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Microsoft Announces Surface 3 Tablet
Microsoft unveiled the Surface 3 tablet on May 7, 2015, at an event in New York City. The Surface 3 was positioned as a more affordable and versatile alternative to the Surface Pro line, targeting a broader audience of students, professionals, and casual users.
Key Features of the Surface 3 Tablet
The Surface 3 tablet boasted a range of features designed to enhance productivity and entertainment:
- 10.8-inch Full HD Display: Offering a vibrant and sharp viewing experience for both work and leisure.
- Intel Atom Processor: Providing sufficient power for everyday tasks, web browsing, and light productivity applications.
- 2GB or 4GB of RAM: Enabling smooth multitasking and efficient application performance.
- 64GB or 128GB of Storage: Offering ample space for files, documents, and multimedia content.
- Built-in Kickstand: Allowing for comfortable viewing angles and hands-free use.
- Integrated Front-Facing Camera: Facilitating video calls and capturing photos.
- Windows 8.1 Operating System: Providing a familiar and user-friendly interface with access to a vast library of apps.
- Optional Type Cover Keyboard: Enhancing productivity and providing a laptop-like typing experience.
- Optional Surface Pen: Enabling precise drawing, note-taking, and digital inking capabilities.
Target Audience
The Surface 3 tablet was targeted at a diverse audience, including:
- Students: Offering a portable and versatile device for taking notes, accessing online resources, and completing assignments.
- Professionals: Providing a compact and powerful tool for on-the-go work, email communication, and presentations.
- Casual Users: Delivering an enjoyable experience for browsing the web, watching videos, and playing games.
Technical Specifications
The Surface 3 tablet packed impressive specs, making it a powerful and versatile device for work and play. It offered a range of configurations to cater to different needs and budgets.
Processor, RAM, and Storage Options
The Surface 3 came with a choice of Intel processors, offering a balance of performance and efficiency. It was available with either the Intel Atom x7-Z8700 or the Intel Core m3-6Y30 processor. The Atom processor was ideal for everyday tasks, while the Core m3 provided more power for demanding applications.
The tablet was offered with different RAM options, allowing users to choose the amount of memory best suited for their usage. The options included 2GB and 4GB of RAM.
For storage, the Surface 3 offered a range of options, enabling users to store their files, applications, and multimedia content. Users could choose between 64GB and 128GB of internal storage.
Display Size, Resolution, and Touchscreen Technology
The Surface 3 featured a vibrant 10.8-inch ClearType Full HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels. This high-resolution display provided a sharp and immersive viewing experience, ideal for both work and entertainment.
The Surface 3 tablet incorporated a 10-point multi-touch screen, allowing for intuitive and responsive interaction with the device. This technology enabled users to navigate menus, scroll through documents, and interact with applications seamlessly.
Battery Life and Connectivity Options
The Surface 3 boasted an impressive battery life, enabling users to work and play for extended periods without needing to recharge. Microsoft claimed that the tablet could provide up to 10 hours of video playback on a single charge.
Connectivity was a key feature of the Surface 3. It offered Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to access the internet and connect to wireless networks. The tablet also included Bluetooth 4.0, enabling users to connect wirelessly to peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and headphones.
Software and Operating System: Microsoft Announces Surface 3 Tablet
The Surface 3 tablet is equipped with a robust software ecosystem that enhances its versatility and user experience. The operating system and pre-installed software provide a seamless blend of productivity and entertainment features.
Operating System
The Surface 3 runs on Windows 8.1, a familiar and widely used operating system that offers a user-friendly interface and access to a vast library of applications. Windows 8.1 provides a smooth transition between desktop and tablet modes, allowing users to switch between traditional desktop applications and touch-friendly apps with ease.
Pre-installed Software and Apps
The Surface 3 comes pre-loaded with a suite of essential applications, including:
- Microsoft Office: The Surface 3 includes a free trial of Microsoft Office 365 Personal, offering access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Outlook. Users can choose to purchase a full subscription for continued access to these productivity tools.
- Internet Explorer: The Surface 3 features the latest version of Internet Explorer, providing a reliable and secure web browsing experience.
