new versions available in the market. Steve Ballmer, the CEO of Microsoft remarked that the tablets that the company will be launching are actually PCs because it is based on their newest OS, Windows 8. He was also quoted stating "The Surface is a PC...a tablet..and a new experience."

Surface: Specifications and Features

Operating Software: Windows RT

  • Processor: Nvidia ARM processor
  • Weight: 676g
  • Thinness: 9.3mm
  • Display: 10.6-inch ClearType HD Display
  • Battery Life: 31.5 W-h
  • Features: Office Home & Student 2013 RT, Touch Cover, Type Cover
  • Connectivity: microSD, USB 2.0, Micro HD Video, 2x2 MIMO antennae
  • Storage: 32 GB and 64 GB
  • Accessories: VaporMg Case & Stand

Operating Software: Windows Pro

  • Processor: Intel Core i5
  • Weight: 903g
  • Thinness: 13.5mm
  • Display: 10.6-inch ClearType HD Display
  • Battery Life: 42 W-h
  • Features: Touch Cover, Type Cover, Pen with Palm Block
  • Connectivity: microSDXC, USB 3.0, Mini DisplayPort Video, 2x2 MIMO antennae
  • Storage: 64 GB and 128 GB
  • Accessories: VaporMg Case & Stand

Manufacturing a Windows 8 tablet is something that is not new to the market but this is the first time Microsoft has decided to formally enter the tablet market. Apple is currently dominating the tablet market through its iPad line and so far, none of the competitors in the market have come close with this kind of success. Technological experts and analysts are divided when it comes to the success of "Surface" in the tablet market. Some experts are doubtful that Microsoft can directly compete with Apple in terms of tablets since the company has a big and loyal following.

There are also experts who are saying that price would be a crucial factor in determining the sucess of the Windows 8 tablet in the market. Carolina Milanesi, the Reasearch VP at Gartner expressed the same sentiment in her statement. Here is what she said regarding Microsoft's Windows 8 tablet:

"Microsoft can offer a competitive price for these specifications as it doesn't need to pay itself a licence for the Windows 8 software which other manufacturers will have to do, and that might make its PC and tablet-making partners unhappy. They seem to be be targeting a professional audience. So they are going head-to-head with Apple within the corporate sector. Price will be key - these devices won't be at the bottom end of the market. They will probably let other manufacturers fight over that space."

Microsoft has not yet announced the official price for the Surface but the company already disclosed that it will be officially released in the market after 90 days.