Well, it’s come and almost gone, the big day that All Things Digital called “a major watershed in the history of Microsoft.” What was the Big Damn Deal? Well, after a few minutes of teasing (TechCrunch’s live blog was the place to follow the announcement), Steve Ballmer confirmed what most of the rumors indicated: a new tablet.

Microsoft Surface will have a 10.6-inch screen with full HD display, a built-in cover that serves as a combination touch-typing keyboard and mouse trackpad (nice feature, there, Microsoft), a built-in stand, magnesium case, all in a package just thin enough for a full-size USB port. Software? Think full PC running Windows 8 Pro. Works with a digital ink pen. Available in 32-gig and 64-gig models for Windows RT and 64-gig and 120-gig models for Windows Pro.

CNN Money said that Microsoft’s tablet needed to dazzle. User tests to come (along with release date and pricing) by those who do that sort of thing, of course, but on the face of the announcement alone it sure sounds like they did their damnedest to make sure it does.

This entry was posted on Monday, June 18th, 2012 at 7:42 pm and is filed under Internet Stuff, Marketing Stuff.