- Windows Store: The Windows Store offers a vast selection of apps designed for Windows 8.1, including productivity tools, entertainment apps, and games.
- Skype: Pre-installed Skype allows users to make voice and video calls, send instant messages, and share files with friends and colleagues.
- OneDrive: OneDrive, Microsoft’s cloud storage service, is integrated into the Surface 3, allowing users to access their files from any device.
Compatibility with Microsoft Office Applications
The Surface 3 offers excellent compatibility with Microsoft Office applications. The pre-installed Office 365 Personal trial provides users with a familiar and powerful set of productivity tools. The Surface 3’s touchscreen and keyboard make it ideal for creating documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and managing emails. Furthermore, users can access a wider range of Office applications through the Windows Store, including specialized tools for specific industries and tasks.
Design and Aesthetics
The Surface 3 tablet boasts a sleek and modern design, echoing the aesthetics of its predecessors while incorporating refined features that enhance both functionality and visual appeal. Microsoft has meticulously crafted a device that is not only visually pleasing but also comfortable to hold and use.
Materials and Construction
The Surface 3 tablet’s exterior is constructed from a combination of durable and high-quality materials. The back cover is made from a magnesium alloy, which provides a solid feel and excellent structural integrity. This material choice contributes to the tablet’s lightweight design while ensuring its resilience against everyday wear and tear. The front of the device features Corning Gorilla Glass 3, offering protection against scratches and accidental drops. This robust glass panel enhances the viewing experience, delivering vibrant colors and sharp visuals.
Color Options
The Surface 3 tablet is available in two classic color options:
- Silver: The silver option exudes a professional and sophisticated aesthetic, blending seamlessly into various environments. It’s a timeless choice that complements both personal and professional use.
- Blue: The blue option adds a touch of vibrancy and personality to the design. It’s a refreshing alternative for those seeking a device that reflects their individual style.
Pricing and Availability
The Surface 3 was priced competitively to appeal to a wide range of users, aiming to provide a compelling alternative to traditional laptops and other tablets.
The Surface 3’s pricing strategy aimed to position it as a value-oriented option compared to its predecessors and other high-end tablets.
Pricing
The Surface 3 was launched with a starting price of $499 for the base model, which included 64GB of storage and 2GB of RAM.
- A higher-end configuration with 128GB of storage and 4GB of RAM was available for $599.
These prices were considered competitive, particularly when compared to other high-end tablets like the iPad Air 2, which started at $499 for the 16GB model.
Availability
The Surface 3 was released in May 2015 and was available for purchase through Microsoft’s online store, major retailers, and authorized resellers.
The tablet’s availability was strategically timed to coincide with the summer season, a period typically associated with increased consumer spending on electronics.
Competition and Market Landscape
The Surface 3 faced a competitive landscape filled with established players vying for a share of the tablet market. Its success hinged on its ability to differentiate itself from the competition and appeal to a specific audience.
Key Competitors and Their Offerings
The Surface 3 primarily competed with other 2-in-1 devices and high-end tablets, each offering unique features and targeting specific user needs. Some of the key competitors included:
- Apple iPad Air 2: Known for its sleek design, intuitive iOS operating system, and extensive app ecosystem. It offered a strong multimedia experience and a wide range of productivity apps.
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S2: Featured a vibrant AMOLED display, a powerful processor, and a lightweight design. It catered to both entertainment and productivity needs, with support for Samsung’s S Pen stylus.
- Microsoft Surface Pro 3: A more powerful and premium version of the Surface 3, offering a higher-resolution display, a more robust processor, and a dedicated graphics card. It was targeted towards professionals and power users.
- Lenovo Yoga 2 Pro: A 2-in-1 device with a 360-degree hinge, allowing for multiple usage modes. It featured a high-resolution display, a powerful processor, and a comfortable keyboard.
- HP Spectre x2: Another 2-in-1 device with a premium design and a powerful processor. It offered a vibrant display, a comfortable keyboard, and a long battery life.
