Microsoft has updated both versions of its Surface tablet, launching a new Surface 2 and Surface Pro 2. Pre-orders for both tablets started today at Microsoft’s online store.
The Surface 2, priced at $449, is the successor to the Surface RT. It is powered by Nvidia’s 1.7GHz Tegra 4 processor, which Microsoft says enables up to 10 hours of video playback. The Surface 2 is equipped with a 3.5 megapixel front camera and a 5.0 megapixel rear camera. The better cameras, combined with a new dual-angle stand, are meant to encourage video conferencing through Skype, which is owned by Microsoft.
The Surface Pro 2 is billed by Microsoft as “a true laptop replacement,” capable of running Office and all the apps from the Windows app store. It is powered by a fourth-generation Intel Core i5 processor, and Microsoft says the battery will last 75% longer than the battery in the previous Surface Pro. Like the Surface 2, it will be marketed with a Touch Cover for typing.
Both new Surface tablets are Wi-Fi-only, but Microsoft says it is working on an LTE tablet. Panos Panay, the company’s corporate vice president for Surface, revealed the plan on Reddit when asked why neither of the new tablets is LTE-enabled. Panay said the LTE tablet will launch early next year.
The new Surface tablets are not expected in Microsoft retail stores until late next month. They will arrive in time for customers to take advantage of the gift certificates Microsoft is offering through its buyback program, which offers store credit to people who trade in competitors’ devices.
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