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Let's Go: New $399 Microsoft Surface to challenge iPad

Dubai - It runs on Windows 10 and was made available for pre-orders on Tuesday.

Finding Microsoft's Surface devices too expensive (they are, in fact)? Satya Nadella and Co have just decided to make their signature machine one for all.
The technology bellwether on Tuesday announced the Surface Go, a toned-down version of its signature mobile computing line, yet promises not to compromise on power and performance.
And it also aims to challenge the dominance of an all-too-familiar for: Apple's iPad, especially in the education segment. Google's Chromebook should well also be on the lookout for this.
The device's price is way below the starting cost of previous Surface machines. It features a 10-inch screen, an integrated kickstand and is, keeping continuity and identity in mind, similar to the Surface Pro line's design. It runs on Windows 10 and was made available for pre-orders on Tuesday. Shipments have been scheduled in August.
"Making computing more personal and powerful matters the most to us. the Surface Go represents a new entry point for the Surface family," Onur Altintas, senior product marketing manager for Surface at Microsoft Middle East and Africa, told Khaleej Times in an e-mailed response to queries.
"Whether students in the classroom or professionals on the business frontline, the Surface Go has the power, portability, performance and versatility to offer a premium experience with incredible value."
There are two models available, one in a 4GB/64GB RAM/storage combo, while the other in 8GB/128GB. They will be priced at $399 (Dh1,465) and $549 (Dh2,010), respectively. Microsoft also finally decided to add a USB Type-C port, a first for Surface tablets.
"The 2-in-1 device, weighing nearly 500 grammes, supports inking with the Surface Pen, a 3:2 custom calibrated display, a built-in hinge with full friction and type and mouse input support with Microsoft's signature type cover," the company said in a statement.

The light-weight device with a 4K monitor is powered by the 7th-generation Intel Pentium Gold Processor 4415Y, offering a nine-hour battery life.

"Our team worked closely with Intel to optimize power, performance and battery for the most critical tasks people perform every day," Panos Panay, chief product officer at Microsoft, wrote in a blog post.

The Surface Go also comes with Surface Connect for charging and docking, a headphone jack and a MicroSD card reader for storage expansion.

"Products would begin to hit the shelves on August 2. We're also happy to share that an LTE model will be arriving late," Panay added.

By comparison, the latest 9.7-inch iPad starts at Dh1,349, but only has 32GB of storage. Three optional accessories are available for the Surface Go, yet are all sold separately: the Signature Type Cover (from $99), Surface Pen (another $99) and Surface Mobile Mouse ($35).
Of course, prices are sure to vary when it comes to the UAE.
alvin@khaleejtimes.com