Comparison of Features and Specifications
The Surface 3 competed with its rivals by offering a balance of features and specifications:
| Feature | Surface 3 | iPad Air 2 | Galaxy Tab S2 | Surface Pro 3 | Yoga 2 Pro | Spectre x2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 8.1 | iOS | Android | Windows 8.1 | Windows 8.1 | Windows 8.1 |
| Processor | Intel Atom x7-Z8700 | Apple A8X | Exynos 5433 | Intel Core i5-4300U | Intel Core i5-4200U | Intel Core i5-5200U |
| RAM | 2GB/4GB | 2GB | 3GB | 4GB/8GB | 8GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 64GB/128GB | 16GB/64GB/128GB | 16GB/32GB/64GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB | 128GB/256GB | 256GB |
| Display | 10.8-inch, 1920×1280 | 9.7-inch, 2048×1536 | 9.7-inch, 2048×1536 | 12-inch, 2160×1440 | 13.3-inch, 3200×1800 | 13.3-inch, 3200×1800 |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours | Up to 10 hours | Up to 10 hours | Up to 9 hours | Up to 8 hours | Up to 9 hours |
| Weight | 0.64 kg | 0.43 kg | 0.39 kg | 0.8 kg | 1.3 kg | 1.1 kg |
| Price | $499 | $499 | $399 | $799 | $1,199 | $1,299 |
The Tablet Market Landscape
The tablet market was a dynamic landscape, with a variety of players competing for a share of the market. The Surface 3 targeted a niche within this market, aiming to bridge the gap between traditional tablets and laptops. It aimed to provide users with a versatile device that could be used for both productivity and entertainment.
The Surface 3’s position within the market was characterized by:
- Hybrid Functionality: Its 2-in-1 design offered a unique combination of tablet portability and laptop productivity, appealing to users seeking versatility.
- Windows Ecosystem: Running Windows 8.1, it provided access to a vast library of desktop applications, making it suitable for professionals and power users.
- Competitive Pricing: Its pricing positioned it as a more affordable option compared to its more powerful sibling, the Surface Pro 3, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Potential Impact and Reception
The Surface 3’s release was met with mixed reactions, with some praising its performance and versatility while others found its price point to be a barrier to entry. The tablet aimed to bridge the gap between productivity and entertainment, appealing to both professionals and casual users.
Initial Reception and Reviews
Initial reception of the Surface 3 was generally positive, with many reviewers commending its performance and features. The tablet was praised for its sleek design, comfortable keyboard, and responsive touch screen. However, some critics found the Surface 3’s price to be a deterrent, particularly when compared to other tablets in the market.
- The Verge, in their review, highlighted the Surface 3’s portability and performance, stating that it was “a great tablet for people who want a device that can handle both work and play.”
- CNET found the Surface 3 to be a “solid all-around tablet” with a “great keyboard and a surprisingly long battery life.”
- TechRadar, while acknowledging the Surface 3’s strengths, expressed concerns about its price point, suggesting that it might be too expensive for some users.
Impact on the Tablet Market, Microsoft announces surface 3 tablet
The Surface 3 had a limited impact on the tablet market, primarily due to its high price point and the growing popularity of Android and iOS tablets. While it garnered attention for its productivity features and Windows operating system, it did not significantly disrupt the existing market landscape.
- The Surface 3’s arrival coincided with the increasing popularity of affordable Android tablets, which offered a similar user experience at a lower price point.
- The tablet’s performance and features were also overshadowed by the release of the iPad Air 2, which offered a superior user experience and a wider selection of apps.
Microsoft announces surface 3 tablet – The Surface 3 marked a significant step forward for Microsoft’s tablet ambitions, demonstrating their commitment to delivering a compelling alternative to the iPad and other leading tablets. While it might not have achieved the same level of mainstream success as its predecessors, the Surface 3 undoubtedly left its mark on the tech landscape, paving the way for future iterations of the Surface line.
Microsoft’s announcement of the Surface 3 tablet has sparked excitement, but some fans are wondering if the new device will be enough to sway gamers away from the Xbox One. While the Surface 3 boasts impressive specs, it’s important to remember that the upcoming Titanfall sequel, titanfall sequel not exclusive to microsoft , will be available on multiple platforms.
This means that gamers won’t be limited to Microsoft’s ecosystem for their Titanfall fix, potentially impacting the Surface 3’s appeal to the gaming community.