Microsoft announces new, more affordable Surface Go tablet-PC
Microsoft, in a bid to get back into the tablet game, is introducing a cheaper variant of its hugely popular Surface series tablet-PCs. Dubbed the Surface Go, Microsoft's new 10-inch tablet-PC starts at just $399, and comes with the Surface Pro's signature kickstand, magnesium body, and supports similar accessories including the signature type cover, and pen. Here's more on the new device.
The Surface Go reflects no change in Microsoft's design policy
The Surface Go reflects no change in Microsoft's design philosophy, with the new tablet looking just like a smaller version of the Surface Pro. Like the Pro, the Surface Go also has rather large bezels surrounding its screen, and although the bezels offer the functionality of attaching a wide keyboard, and for holding the tablet, the design does look dated compared to latest iPads.
Details about the display and other external features
The Surface Go has a 10-inch diagonal display with a 3:2 aspect ratio display (1800x1200 resolution), and the bright, high-resolution display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass. The tablet's rear kick-stand extends to 165 degrees, and the Surface Go comes with a Windows Hello camera for facial recognition-based unlocking, two front-facing speakers, an 8MP rear camera, magnetic attachment for a stylus pen, etc.
The Surface Go will come with a full Microsoft package
The Surface Go will come with Windows 10 Home in S mode ('streamlined' mode i.e. only Windows apps can be used). However, users can freely switch to Windows 10's full-version. The Surface Go will also offer Microsoft's full Office productivity suite. Accessories like the signature type cover, Surface stylus pen, and the Surface Mobile Mouse are priced at $129, $99, and $34.99, respectively.
Specifications of the device, and pricing
For now, Microsoft will release two Wi-Fi-based variants of the Surface Go - the entry-level 4GB RAM/64GB SSD variant, priced at $399, and an 8GB RAM/128GB SSD variant priced at $549. The Surface Go, which goes on sale on 2nd August, will come with Intel's dual-core Pentium Gold 4415Y processor. Reportedly, Microsoft is also looking to launch variants with LTE support later this year.
