Microsoft Corporation MSFT recently added a new member to its Surface tablet family with the launch of Surface 3, the thinnest, lightest and a more-affordable laptop-tablet hybrid so far.
Similar to Surface Pro 3, Surface 3 also serves the purpose of both a laptop and a tablet but is smaller and offers a better battery life of up to 10 hours.
It runs on Microsoft’s Windows 8.1 operating system (OS) and can be upgraded to Windows 10 for free once available. The device also boasts a 10.8-inch full high-definition (HD) screen, new quad-core Intel INTC Atom x7 processor, 8MP rear and 3MP front facing cameras capable of 1080p video, speakers with Dolby Audio, 802.11ac Wi-Fi and good connectivity with USB 3.0, mini DisplayPort, a microSD slot, micro USB charging and a headset jack. Additionally, the tablet can be used as a stand-up monitor with the help of the three-position kickstand.
Moreover, Microsoft’s new improved Surface accessories such as Surface 3 Type Cover, four vibrant Surface Pen colors — silver, black, blue and red — and Docking Station for Surface 3 allowing consumers to easily connect to an external monitor and other desktop devices, will enhance the performance of the new tablet.
Starting at just $499, the tablet is already available for pre-order through microsoftstore.com, Microsoft stores8 and certain partner retailers in 26 markets, including the United Kingdom and the United States. Currently, the company plans to offer the Surface 3 in Wi-Fi only, while the Wi-Fi/4G/LTE versions will be available once the device is officially released in the first week of May.
Surface is a series of tablets produced by Microsoft to amalgamate its Windows OS with its own hardware. It has launched four Surface devices: Surface RT, Surface Pro, Surface 2, Surface Pro 2 and Surface Pro 3 prior to the launch of Surface 3.
Microsoft is battling to make a mark in the tablet market, which is at present dominated by Apple’s AAPL iPad and Samsung’s string of Android-powered devices. With the latest launch and its proficiency in business software, Microsoft expects to compete effectively against both Apple's tablets and its light-weight notebooks.
Moreover, with Surface Pro 3 Microsoft is targeting the schools and the businesses. We expect that the latest device will become a choice when schools and businesses decide to replace their laptops.
Currently, Microsoft carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). A better-ranked stock in the same sector is Interactive Intelligence Group Inc. ININ, sporting a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
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